Tag: Whats on TV

BBC’s ‘must-watch’ drama with Grantchester star is your next Netflix TV binge
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The BBC‘s hit drama series, The A Word, is just weeks away from arriving on Netflix – and if you like heartfelt dramas about complicated family relationships, then it might be one for you.

The drama, which ran for three seasons from 2016 to 2020, features a stellar cast including Morven Christie (Grantchester), Christopher Eccleston (Doctor Who) and Vinette Robinson (Boiling Point), and follows the lives of the Hughes family, whose youngest son is diagnosed with autism.

Not only does the series boast an impressive cast of stars, but it’s penned by BAFTA-winning Peter Bowker, who created the BBC’s hit war drama, World on Fire.

The drama has been praised for its raw and realistic depiction of a family coming to terms with an autism diagnosis, while also portraying the messy realities of parenting. A mix of drama and comedy, this beautifully-shot series won’t disappoint.

WATCH: The trailer for The A Word

Keep reading to find out more…

What is The A Word about?

Set against the idyllic backdrop of the Lake District, the series centres around the Hughes family, whose youngest son is diagnosed with autism and they “don’t feel like every other family anymore”.

© Everett Collection Inc / Alamy Stock Photo
Lee Ingleby and Max Vento star in The A Word

The synopsis continues: “They realise that if their son is ever going to communicate, they are going to have to learn how to communicate themselves. It’s a funny and thought-provoking series about parenthood and childhood.”

Writer Peter described the series as “full of ideas about parenthood, about disability, about communication, about community”.

“We have the opportunity here to make something funny, tough, realistic and inventive about contemporary family life and autism,” he said in a statement ahead of the show’s release. “In a society where imperfection increasingly comes with blame attached, it seems timely to look at how autism is regarded both within a family and the wider community – and to give some insight into how that experience might be for the child on the autism spectrum.”

Who stars in The A Word?

Morven Christie (Grantchester) and Lee Ingleby (Our Zoo) star as Joe’s mother and father, Alison and Paul, while Max Vento plays Joe.

Meanwhile, Christopher Eccleston (Doctor Who) plays Alison’s father Maurice, alongside Greg McHugh (Fresh Meat) as Alison’s brother Eddie, Vinette Robinson (Sherlock) as Eddie’s wife, Nicola.

© BBC
The series follows the lives of the Hughes family, whose youngest son is diagnosed with autism

Ralf Little (Death in Paradise) and Julie Hesmondhalgh (Mr Bates vs The Post Office) also appear as guest stars for a few episodes.

What have viewers and critics said about the show?

The series, which boasts a Rotten Tomatoes score of 89 per cent, has been hailed by viewers as a “wonderful” programme.

One person described the show as “the best drama I’ve seen,” adding: “I have just binge watched the three series over the past few days. Couldn’t stop watching it. It was so well acted by all. So believable.”

© BBC
Vinette Robinson and Greg McHugh also star in the drama

A second viewer described the show as a “must-watch for every family,” while another added: “Wonderful programme, wonderfully acted, wonderful locations, a tour de force.”

Meanwhile, the show was met with four-star reviews from critics, with The Hollywood Reporter hailing the show as an “absolute gem, delightful and thoughtful, serious, sad and also ridiculously funny,” while The Telegraph described the drama as “full of heart and warm humour,” in its three-star review.

How to watch The A Word

The A Word arrives on Netflix on 1 March. All three seasons are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

More dramas like The A Word
- There She Goes – This BBC comedy-drama follows the life of a severely learning disabled nine year-old girl Rosie and her family. The show is inspired by the real-life experience of writer Shaun Pye, whose daughter was born in 2006 with an extremely rare and to date undiagnosed chromosomal disorder.
© Photo: BBC
David Tennant and Jessica Hynes star in There She Goes
- Atypical – This heartfelt and funny Netflix drama follows a teenager on the autism spectrum whose decision to start dating girls has a butterfly effect on his family.
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Nicky Morris

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February 19, 2026
The Apprentice viewers confused after noticing major change to show

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Viewers who tuned into the latest episode of The Apprentice on Thursday night took to social media after noticing a change to the show’s format.

The long-running BBC series, which debuted its 20th season in January, sees 20 candidates compete for a chance to secure Lord Sugar’s £250,000 investment in their business plan, as well as his mentorship.

© BBC/Naked (A Freemantle Label)
Viewers noticed that the winning teams have not been rewarded

Over the course of the series, the candidates are split into teams and set weekly tasks, all designed to test their skills in negotiation, sales, marketing and leadership. The losing team faces Lord Sugar and his formidable advisors Baroness Karren Brady and Tim Campbell, who have been keeping a watchful eye over the teams and making notes on their performance during the tasks. At the end of the episode, one or more of the candidates is fired.

Usually, Lord Sugar rewards the winning team with a prize, such as a spa trip. However, viewers have noticed the winning teams of the latest season have yet to be treated so far.

WATCH: Did you watch The Celebrity Apprentice Christmas Special?

What have viewers said about the latest episode?

Taking to social media, viewers questioned why the winning team hadn’t received a reward. One person wrote: “Just thinking – no reward for winning a task this series,” while another asked: “Why doesn’t the winning team get a reward anymore?”

© BBC/Naked (A Freemantle Label)
The long-running show debuted its 20th season in January

A third viewer penned: “Wait the winning team doesn’t get a reward anymore?! #TheApprentice,” while another asked: “#TheApprentice Why aren’t the winners getting a prize experience this year?”

At the end of episode one, Lord Sugar didn’t explicitly tell the winning team that he was withdrawing their reward, but he did call their performance a “disgrace”.

© BBC / FremantleMedia Ltd
Candidates compete for a chance to secure Lord Sugar’s £250,000 investment in their business plan

“Technically yes you’ve won, but I wouldn’t call this a win,” he said. “Quite frankly, it’s a total disgrace.”

Has Lord Sugar ever not awarded a winning team with a reward?

If the winning team hasn’t performed to Lord Sugar’s liking, he may choose to withdraw the reward. However, this doesn’t often happen.

One of the most notable instances took place in 2011, when Lord Sugar provided the two teams with a pallet carrying 250 pounds’ worth of wholesale goods and tasked them with reinvesting in the best-selling products.

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The series continues on Thursday nights on BBC One

While the winning team made a profit of £751, Lord Sugar was still disappointed with the performance of the group, who were fined for ignoring the rules about reinvestment. Subsequently, Lord Sugar cancelled their reward, which would have been a helicopter trip to the sporting estate Goodwood and riding in vintage cars.

The Apprentice season 20 continues Thursday 12 February at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

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Nicky Morris

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February 5, 2026
Heated Rivalry review: this steamy queer hockey romance sears your heart and leaves you clamouring for more

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For romance readers, male/male ice hockey stories are nothing new, thanks to huge successes like Icebreaker by Hannah Grace and Him by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy. But it’s Rachel Reid’s 2019 Game Changer series – and namely its second instalment, Heated Rivalry – that’s bringing the genre to a whole new audience.

Brought to life by Jacob Tierney and Canadian streamer Crave, it’s also one of the best book adaptations I’ve had the pleasure of bingeing (more than once, I admit).

Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams in Heated Rivalry

Heated Rivalry begins in 2008 and follows two rookie ice hockey players, “Ottawa’s own” Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Russia’s Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), competing in the National Hockey League. Shane plays for the Montreal Metros while Ilya plays for their rival team, the Boston Raiders.

Both are formidable on the ice – Shane is unsociable, obsessively disciplined and has the highest hockey IQ in the game, while Ilya is cocky, a strong skater and knows just how to get under his opponents’ skin.

WATCH: Heated Rivalry Official Trailer

But it’s off the rink where Heated Rivalry truly comes alive. What begins as a lust-fuelled hook-up between sworn rivals gradually evolves into an emotionally charged, eight-year relationship that sears your heart and leaves you clamouring for more.

“Do I make you curious?” a steely Ilya asks Shane during one of their earliest encounters – and it’s a line that perfectly encapsulates the series. Enemies-to-lovers is a familiar trope, but Heated Rivalry offers something refreshing that even the most cynical romance viewer can’t resist.

© Sabrina Lantos
The show has garnered a cult following

Meeting up in secret after games, Shane and Ilya initially connect through sex – and there’s plenty of it, particularly in the first episode – but intimacy soon becomes their shared language when words and feelings feel out of reach.

Beyond hiding their attraction to the outside world – no active player in the NHL, both fictional or real, is openly out as gay – both men grapple with personal demons. For Ilya, it’s the crushing expectations of his Russian family, while Shane fights to maintain his Asian-Canadian role model image while slowly coming to terms with his sexuality. The result is a beautifully frustrating push-and-pull, fuelled by desire, fear and a whole lot of yearning.

© Sabrina Lantos Â© 2025
Christina Chang plays Shane’s mother Yuna

“The result is a beautifully frustrating push-and-pull, fuelled by desire, fear and a whole lot of yearning”

Yes, the sex scenes are a major talking point, but it’s the quieter, more tender moments that linger the longest – like when Shane cradles Ilya’s jacket like it’s the most precious thing in the world, or when Ilya strokes a hesitant hand to Shane’s bruised cheek. Even at its most explicit, the series handles intimacy with care – from the thoughtful choreography and lighting to Ilya’s constant verbal check-ins around consent.

Several scenes have gone viral, from Ilya’s Russian monologue (kudos to Connor Storrie’s accent) to an infamous club sequence accompanied by the now-viral song All the Things She Said by t.A.T.u. And that’s all before the widely discussed cottage-set finale, which has since inspired “I’m coming to the cottage” merch hats.

Fans of the book will be pleased to know that the show follows the dialogue closely, with just a few welcome tweaks to chivvy the plot along and flesh out some of the supporting characters like Svetlana and Rose. The overall production – from script to costume (shoutout to Ilya’s tiger shirt) and soundtrack – feels slick, lived-in and sophisticated despite the modest budget and mere 37-day run of filming.

© Sabrina Lantos Â© 2025
Sophie Nélisse plays Rose Landry while Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova is Svetlana

Much has been made of the show’s overwhelmingly female fanbase and what that reveals about what audiences actually crave from the romance genre. Perhaps it’s a portrayal of masculinity that feels softer, safer and more emotionally accessible – or the ease with which viewers can recognise themselves in both Shane and Ilya without complication.

Heated Rivalry has undeniably struck a chord, even inspiring people to focus on their fitness and reflect on their own romantic relationships. It’s giving viewers something they feel they haven’t seen before, and it’s utterly addictive. With seasons two and three already greenlit, all that’s left to say is: I guess I’ll see you next season.

Heated Rivalry is available to watch on HBO Max in the US and Sky and NOW in the UK.

Subscribe to our What to Watch newsletter to read HELLO!’s reviews early.

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Abby Allen

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January 12, 2026
Netflix viewers praise ‘gripping’ 8-part mystery thriller with Midsomer Murders star

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Netflix viewers who tuned into Run Away, the eight-part mystery thriller starring Gavin & Stacey‘s Ruth Jones and Midsomer Murders‘ Annette Badland, are hooked after all eight episodes landed on the streamer on New Year’s Day.

The new series, which is based on Harlan Coben’s 2019 novel, follows a father called Simon, whose world turns upside down when his eldest daughter Paige (Ellie de Lange) runs away from home.

You know you’re in for a treat when a project comes from Harlan Coben, whose novels have inspired major on-screen hits like Netflix’s Fool Me Once and The Stranger, as well as Prime Video’s Lazarus.

Having seen the first two episodes ahead of launch, I can say that fans of twisty mystery thrillers with a clever sleuth will find plenty to enjoy. The show fits neatly into Netflix’s growing catalogue of Coben thrillers, which tend to favour twisty narratives and morally complex characters. Plus, with a cast including James Nesbitt, Ruth Jones, Minnie Driver and Alfred Enoch, how can you resist?

WATCH: Run Away Official Trailer

Keep reading to find out what fans are saying about the new series…

© Ben Blackall/Netflix

What are viewers saying about Run Away?

The show has gone down a treat with viewers, who have hailed it as “excellent” and are bingeing multiple episodes in one go in true Harlan Coben style.

“Going on to episode 6, it’s brilliant!!” penned one viewer on Instagram, while another wrote: “We’re on episode two and we’re hooked.” A third added: “Watched three episodes so far… so gripping.”

© Ben Blackall/Netflix

Run Away’s Rotten Tomatoes score

While it’s still early days, the show is currently sitting at an 86% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

In its four-star review, The Standard wrote: “James Nesbitt just about manages to hang onto our sympathies as Simon, and the sheer amount of camp melodrama we get delivered will go down nicely with a glass of Pepto-Bismol. Ahh… remember to keep those eyelids open.”

Meanwhile, Variety wrote: “Full of shocking twists and turns and gruesome violence, which are par for the course with all of Coben’s works, the show is an entertaining maze from its opening scene until the close.”

© Ben Blackall/Netflix

What is Run Away about?

The series follows multiple interconnecting plotlines, but first centres on Simon, who was living a perfect life before his eldest daughter Paige ran away and everything fell apart.

The synopsis continues: “So now when he finds her, vulnerable and strung out on drugs in a city park, he finally has the chance to bring his little girl home. But it turns out she’s not alone, and an argument escalates into shocking violence.

© Ben Blackall/Netflix

“In the aftermath, Simon loses his daughter all over again, and his search to find her will take him into a dangerous underworld, revealing deep secrets that could tear his family apart forever.”

© Ben Blackall/Netflix

What did the cast say about Run Away?

Speaking to press ahead of its release, James Nesbitt said: “To play this part, and the relentlessness of it, was a privilege, but also to then have the relationship that Simon has with Elena [Ruth Jones’s character] was very important. And it kind of came, I think, at a good time for both of us, not only in terms of finding the parts that you were playing, but also because you just need to have a bit of enjoyment in it.”

When asked what it was like to work with James, Ruth added: “I hadn’t worked with Jimmy before and I was a little trepidatious about it because I’ve always been a big admirer of his work and think he’s a brilliant actor and I felt slightly fraudulent.

“But instantly we just seemed to click and I think it’s a really lovely on-screen relationship because, spoiler alert, it’s not a romance, but I think that’s quite refreshing.”

All eight episodes of Run Away are available to watch on Netflix

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Abby Allen

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January 1, 2026
Meet The Celebrity Apprentice Christmas 2025 line-up – from Sarah Hadland to Thomas Skinner

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The time has come for BBC viewers to journey back to the boardroom with the return of Lord Alan Sugar‘s Celebrity Apprentice. For this year’s festive special, 12 famous faces are competing to raise prize money for BBC Children in Need.

Split into two teams and told over two episodes, the celebrity candidates head to Lapland, the home of Father Christmas himself, where they are tasked with creating and marketing Christmas biscuits. But just like Santa’s elves, the celebrities have their work cut out for them as they attempt to impress Lord Sugar.

They are joined by Baroness Karren Brady and Mike Soutar, who steps in for Lord Sugar’s usual advisor Tim Campbell, who was unavailable due to scheduling conflicts.

So from TV presenters and actors to radio DJs and athletes, here’s the full list of celebrities taking part in this year’s Celebrity Apprentice Christmas Specials…

WATCH: The Celebrity Apprentice Christmas Specials Trailer

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

AJ is best known for hosting ITV’s Big Brother, Celebrity Big Brother and Channel 4’s Married at First Sight: Afters.

Reflecting on her experience, AJ summed it up in one word: “Magical,” she said. “Truly magical. Going to Lapland is a bucket-list experience for so many people, and I got to tick it off while being part of something that gives back. To combine that sense of fun, adventure, and teamwork with raising money for such an important charity, it doesn’t get better than that.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Broadcaster and podcaster Angela Scanlon

The Irish presenter is known for her turn on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023, co-hosting the Get A Grip podcast with Vicky Pattison and presenting shows including The One Show and Robot Wars.

Speaking about her experience on the festive special, Angela told the BBC: “[It was] absolute chaos from beginning to end, but the most joyful chaos I have had in my life in a while, just brilliant. Honestly, I felt like I was back at school doing some sort of weird transition year project, which we were all ill-equipped for, but you know, no less committed. So yeah, brilliant. Absolutely loved it! Now go and buy our biscuit!”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Radio 1 DJ Charlie Hedges

Charlie is part of the BBC Radio 1 trio Rickie, Melvin and Charlie and has also presented Dance Anthems on Radio 1 Dance.

Explaining the “once in a lifetime experience”, Charlie said: “I’m so grateful to have been asked to do this for Children in Need. I cannot tell you how grateful I am. I feel blessed that I was a part of the experience and also just to have an insight into The Apprentice. As a viewer, I watch the show and it’s just mesmerising. So it was amazing to watch what goes on behind the scenes and how everyone works. And actually I think the production team needs a massive big-up because they’re some of the very best people I’ve ever worked with.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Comedian Eddie Kadi

Fresh from the jungle on I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, Eddie is also a stand-up comedian and presenter on BBC Radio 1Xtra.

Eddie called his stint on The Celebrity Apprentice “one of the best moments of my career”, before adding: “I certainly didn’t expect the hospitality, the way we were looked after, the fun that we had. Karren, Mike and Lord Sugar were so kind. For me, it’s something I will hold dear because I made some really, really good friends out of it as well. Which is what is it is all about.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Actor Jake Wood

Best known as Max Branning on EastEnders, Jake also co-hosts the boxing podcast Pound For Pound with Spencer Oliver.

“I’ve met Lord Sugar a couple of times before, so I felt at an advantage really,” said Jake. “So I wasn’t as intimidated as some of the others, I would maybe say. But of course going into that boardroom is iconic and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to be sat there with the whole team and to go through the full process that they actually go through on the show, and to get an insight into the reality of designing a product and the packaging and the name and the jingle in the TV advert, to do all of those things was amazing.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Singer and TV presenter JB Gill

Best known as one quarter of the boy band JLS, JB first found fame on The X Factor back in 2008, before the band split in 2013. Now, he enjoys life on a farm in Kent and has presented Down on the Farm (2015) and Songs of Praise (2017).

Reflecting on his approach to the festive special, JB said: “I can’t say I was scared of Lord Sugar himself, but I had no idea what to expect. His reputation precedes him. But I ultimately wanted to get the best product or complete the task in the best fashion. So it was all very much an open book, let me go in there, see what it is, do what I do best, and be myself, and then we’ll see what happens.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Paralympic athlete Kadeena Cox

Kadeena is a successful parasport athlete, having won two gold medals at the 2016 Summer Paralympics for C4-5 cycling and T38 sprint. In 2021, she braved the jungle on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! and became the winner of the sixteenth series of BBC’s Celebrity MasterChef.

Speaking about when she received the news that she’d be on Celebrity Apprentice, Kadeena said she felt “predominantly excited because it was for Children in Need, which is such a massive charity and something I celebrate every year and try to be a part of that.”

She continued: “Plus, the show is amazing, it’s so well known. And honestly, a part of me just wanted to be fired by Lord Sugar. I wanted the finger pointed at me!”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Gladiators’ Legend Matt Morsia

Matt, who operates as Legend on the BBC’s Gladiators, is a bodybuilder and fitness coach, best known for his over-confident alter-ego on the endurance sports game show.

His trademark confidence seems to have carried over into his game plan for the boardroom, as he said: “The Apprentice is an iconic show and ultimately I knew I’d be good at it, so it felt like the perfect opportunity to showcase my entrepreneurial ability. The fact it’s for Children in Need was a huge bonus. To have a great time, win a competition and raise a lot of money for such a great cause is pretty incredible.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Barrister and TV presenter Rob Rinder

TV star and barrister Rob is best known for fronting Judge Rinder, as well as co-hosting BBC’s travel show Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour alongside Rylan Clark.

When asked why he chose to go on Celebrity Apprentice, Rob revealed: “Because normally I’m the one doing the firing or at least the sentencing. I thought it was time to sit on the other side of the table, where the worst that can happen is Lord Sugar’s withering pronouncement that ‘you’re fired,’ not ten years at Her Majesty’s pleasure.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Actress Sarah Hadland

Miranda actress and chummy Sarah is best known for starring opposite Miranda Hart on the hit sitcom, as well as competing on Strictly in 2024 with her professional dance partner Vito Coppola.

Sarah admitted she was nervous going into the process, explaining: “At one point Tom [Skinner] said, ‘We’re all businesspeople here,’ and I thought, ‘I’m not! Please don’t ask me what business I have’. Nothing, the business of show, Lord Sugar! It’s definitely not my comfort zone, my instinct is to make things funny. I did barrel in on the first day and said, ‘Hello!’. All three of them looked at me like I was mad. Quite quickly you realise you have got to have serious answers.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Comedian Shazia Mirza

Shazia is a British comedian, actress and writer, best known for being a panellist on Channel 5’s The Wright Stuff and appearing on Channel 4’s Celebrity The Island with Bear Grylls and SAS: Who Dares Wins.

A long-time fan of the show, Shazia explained why she said yes: “Because it was for Children in Need, so it was for charity and I wanted to do that. And also I’ve watched the show for a very, very, very long time and I’ve always found it very funny. So I thought, I think this could be a really funny thing to do.”

© BBC/Naked/Matt Crossick

Businessman and TV personality Tom Skinner

From the Strictly ballroom to Lord Sugar’s boardroom, Tom first appeared on the civilian version of The Apprentice back in 2019, and recently appeared on Strictly Come Dancing with his professional partner Amy Dowden.

Speaking on his return, Tom said: “Look, I absolutely loved going on The Apprentice. The process, the first time I went on it back in 2019, it changed my life, completely changed my life. I got married since, I’ve got three beautiful children, and I’ve got so much to thank the show and the producers and everyone from that experience, and it’s just an honour to be able to come back and this time have a bit of fun and raise some money for Children in Need.”

The first-ever full-length series of The Celebrity Apprentice is coming to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in 2026.

Where to watch The Celebrity Apprentice Christmas Specials

The Celebrity Apprentice Christmas Specials land on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December from 9 pm.

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Abby Allen

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December 29, 2025
BBC’s ‘brilliantly addictive’ 6-part drama is trending now

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The BBC‘s latest scandal-filled drama has arrived on TV screens, and it’s currently climbing BBC iPlayer’s ‘Most Popular’ chart. The six-part series, Wild Cherry, is created and penned by Nicôle Lecky, known for her BAFTA-winning drama Mood, and follows ultra-rich families living in the gated community of Richford Lake. Eve Best (House of the Dragon) and Carmen Ejogo (True Detective) star as two mothers whose friendship is tested when their daughters become wrapped up in a shocking scandal.

With plenty of glamour, high-stakes tension and teen drama, it’s no wonder that the series is being compared to shows like Gossip Girl and Desperate Housewives. Keep reading for all you need to know about the new series, including what viewers have said about the show.

© BBC/Firebird/Natalie Seery

The series is set in the gated community of Richford Lake

What is Wild Cherry about?

Set in the gated community of Richford Lake, the series follows the seemingly perfect lives of super-mum Juliet (Eve Best) and business mogul Lorna (Carmen Ejogo). But when their teenage daughters, Grace (Imogen Faires) and Allegra (Amelia May), are accused of a shocking scandal at their exclusive private school, toxic secrets and lies ripple throughout the community.

The synopsis continues: “Wild Cherry is a coming-of-age drama for both mothers and daughters as they navigate privilege, power and social media. ‘Like mother like daughter’ rings loudly in a complex world, where danger and betrayal is never far from the surface – even in a perfect town.”

WATCH: The trailer for Wild Cherry

© BBC/Firebird Pictures/Natalie Seery

The series has been met with mixed reviews from viewers

What are viewers saying about Wild Cherry?

The series has been met with mixed reviews from viewers, with some left disappointed with the slow pacing while others hailed the first episode as “brilliantly addictive”. One person wrote on X: “If you haven’t started Wild Cherry, released today on BBC iplayer then you absolutely need to. It’s like nothing I’ve ever watched before. Imagine if desperate housewives was in the UK in 2025, but meets the show Clique with a sprinkle of Skins,” while another penned: “Binge watched over the weekend kept me guessing with all the twists and turns. BBC is on [fire] at the moment.”

A third viewer praised the performances from the cast, highlighting Louis Ashbourne Serkis, who is the son of actors Andy Serkis and Lorraine Ashbourne, writing: “Just binge watched #WildCherry and it was brilliantly addictive with plenty of valid points about the risks of #SocialMedia and #Influencers. Superb performances from everyone and particularly @LouisSerkis who is definitely becoming a versatile talent to watch,” while another added: “Wild Cherry last night was Fantastic, and #EveBest looked phenomenal.”

© BBC Studios/Lesley Edith

Eve Best and Carmen Ejogo star in the series

What have TV critics said about Wild Cherry?

The series received positive reviews from critics, with The Telegraph describing the show as a thriller that “tackles uncomfortable truths about parenting and teenage girls” in its four-star review, while The Guardian called the series a “fun, trashy thriller” in its three-star review.

© BBC/Firebird Pictures/Natalie Seery

All six episodes are available to stream on BBC iPlayer

How to watch Wild Cherry

All six episodes of Wild Cherry are available to stream on BBC iPlayer now. The first two episodes aired on Saturday 15 November.

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Nicky Morris

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November 18, 2025
Thomas Skinner breaks silence after Strictly elimination

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Thomas Skinner has broken his social media silence after becoming the first celebrity contestant to be eliminated from this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing. The businessman and social media personality went up against Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova in the dance-off during the first Results Show of the season. While Thomas and his dance partner, Amy Dowden, gave it their all with their Salsa performance, Chris and Nadiya’s Viennese Waltz ultimately won over the judges, with all four deciding to save the latter couple.

© BBC/Guy Levy
Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden became the first couple to leave the show

Taking to social media after the result, Thomas praised his dance partner and said he was “gutted” for her. He penned (via The Mirror): “Amy Dowden is one of the most amazing persons I’ve ever met. I loved every single second dancing with her. She is an absolutely wonderful person inside and out. She didn’t deserve to be out first, I’m so gutted for her that we went so early in the competition. I know dancing means the absolute world to her. Keep on shinning, Amy. Sorry our Strictly journey was so short. But you keep on shinning girl. You deserve the world. Bosh.”

On Monday morning, Thomas shared his appreciation for the support he’d received from fans online. “Back in the van for me this morning, it’s another busy one. Hope you all had a wonderful weekend,” he penned. “I’m catching up on my messages & emails this morning, so will be getting back to everyone who needs a new mattress. Also want to say a massive thank you to all the lovely messages of support I’ve had.”

The former Apprentice star continued: “It means the world! I know I was rubbish at dancing, but it was so much fun. But back to reality. You are ten times stronger than you can ever imagine… so don’t give up!! Keep on moving forward! Let’s go smash it today. New week, new day, new start. Don’t go home until you’re proud. Bosh.”

WATCH: Strictly Come Dancing’s most amazing perfect 40 dances

Thomas’ Strictly exit

During Sunday’s results show, judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood all chose to save Chris and Nadiya, meaning that Thomas and Amy won the majority vote and would be leaving the competition. Meanwhile, Motsi Mabuse, who was the judge with the deciding vote, said that she would also have chosen to save Chris and Nadiya.

© BBC/Guy Levy
Thomas and Amy went up against Chris Robshaw & Nadiya Bychkova in the dance-off

When ask by host Tess Daly about his experience on the show, Thomas said he “loved it”. “I’ve never danced before and my stay was short, but Amy’s amazing,” he said. “It’s been great fun and I’ve enjoyed it. I can’t really dance that well but I’ve had fun! Thank you, Amy – sorry that we haven’t done too good, ’cause you’re a different class.”

© CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston
Thomas praised Amy as “amazing”

Meanwhile, Amy said she’d “made a new friend for life” in Thomas, who she described as “adorable”. “There is a Ballroom boy in there, so I’m a bit gutted he didn’t get to do the Ballroom, but the last three years as you know have been quite difficult for me,” she said. “I lost all confidence as a dancer – but walking into the room with you with a massive smile and a laugh, you brought me back and, honestly, thank you.”

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Nicky Morris

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October 5, 2025
Loose Women removed from ITV schedule in last-minute shake-up

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Loose Women has been pulled from its regular Friday slot, following a last-minute shakeup from ITV. According to the broadcaster, the hit panel show, which typically airs at lunchtime, has been replaced by live coverage of the races at Newmarket. A one-off change, the races are expected to dominate ITV1 for three hours on Friday, after commencing at 1pm. Helming the coverage, Ed Chamberlin will take fans inside the BoyleSports-sponsored Rockfel Stakes, as well as supporting races, the Joel Stakes and the Princess Royal Stakes.

Part of a two-day event, Ed will also return on Saturday from 1.30pm-4pm to present further coverage of the Middle Park Stakes, the Cheveley Park Stakes and the Cambridgeshire Meeting, as well as racing at Haydock Park.

© Shutterstock
Friday’s Loose Women has been replaced by ITV’s live racing coverage

When is Loose Women back on TV?

As for Loose Women, our favourite panellists are expected to return on Monday afternoon, with the next episode scheduled to air at 12:30pm. Prior to ITV’s shakeup, fans last tuned in on Thursday afternoon, with Nadia Sawalha, Kaye Adams, Oti Mabuse and Judi Love on hand to discuss this week’s headlines. In an emotional segment inspired by Wayne Rooney‘s recent remarks that his wife, Coleen, was forced to “manage” him during difficult times, Nadia reflected on her own relationship with her husband of 23 years, Mark Adderley. Both Mark and Nadia, who share daughters Maddy and Kiki, have spoken openly about his experiences with alcoholism and depression, noting how they’ve affected both their relationship and family dynamic.

© Photo: Getty Images
Nadia Sawalha pictured with her husband Mark Adderley

Asked if Nadia felt that she had managed Mark in their marriage, the TV star said: “Yeah. I like to think more of supporting. I will do it as…Mark does have mental health issues, and I support him through that from a position of being so lucky that I don’t go through that. So when he’s very low, it can be very hard, but it’s not as hard as what he’s going through. So I will support him…I will…help him see pinholes of light when it’s very dark,” she continued.

Visibly tearful, Nadia added, “Sorry, I don’t know why I just got overwhelmed then. Sorry. I just have so much, you know I do, empathy for those who struggle with their mental health. It’s not just an easy swipe this or that. I am a rescuer, and when I met him, it took me a while to realise he had addiction problems. And him as well, he didn’t know. I’d already seen his heart and soul and his beautiful brain and all those things. If you say managing or rescuing, there was no choice because I was already there with who he was.”

As part of Thursday’s show, the panellists also invited Strictly star Ore Oduba to join them. In another heartfelt conversation, Ore revealed that he will be running the London Marathon to honour his late sister Lola’s legacy. Speaking about Lola, who identified as non-binary, Ore said: “‘It used to be the thing that scared me the most – to run the London Marathon in honour of my sister, they loved running, they struggled and then became obsessed with it.” Ore noted that the money raised will go to “Black people, queer people and women”.

Loose Women will return to ITV1 on Monday, 29 September at 12.30pm.

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Megan Bull

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September 26, 2025
Martin Clunes’s ‘gritty’ 3-episode crime drama is your perfect weekend binge

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Martin Clunes‘s compelling crime drama Manhunt has landed on Disney+, and fans of the detective genre might want to clear their weekend plans to binge-watch this one. The chilling series, which aired on ITV in 2019, sees the Doc Martin star portray real-life London Met detective Colin Sutton, as he investigates the death of French student Amélie Delagrange, whose body was found on Twickenham Green in 2004. Her death led to the manhunt and arrest of serial killer Levi Bellfield.

While Martin Clunes is perhaps best known for playing the titular cantankerous doctor in the medical comedy drama Doc Martin, I think his portrayal of DCI Colin Sutton is his best role to date. The actor is superb in this compelling series, which kept me glued to my screen over three consecutive nights upon its initial release in 2019. This series does not disappoint. Keep reading to find out more.

© ITV
Martin Clunes stars in Manhunt

What is Manhunt about?

The series dramatises the real-life investigation into the murder of 22-year-old French student Amelie Delagrange, who had been living in Twickenham for three months when she was killed in 2004. It was Sutton’s investigation that linked Levi Bellfield to two previous murders, that of 13-year-old Milly Dowler in 2002 and 19-year-old Marsha McDonnell in 2003.

The series is based on the memoirs of Colin Sutton, a former senior investigating officer with the Metropolitan Police. At the time of the show’s release, Colin said that everything was done with “full disclosure” to the victims’ families, and that he had “real encouragement” from some. “They knew the story of the effort that went into the investigation and how hard we worked,” he told RadioTimes.com, adding, “And it was the best we could do for them because we couldn’t bring their loved ones back, but you can treat them with decency and respect and do your best to bring the perpetrator to justice.”

© Photo: Rex
Martin plays real Met Police detective Colin Sutton

WATCH: The trailer for Manhunt

Are there more seasons of Manhunt?

There have been two seasons of Manhunt, the second of which aired in 2021 and is available to stream on ITVX. In the second instalment, DCI Sutton hunts down a notorious serial rapist and burglar whose 17-year reign of terror left elderly people living in south London fearing for their safety.

The show dramatises the manhunt for serial rapist Delroy Grant, who carried out a series of sex attacks on elderly people over a period of 17 years between 1992 and 2009.

© ITV/Shutterstock
The series is inspired by a real investigation

What have viewers said about the show?

The series was a big hit among viewers upon its release and was described as “gritty”, “terribly heartbreaking and completely compelling” on social media. One viewer penned: “This excellent drama is extremely well acted in the main role by Martin Clunes. It’s three parts and I watched all three together because it was so thrilling and exciting,” while another added: “Superb, real-life drama. Some great acting, brilliantly and delicately handled.”

Season one of Manhunt is available to stream on Disney+. Both seasons are available on ITVX.

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Nicky Morris

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September 19, 2025
Exclusive: Lesley Nicol reveals ‘exciting’ new chapter after Downton Abbey and the kindness of Highclere Castle’s owners after husband’s death

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Lesley Nicol has opened up about her “exciting” new chapter after Downton Abbey, which ends with its third and final film, The Grand Finale, after 15 years. The actress, who plays the no-nonsense cook at the heart of the bustling downstairs kitchen, Mrs Patmore, sat down with HELLO! for an exclusive interview, this time in a luxury Mayfair hotel, where she opened up about landing a role she’s been waiting years for, finding love later in life and the kindness of Highclere Castle owners Lord and Lady Carnarvon after the death of her husband.

Embracing a new chapter

As Downton closes its doors for the final time, Lesley is looking forward to swapping Mrs Patmore’s kitchen for London’s South Bank, having landed her first-ever role at the National Theatre in an adaptation of Noel Streatfeild’s beloved children’s novel, Ballet Shoes.

“I’m 72 and have waited a very long time to get offered a job at the National. I’ve always wanted to work there, so I’m thrilled,” the Manchester-born actress said.

© Carnival Films/Nick Briggs
Lesley Nicol plays Mrs Patmore in Downton Abbey

“This is a new chapter and it’s a good one.”

Lesley is embracing a new stage in her life in other significant ways, too. It has been three years since the death of her husband, David Heald, a spiritual healer who died unexpectedly at the age of 76 in May 2022.

“Without my husband, it’s horrible. But this is a new chapter and it’s a good one,” said Lesley, who recently starred in ITV’s powerful four-part drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office, playing real-life subpostmistress Pam Stubbs, who was wrongly accused of theft. “I’m moving house, I’ve got a new job, I’m fit and well, so it’s exciting.”

After David passed away, Lesley was invited to spend Christmas at Hampshire’s Highclere Castle, which provides the spectacular backdrop to Downton Abbey, by its owners, Lord and Lady Carnarvon, who first welcomed the actress and her husband to stay there after she opened the village fete in 2015.

© Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock
Lesley is starring in a new play at the National Theatre

“I was very touched by that, because we’re not intimate friends,” she recalled. “I thought: ‘That’s very brave; you could have this weeping woman for Christmas.’ Lady Carnarvon is very kind.”

“Things happen when they’re supposed to happen. Keep your heart and your mind open and see what’s coming next.”

Finding love later in life

Just like her character in the drama, Lesley found love in later life, having met David when she was 50, at a reiki class he was teaching. Drawing parallels between Mrs Patmore’s romantic relationship with the local farmer, Mr Mason (played by Paul Copley), and her own, she said: “For her to experience love later in life is great, and of course, in my own life, it was equally a wonderful thing to happen. It’s lovely that she gets her new chapter with a lovely person.”

© David Buchan/Shutterstock
Lesley pictured with her husband David Keith Heald in 2020

Encouraging women not to give up on finding romance is something Lesley is passionate about. “I’ve spoken to women who go, ‘It just hasn’t happened for me,’ and I go, ‘Well, don’t listen to people saying, “You’re over 40, forget it!” Don’t listen to that; it’s not true,’” the actress said.

“Things happen when they’re supposed to happen, in my view. So keep your heart and your mind open and see what’s coming next.”

Finding new passions

One of her surprising new discoveries is her passion for cooking. “I’m beginning to enjoy cooking a bit, ironically. It’s taken me a very long time,” she said, admitting that she’s “nowhere near” as skilled as Mrs Patmore.

“I don’t eat meat any more, so my mission is to try to make food that will make a meat-eater go: ‘That’s really nice.’”

She’s also working with a personal trainer named Vlad, who “takes no prisoners”. “It’s really serious weights and squats,” she said. “They’re horrible, hideous things, but it will make me stronger, so there’s less likelihood of falling. It’s tough, but he’s committed to making me more functional, physically.”

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale comes to screens on 12 September

She may be closing the book on Downton, but Lesley has plenty of chapters to enjoy in her own life. “There are still wonderful possibilities and I never want to stop working,” she said. “I’m not going to retire, so if I’m allowed to keep going and doing a variety of things and I’m well enough to do it, bring it on.”

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is in cinemas from 12 September.

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Nicky Morris

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September 11, 2025
Blue Bloods cast reunite ahead of final season as stars talk potential spin-off

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The cast of Blue Bloods were reunited on Thursday night for the annual PaleyFest in New York. The likes of Marisa Ramirez, Vanessa Ray, Tom Selleck, Len Cariou, Donnie Wahlberg and Bridget Moynahan came together at The Paley Museum, where guests watched an advanced screening of one of its final episodes followed by a conversation with members of the cast and creative team.

In photos taken at the event, the cast are pictured smiling on the red carpet with their arms around each other. Other images see the stars posing for pictures with fans.

© Gregory Pace/Shutterstock
Blue Bloods stars Marisa Ramirez, Vanessa Ray, Tom Selleck, Len Cariou, and Donnie Wahlberg at PaleyFest in New York

The event comes after Donnie said he was “all for” a Blue Bloods spin-off after the show’s cancellation. In November last year, it was announced that the drama would end with its 14th season, split into two parts and 18 episodes.

Chatting to TV Insider, the Danny Reagan actor said: “I, for me personally, would say whatever happens next, if it’s done with the spirit of Blue Bloods and done with the care that we tried to put into Blue Bloods every week, it would be something that I would look forward to watching or being a part of either way.

“I’ve heard stories of prequels, sequels, you name it. For me personally, I love the show. I’ve enjoyed working on it for 14 years and like I said, whatever comes next, as long as it has family at its core and the spirit of Blue Bloods, then I’m all for it,” he continued.

WATCH: Donnie Walhberg reveals how he feels about Blue Bloods reunion

Abigail Hawk, who plays Abigail Baker, is also open to a spin-off. In an exclusive interview with HELLO!, the actress said she is “still grieving” the show but feels her character’s story is left “wide open”

© CBS
Abigail Hawk as Abigail Baker in Blue Bloods

Speaking about the new season, the 42-year-old said: “I think we’ve seen quite a bit of anger from her [this season.] We’ve seen her kind of writhing around, a worm on a hook: should I stay here? Am I being fulfilled? You’re not going to get much more drama from her specifically and I actually am very content with that.

“I think that there’s a lovely simplicity to her just being where she is – and it leaves it wide open for a potential spin-off down the road. That’s how I’m viewing it,” she continued.

Sharing her disappointment over the show’s ending, Abigail went on to say: “I don’t want to spin off right now, this is very fresh for me and I’m still grieving because we all wanted to continue, this is not something any of us wanted.

Abigail said she is “still grieving” the show

“We felt that there was so much more we could continue telling and sharing and creating, but I do think there are certain characters that could continue to have quite an amazing and interesting life beyond the world with the Reagans, and I think Abigail Baker is one of them. She’s this woman of mystery and there’s so much that we could just uncover and pull out of her.”

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Nicky Morris

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October 18, 2024
The Wives viewers saying same thing about Channel 5’s new drama

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Channel 5‘s new thriller, The Wives, made its debut on Monday night – and viewers have given their verdict on the series.

The mystery drama, which stars Tamzin Outhwaite, Angela Griffin and Jo Joyner, follows the unravelling of one family on a summer holiday that changes their lives.

WATCH: Channel 5’s new drama, The Wives

While some viewers were left a little “confused” by the plot, others were glued to their screens and praised the compelling drama.

Taking to social media, one person penned: “Wow, The Wives – Cracking stuff. Absolutely everybody catch it if you can. Next episode tomorrow!”

Tamzin Outhwaite, Angela Griffin and Jo Joyner star in The Wives

A second viewer remarked: “Loving #TheWives! Got a feeling that NOTHING is what it seems and I can’t wait to watch it unravel!” while a third added: “Three strong women who are intelligent and want to have fun. What’s not to like? Enjoyed it and looking forward to it becoming even more mysterious.”

For those yet to catch up on the series, it follows three sisters-in-law and close friends who set out to unravel a family mystery.

The synopsis continues: “One year ago, Annabelle Morgan disappeared while on holiday in Malta, leaving behind her husband Charlie and daughter, Sky. The police concluded that she must have fallen to her death from the perilous cliff edge where they found her phone.

© Mark Cassar / Gaumont Ltd / Channel 5 Television
Viewers praised the gripping series

“This summer the Morgan clan are returning to Malta where they all have holiday apartments. The family want to move on with their lives but when Charlie arrives with a new young girlfriend, questions resurface about what happened to Annabelle. The wives: Beth, Natasha and Sylvie begin to suspect that Annabelle’s death wasn’t an accident and undertake their own investigation.”

Angela, who plays Natasha, revealed that the thriller element of the show is what drew her to the part. “I love the thriller element and the mystery of Annabelle’s disappearance, but the massive draw were these women who are finding themselves in their late 40s and early 50s,” the actress told Channel 5.

© Mark Cassar
Angela Griffin plays Natasha

“I’m surrounded by women of this age. The whole project is about how women change, evolve and redefine themselves as seismic events take place in their life, such as children leaving home. You have to ask yourself who you are now you don’t have oestrogen. You’re constantly having to work out who you are in relation to everybody else.”

The Wives continues on Tuesday 17 September on Channel 5 at 9pm. Episode one is available on My5.

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Nicky Morris

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September 17, 2024
Irvine Welsh’s Crime viewers saying the same thing about series two debut

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Irvine Welsh’s Crime returned to ITV with its second season on Wednesday night – and viewers have taken to social media with their verdict.

The series, based on Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh’s novel of the same name, stars Dougray Scott as troubled detective Ray Lennox, who returns to his job at Edinburgh Serious Crimes after suffering a breakdown triggered by bringing down child killer, Mr Confectioner.

WATCH: Dougray Scott stars in Irvine Welsh’s Crime

Viewers were hooked by the series debut, with one person praising the show on social media. “Delighted that #Crime series 2 is on TV again by @IrvineWelsh. Top series,” they penned, while another added: “Probably the best thing I’ve watched in years.”

Applauding Dougray’s performance in the show, another fan penned: “Dougray Scott is on fire again. #Crime series 2 starts with a bang,” while a fourth remarked: “Irvine Welsh Crime is brilliant. Excellent acting by Dougray Scott too.”

© ITV
Dougray Scott and Joanna Vanderham star in the series

The second season opens with DI Lennox back at work after bringing Mr Confectioner to justice. But a lot has changed since he’s been away, with Amanda Drummond having been promoted and two new faces in the team in the form of devious Tommy Stark and failed actor Norrie Erskine.

The synopsis continues: “When one of Lennox’s former colleagues is attacked, Lennox and Drummond quickly realise that all is not as it seems as they become embroiled in a case about vengeance, identity and social justice. The attack is linked to a gruesome attempted murder on a high-ranking establishment figure at a posh hotel which has been hushed up from the police.

© ITV
Fans praised the opening episode

“As Lennox investigates via Edinburgh’s saunas, crack dens and poshest hotels, he finds doors slammed in his face; there is an Establishment cover up at play. It’s not until the killer targets one of Lennox’s own team that the pieces start to fall into place. Tracing the motivation back to an unsavoury incident 30 years ago, Lennox begins to realise that there is more to this case than meets the eye and the killer he has been chasing may not be the driving force behind these murders after all.”

Dougray stars in the drama alongside Joanna Vanderham as DS Amanda Drummond, Ken Stott as CS Bob Toal, John Simm as Gareth Horsborough and Derek Riddell as Richie Gulliver.

© ITV
Dougray’s son Gabriel Scott plays Fraser

Dougray’s son Gabriel, 19, also appears in the show as Fraser. On working with his son, Dougray told ITV: “It’s really interesting watching him work and he won that role. He went up against a lot of other actors and he won it. He’s at the beginning of his career but he’s a sensitive actor with a great sense of vulnerability that he brought to the character of Fraser.”

Irvine Welsh’s Crime continues on Thursday 8 August at 9pm on ITV.

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Nicky Morris

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August 8, 2024
BBC Breakfast’s Carol Kirkwood marks huge milestone with new husband Steve Randall – details

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Congratulations are in order for Carol Kirkwood, who celebrates six months of marriage to her husband Steve Randall today.

The BBC Breakfast star and her police officer husband tied the knot on 27 December in a fairytale winter wedding held at Cliveden House in Berkshire.

© Twitter
Carol and Steve mark six months of marriage today

Carol, who’s been a regular fixture on our screens since 1998, looked simply breathtaking in a satin wedding gown with a fitted waist and an elegant Bardot neckline. The weather presenter wore her hair in a romantic updo and opted for a natural makeup look. Meanwhile, Steve looked dashing in a black suit with a silver tie and a white rose pinned to his buttonhole.

After returning to BBC Breakfast, Carol, 62, opened up about her intimate nuptials. “I cannot tell you how fabulous it’s been,” said the weather forecaster. “You shouldn’t really be talking like this about your own wedding, but it was blissful. It was romantic. It was absolutely perfect. And I would not change a thing about the day.”

© Can Nguyen/Shutterstock
Carol and Steve got engaged in 2022

Carol and Steve’s love story began when the weather presenter was in her 50s. The couple, who first met at a work function, were friends for “quite a long time” before the relationship turned romantic.

“Steve came into my life when I was already very happy, I didn’t need a man in my life — but I want him in my life — and that’s the difference,” Carol said at Good Housekeeping Live in November last year.

Sharing details about her partner in 2021, Carol described Steve as “extremely handsome” and “always making me laugh”.

© Mark Thomas/Shutterstock
Carol said Steve was ‘the best thing that’s ever happened to me’

Gushing about her other half, Carol told Prima magazine: “He always makes me a cup of tea before I go to work in the morning, which is very romantic.

“It’s 2.45am and he often leaves me a little love note for when I come home from work. That, to me, is worth a million red roses.

© Oliver Dixon/Shutterstock
Carol announced her engagement live on BBC Breakfast

The presenter added that Steve was “the best thing that’s ever happened to me, without a shadow of a doubt”.

In 2022, Steve popped the question during a romantic stroll near the couple’s home in Berkshire. Detailing the moment Steve got down on one knee, Carol previously told HELLO!: “It was a lovely, sunny day and we had taken a picnic with us, and we were sitting by the river, watching the boats going by. Steve started fidgeting; I turned to say: ‘What’s wrong?’ He was on his knee, and he proposed. At first, I thought he was joking, but he said: ‘No no, I really do mean it, Will you marry me?’ I said: ‘Yes!! Of course!’”

WATCH: Carol Kirkwood confirms engagement live on BBC Breakfast

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Nicky Morris

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June 27, 2024
BBC Breakfast’s Charlie Stayt absent from show amid new personal chapter
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BBC Breakfast star Charlie Stayt was missing from his usual place on the red sofa on Thursday. The journalist usually hosts the show alongside Naga Munchetty from Thursday to Saturday but was replaced by weekend presenter Roger Johnson, who regularly steps in when the main hosts are off.

Charlie’s absence comes just a day after the broadcaster marked a new chapter as he turned 62. Since Charlie likes to keep his personal life private and keeps off of social media, we don’t know how exactly the presenter marked the special occasion. Although, we’ve no doubt the star celebrated with his wife Anne, and their two children, Jake and Phoebe.

© BBC
Roger Johnson stood in for Charlie Stayt on Thursday

It’s thought that Charlie and Anne, who wed in 1995, live in Twickenham, despite the BBC Breakfast studio’s relocation from London to Salford in Manchester in 2012.

The pair recently made headlines after it was reported that they are facing bankruptcy and have been served with a notice from HMRC.

© James Stack
Charlie is reportedly facing bankruptcy

According to a report by The Sun, the couple have found themselves £6,409 in debt after filing their company’s accounts in December. Charlie and Anne are both listed as directors for Stayt Accounts, a TV and broadcasting firm.

The BBC has declined to comment on the reports, saying that they are a “personal matter” for the journalist.

© BBC/James Stack
Charlie usually hosts the show alongside Naga Munchetty

Charlie has been a regular fixture on the BBC since joining Breakfast back in 2006. While he started as a relief presenter, Charlie was soon promoted to Friday to Sunday host before eventually becoming a weekend presenter in 2008.

In 2014, Naga joined Charlie in the line-up of main presenters and the pair often poke fun at each other during their shows, with viewers often praising their banter.

© BBC
Naga joined the BBC Breakfast line-up in 2014

Naga commented on their on-screen chemistry back in 2020 when responding to a social media post from House of Games host Richard Osman that read: “Like all great TV couples, I think Charlie and Naga have a special form of telepathy. The sort of telepathy where you whisper answers to each other.”

Confirming Richard’s theory, Naga replied “YES,” alongside three laughing face emojis.

Both Charlie and Naga have early wake-up calls for when they’re hosting the show. Sharing his morning routine in a previous interview with RadioTimes.com, Charlie said: “I refuse to snooze. As soon as the alarm goes off, I am up. The other thing is, I embrace the siesta. It’s become a big thing for me. I sort of sit down in the afternoon and consciously do nothing. No snooze and have a siesta, that’s the formula.”
The line-up of BBC Breakfast presenters

© BBC

Charlie Stayt
The journalist joined BBC Breakfast back in 2006 and now hosts the show alongside Naga Munchetty from Thursday to Saturday. Prior to joining the BBC, Charlie was the principal anchor of Five News, fronting the programme’s 9/11 coverage and Millennium celebrations.

Naga Munchetty

The presenter joined the line-up of main presenters in 2014. Before landing a role on BBC Breakfast, she appeared on BBC World News, as well as BBC Two’s weekday financial affairs programme, Working Lunch.

Sally Nugent

Sally has been a main presenter on the show since 2021, replacing Louise Minchin following her departure after 20 years. Sally previously worked as a sports presenter on the show and covered various major sporting events for the BBC, including Emma Raducanu’s historic victory in the US Open tennis championship in 2021.

Jon Kay
The newsreader and journalist took over from Dan Walker following his exit in 2022. He previously worked as a news correspondent for BBC News at Six and covered major events such as the 2012 London Olympics and the 2015 general election campaign.

Carol Kirkwood
Carol is the show’s main weather presenter and has been waking up the nation with the weather forecast on the BBC for 30 years.

Nina Warhurst
Nina is the show’s main business presenter, having taken over from Steph McGovern in 2020. She often fills in as an anchor on the red sofa when the main hosts are absent.

Ben Thompson
Ben is a relief presenter and regularly stands in for the main hosts when they are away from the red sofa. He can also be seen on BBC News.

John Watson
John is a sports presenter and has been working for the BBC since 2012, providing viewers will all the latest sports news and stories.

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Nicky Morris

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June 20, 2024
Bridgerton fans confused after major character is missing from season 3

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Bridgerton‘s third season arrived on our screens on Thursday and viewers have wasted no time getting stuck into the first four episodes in part one.

While most fans have been loving the new storyline, which explores the friend-to-lovers arc between Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) and Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan), some couldn’t help but question the absence of a major character.

WATCH: Are you enjoying season 3?

Season one star Phoebe Dynevor, who portrays the eldest Bridgerton daughter Daphne, was notably missing from the new episodes.

Taking to social media, fans expressed their disappointment, with many hoping for an update on Daphne and her husband, the Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page).

© Photo: Netflix
Phoebe Dynevor doesn’t appear in season three

One person questioned: “Where is Daphne?? I miss Phoebe Dynevor,” while another penned: “Depending on how the next 4 episodes go I might love this season even more than season 2. I wanna see Daphne tho (and Simon) WHERE IS SHE?”

A third person remarked: “I genuinely need Daphne back like… she’s literally a Bridgerton. THE SHOW IS CALLED BRIDGERTON,” while another added: “Can Daphne come back at least for a single episode pls I want Francesca and her scene pls #BRIDGERTON.”

© LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX
Phoebe plays Daphne Bridgerton in the drama

Phoebe confirmed her departure from the show last year during a red carpet appearance at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah. When quizzed over upcoming storylines for her character, the actress told Screen Rant: “Sadly not in season three. Potentially in the future. But season three, I’m just excited to watch as a viewer.”

She later spoke about the reason behind her exit during an interview with Variety, revealing that Daphne’s story had come to an end. “Well I did my two seasons,” said the 29-year-old. “I’ve done what I wanted to do with that character and she had a great arc. If they ask me back in the future, who knows?”

© Getty
Phoebe pictured at the 2024 Met Gala in May

While Phoebe isn’t in season three, it’s possible that she might return for future seasons as showrunner Jess Brownell is keen to bring the Bridgerton siblings back together.

“We want to keep seeing all of our Bridgerton siblings,” she told Variety in 2022. “We feel like those moments when the whole family is together is what really makes the show and makes all of us, I think, want to be a Bridgerton. So yes, you will definitely be seeing Daphne, Anthony and Kate — how much, I don’t want to say quite yet, but you have to tune in.”

© Netflix
Season three tells Penelope and Colin’s love story

Phoebe’s departure comes after her on-screen husband Regé-Jean Page left the show. The actor didn’t return to the drama after season one and appears to have no plans to reprise his role.

While chatting with Vanity Fair last year, the Dungeons & Dragons star was asked whether his decision was an attempt to avoid being pigeonholed, to which he said: “It’s much simpler than that. I signed up to do a job and I did the job and then I did some other jobs. That’s it. That’s the story. I wish it was more glamorous than that.”

Regé-Jean Page left the show after series one

He added: “[After] we finished the story, the temptation would be to roll with the distractions and go, ‘Oh, well, the story went really well so we can kind of change this up and make some other stuff up, I guess.’ That was never what we’d signed up to do.”

Bridgerton is available on Netflix.

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Nicky Morris

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May 17, 2024