Love Island Games | Is it available to watch in the UK?
Ariana Madix is taking the reins as host this time.
Love Island Games has returned with another season, featuring past Islanders ready to put their skills to the test under the stunning Fijian sun. This series, US host Ariana Madix takes the reins from Maya Jama, and is welcomes Islanders from across the world, including the US, UK and French iterations. The contestants representing the UK cohort of Islanders include Lucinda Strafford and Tyrique Hyde, as well as former flames Casey O'Gorman and Gabby Allen. Peacock isn't available in the UK, and so naturally fans on our shores may be wondering how they can watch the new spin-off. Well, if you're ready for more lipsing, scrambled heads and inevitable love triangles, read on for everything you need to know about how to watch Love Island Games. Is Love Island Games available to watch in the UK? The first season of Love Island Games is available to watch on ITVX, but details as to whether season 2 will be available to watch on the streamer are yet to be confirmed. When does Love Island Games season 2 start? Love Island Games season 2 began on Tuesday 16th September, with a two-hour premiere as an added treat for fans of the reality series. The new series airs six days a week, just like its UK counterpart. Who is returning for Love Island Games season 2? The cast for Love Island Games was announced prior to its release with former favourites from various Love Island seasons returning to crack on and get grafting – and there's a lot of them. Those confirmed in Love Island Games season 2: Andrea Carmona Andreina Santos-Marte Casey O'Gorman Charlie Georgiou Chris Seeley Garbi Denteh Gabby Allen Isaiah Campbell Josh Goldstein Johnny Middlebrooks Justine Ndiba Vickala Gray Kendall Washington Lucinda Strafford Marvin Anthony Mert Okatan Nicola Gauci Borda-Warr Solène Favreau Sydney Paight Toby Aromolaran Tyrique Hyde Love Island Games host Love Island US host Ariana Madix was confirmed to host the second season of Love Island Games shortly after the US series came to an end earlier this year. Season 1 of Love Island Games is available to watch on ITVX. Add Love Island Games to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
How to watch Married At First Sight Australia 2025 - can you stream it?
Your guide to how to watch Married At First Sight Australia in the UK.
Married at First Sight Australia, the more chaotic counterpart to the UK dating show which sees Aussie singles tie the knot with strangers selected for them by relationship experts, is returning in 2025. This year’s cast includes the show’s oldest ever bride, as well as two reality TV stars who have already searched for the one on two other dating shows. In addition, in a brand-new twist, this year's contestants will be faced with Final Test Week, where they'll be given the chance to swap their partner. Wondering when Married at First Sight Australia is set to begin and how you can watch it in the UK? Read on for everything you need to know. When does Married At First Sight Australia 2025 start? MAFS Australia 2025 will air in Australia from Monday 27th January 2025 at 7.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now. Speaking to Yahoo Lifestyle about what fans can expect from the 2025 season, expert John Aiken previously teased: "You're gonna see some things very early that you've never seen before. "I've done 12 seasons – this is the twelfth season now – and a couple of things happen that I've never witnessed.” Alessandra Rampolla added: "That part never ceases to amaze me, how every single year we can have different storylines that have not happened before. And there's quite a few of those this year!" How to watch Married At First Sight Australia 2025 in the UK A UK release date is yet to be announced. However, the UK typically begins airing the show around one month after it’s premiered Down Under. MAFS Australia 2024 kicked off on 29th January, and started airing almost a month later in the UK on 26th February. So, if this year’s season follows the same pattern, UK fans can expect new episodes to drop at the end of February. Read more: Why did Ryan and Sionainn leave Married at First Sight UK? Who are Eve and Charlie? Meet Married at First Sight UK 2024 couple Meet the cast of Married at First Sight UK 2024 Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Star Wars: The Acolyte - Release date, trailer and latest news
The mystery thriller series is set at the end of the High Republic era, before the events of the main Star Wars films.
It's almost time for new Star Wars series The Acolyte to grace screens - and the first reactions from the launch events across the globe have been very promising! The Hunger Games star Amandla Stenberg stars in the mystery thriller, which has already been compared to hit show Andor, and it's now confirmed that she'll be playing two characters - sisters Osha and Mae, who were separated by a tragic event in their youth. Also leading the cast is Squid Game's Lee Jung-jae as Jedi Master Sol. The eight-episode series comes from showrunner Leslye Headland, and will focus on the end of the High Republic era, before the events of the main Star Wars films. It is set to take on a dark and foreboding tone, as seen in the trailers. Read on for everything you need to know about Star Wars: The Acolyte. Star Wars: The Acolyte release date The Acolyte will start streaming on Disney Plus on Wednesday 5th June 2024 at 2am in the UK with the first two episodes becoming available. While the series becomes available on Tuesday 4th June in the US, the timing means it'll tip over to the next day in the UK. Further episodes will then be released weekly. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website What is Star Wars: The Acolyte about? The official synopsis for The Acolyte says: "In The Acolyte, an investigation into a shocking crime spree pits a respected Jedi Master (Lee Jung-jae) against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues emerge, they travel down a dark path where sinister forces reveal all is not what it seems…." As for how the series might lead into The Phantom Menace, Headland told RadioTimes.com: "I feel George [Lucas] told the fall of the Jedi perfectly, like, as they got embroiled politically, they became more militaristic and couldn't see the threat right in front of their eyes... "I think he told that story really beautifully. This is more about the cracks in the system and how an individual can portray a larger problem within an institution, as opposed to telling the story of the institution." She added: "There are some things in the last few episodes that I can't tell you about." View Green Video on the source website Who stars in The Acolyte? The confirmed cast members of Star Wars: The Acolyte are: Amandla Stenberg as Osha and Mae Lee Jung-jae as Master Sol Manny Jacinto as Qimir Dafne Keen as Jecki Jodie Turner-Smith as Mother Aniseya Rebecca Henderson as Vernestra Rwoh Charlie Barnett as Yord Dean-Charles Chapman as TBC Carrie-Anne Moss as Master Indara Margarita Levieva as TBC Joonas Suotamo as Kelnacca <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2022/11/Acolyte-3dc3e3a.jpg" width="3677" height="2451" alt="Lee Jung-Jae, Charlie Barnett, Rebecca Henderson, Dafne Keen, Amandla Stenberg, Leslye Headland, Manny Jacinto, Dean-Charles Chapman, Jodie Turner-Smith and Joonas Suotamo" title="Lee Jung-Jae, Charlie Barnett, Rebecca Henderson, Dafne Keen, Amandla Stenberg, Leslye Headland, Manny Jacinto, Dean-Charles Chapman, Jodie Turner-Smith and Joonas Suotamo" /> Joonas Suotamo has made it clear just how thrilled he is to be returning to the franchise in a new role, telling Collider: "I’ve always loved the Jedi - I didn’t know I was going to get a chance of playing one [until] this opportunity with Leslye Headland’s genius direction. "I’m just so grateful, I’m so grateful to be a part of this new era we’re delving into." Is there a trailer for Star Wars: The Acolyte? Yes! Check out the latest trailer for The Acolyte below: View oEmbed on the source website Star Wars: The Acolyte will launch on Disney Plus on Thursday 4th June. You can sign up to Disney Plus for £7.99 a month or £79.90 a year now. Check out our Sci-Fi hub for more news, interviews and features, or find something to watch with our TV guide or Streaming Guide.
Blue Lights star Siân Brooke hints more character deaths could happen
The actor on the aftermath of season 1's finale and how the cast are worried that they could be next.
**Warning: This article contains spoilers for Blue Lights season 1.** Compelling Belfast-based police procedural Blue Lights is finally back for season 2 but lead star Siân Brooke has said viewers still haven't forgiven the show for killing off a fan-favourite in its uncompromising season 1 finale – and suggested that more shocking twists are yet to come. The acclaimed drama follows social-worker-turned-probationary PSNI officer Grace Ellis (Brooke) and her fellow recruits Annie (Katherine Devlin) and Tommy (Nathan Braniff) as they enter the high-pressure environment and complex world of policing in Belfast – confronting violent gangs, checking cars for explosives and intercepting undercover agents. The final episode saw Richard Dormer's beloved veteran cop Gerry being killed after he was shot multiple times by gangster Sully, leaving his colleagues including wife Sandra (Andi Osho) bereaved. Brooke revealed that she is always concerned Grace could be next, and that she and her co-stars immediately scoured the season 2 scripts to check if they survive. "It's a worry that you might be next, and you never know," the Sherlock actor told RadioTimes.com. "After series 1 with Gerry – you just don't know what's going to happen. If I had a pound for every time someone said, 'Why did they kill off Gerry?' and, 'Are Stevie [Martin McCann] and Grace going to get together?', I would be a millionaire! "When series 2 landed on our laps we were all looking through it, thinking, am I going to survive? But you'll have to wait and see!" Having mentioned a romantic connection between Grace and Stevie, can fans expect anything more than Grace attempting to recreate his favourite tupperware of home-baked treats? "In series 2, they've decided to follow their heads not their hearts and concentrate on their job," she said. "But whether they're successful in that, you'll have to find out!" Brooke did reveal that series 2 will delve further into the complexities of the criminal underworld, while Grace, Annie and Tommy are no longer the wide-eyed rookies of series 1, but experienced first responders. "They are the first on the scene and they have to do the job of the police and also counselling, all of that and what that entails," Brooke explained. "I would say as a series, the writers have so brilliantly expanded that world into the criminal underworld, so that's going to be an exciting ride for the audience to see where that weaves and to see these characters that people have taken to their heart and see how they respond." Created by Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, Blue Lights has been commissioned for a third and fourth season, and Brooke says it was always pitched with the intention of being a long-running show, a bit like Line of Duty. "Declan and Adam have always been so positive about the possibility of where this could go, and excited about it. It has been such a collaborative job, in terms of the dialogue and talking about storylines so yes, it will be interesting to see where it goes." Meanwhile, Brooke understands exactly what it's like to have a character killed off prematurely – her Queen Aemma Arryn in HBO's House of the Dragon died in a bloodthirsty birth scene in episode 1. Despite her gory death, there has been speculation that Queen Aemma could return as a vision or a ghost when season 2 begins in June, so will Brooke be back? She explained: "Oh my gosh, you're going to get me into a whole heap of trouble, I can't tell you anything about anything! If I am, I'm looking forward to it! It was quite an intense couple of days. The level of craftsmanship that goes into that show, it's so next level. "We were able to rehearse the birth scene for a whole day, which never really happens on TV. It was really technical trying to get all the blood pumping through a vat, with a bucket and a hose and everything. I wish I had been in it longer!" In the meantime, Brooke will definitely be returning for season 4 of Apple TV's Trying, and will feature in Rapman's much-anticipated new superhero Netflix series Supacell. Blue Lights season 2 is available now on BBC iPlayer, while the first episode will air at 9pm on BBC One on Monday 15th April Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to see what's on tonight. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Who is Tim Campbell? Meet Lord Sugar's newest aide
The former Apprentice winner will assist Lord Sugar in the boardroom for the new season.
Kicking off on BBC One tonight is The Apprentice, with 18 new candidates ready to prove they've got what it takes to win Lord Sugar's £250,000 investment. From pre and post-natal fitness coach Sam Saadet and entrepreneur Tre Lowe to dentist Dr Paul Midha and mortgage broker Raj Chohan, there is an eclectic mix of businessmen and women heading into the boardroom this year – with Lord Sugar's aides watching their every move. Someone who is incredibly familiar with the process is Tim Campbell, season 1 winner turned aide to Lord Sugar on The Apprentice. Campbell replaced Claude Littner in 2022 and has continued to do so. Tasked with being "emotionless" as he watches the candidates win or lose money, here's everything you need to know about Tim Campbell on The Apprentice 2024. Who is Tim Campbell? Tim Campbell won the first ever Apprentice back in 2005, landing a £100,000-a-year job with Lord Sugar's firm Amstrad. He left two years later to found the Bright Ideas Trust, a charity which helps young people to set up their own businesses. He is also the co-author of one of Amazon's Top 10 business books for 2010, What's Your Bright Idea?. In 2012, Tim received an MBE for Enterprise Culture and currently runs his own digital marketing agency, Marketing Runner. View Green Video on the source website Tim Campbell's social media Age: 46 Instagram: @timcampbell_mbe Twitter: @TC_MBE What is Tim's role on The Apprentice? Former Apprentice winner and entrepreneur Tim Campbell joined the show in 2022 as Lord Sugar's brand new boardroom aide, replacing Claude Littner for the season. Campbell will once again take on the role of aide in season 18, replacing Littner, who has confirmed he will be back during the interviews process. Littner confirmed this on his X (formerly known as Twitter) account, after fan asked if he would be returning. "Back for the interviews," he wrote in response. View oEmbed on the source website What is Tim Campbell’s net worth? Campbell’s net worth is not known. However, his digital marketing company Marketing Runners was removed from the Companies House register in 2022, according to The Times. Meanwhile, the charity Bright Ideas Trust – which Tim established to help disadvantaged young people through entrepreneurship – was dissolved last year. Tim told The Times: "I've had experiences of things not going the way that you plan. Anyone who puts a business plan together, and [says] it manifests itself in exactly that way... they're either very fortunate or they're not telling you the 100 per cent truth." Who is Tim Campbell’s wife? Tim Campbell is married to his wife Jasmine, who he regularly posts on his Instagram. A recent post shows the pair in a swimming pool, alongside the caption: "When your kids catch you crushing on your wife… I hope they aspire for what they see." The pair have two children together, Kayla and Aaron. The Apprentice airs on Thursday 1st February at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide for more to watch. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Who are STAND UNIQU3? UK’s Junior Eurovision 2023 entry
Introducing the trio Hayla, Maisie and Yazmin...
This year has certainly been the year of Eurovision and there's no letting up as we get into the winter seasons as Junior Eurovision is landing on our screens today (Sunday 26th November). The Junior version of the show is back to fill that Eurovision-shaped hole in our lives and will feature the UK's exciting new entry STAND UNIQU3. The girl group consists of singers Hayla, Maisie and Yazmin who have been selected to represent the UK in the international singing competition as part of the new girl group, after successfully making it through a challenging audition process. The Junior Eurovision Song Contest takes place this year in Nice, France, following Lissandro's winning performance in 2022 with his song Oh Maman. STAND UNIQU3 will be singing the song Back to Life, which was created by songwriters Sky Adams, Jakke Erixson and Jack Hawitt. Here's everything we know about STAND UNIQU3 below.. Who are STAND UNIQU3? View oEmbed on the source website Instagram: @standuniqu3 STAND UNIQU3 are comprised of talented young singers Hayla, Maisie and Yazmin. Hayla, 12, is from Liverpool, and cites Rihanna as her biggest inspiration. According to the BBC, Hayla's grandfather was a backing dancer for the 1987 UK Eurovision Song Contest entry. Maisie is 13 and hails from Essex. Her passions are singing, dancing and acting on stage. Yazmin is 12 and from Newcastle. Yazmin is experienced in performing in front of crowds, as she enjoys Latin and ballroom dancing. What have STAND UNIQU3 said about representing the UK at Junior Eurovision 2023? "I think we have a good chance. We have good competition, though," the girl group recently told CBBC's Newsround. "We're not just proud of ourselves, we're proud of every contestant so far, because it takes guts to do something like this. Even if we don't come out on top, we'll still be proud of ourselves and everyone else who has entered the competition." Patricia Hidalgo, director of BBC children’s and education, added: "We have a great song and high hopes for our brilliant trio, STAND UNIQU3, and we want families everywhere to cheer on Hayla, Maisie and Yazmin and watch them represent the UK in the competition across BBC Two, CBBC and iPlayer." What song will STAND UNIQU3 be representing the UK with? STAND UNIQU3 will be performing the song Back to Life, which was written by songwriters Sky Adams, Jakke Erixson and Jack Hawitt. The songwriters have penned hits for artists like Jason Derulo, Lauren Spencer Smith, Kylie Minogue and Ava Max. The song carries a positive message which is all about confronting your fears. When is The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2023? The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2023 takes place in Nice, France, on Sunday 26th November 2023 - and the public vote opens on 24th November. It will air at 3pm on the CBBC channel and BBC Two, and fans can catch up if they miss it on BBC iPlayer. Has the UK ever won Junior Eurovision? The UK has never won Junior Eurovision. The most successful Junior Eurovision nation is Georgia, which has won the contest three times. Poland has won twice, and is the only nation to have won back-to-back contests. Last year's winner was French singer Lissandro. View Green Video on the source website The Junior Eurovision Song Contest will air on CBBC on Sunday 26th November. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Big Brother’s Matty on love triangle: "Jordan doesn’t reciprocate Henry’s feelings"
The housemate left the Big Brother House in an eviction twist last night.
Big Brother's Matty has responded to suggestions he was caught in the middle of a love triangle with former housemates Jordan and Henry following his surprise eviction from the house last night (16th November). Matty, a 24-year-old doctor and self-confessed hippy from the Isle of Man, exchanged flirty banter with 26-year-old lawyer Jordan from week one, before Jordan turned his romantic attentions to 25-year-old food critic Henry. Jordan and Henry have since enjoyed kisses in bed and in the hot tub - but Matty isn't convinced that Jordan fully reciprocates Henry's feelings. Matty, who is in an open relationship with boyfriend Connor, also described the supposed love triangle as more of a flat "line" which seemed "much bigger on the outside than it was inside the house". "I could probably say quite a lot about the love triangle... I think it was much bigger on the outside than it was inside the house," Matty exclusively told RadioTimes.com. "And I don't think triangle is the right shape to describe the feelings. I think it was more of a line - Henry, Jordan, then to me. But there was really no connection after that. "I'm surprised I was even drawn to Jordan as a friend because we represent opposites - he is a complete cynic." View oEmbed on the source website Matty said it became more challenging to navigate as he, Jordan and Henry shared a friendship group: "It was very complicated because we all exist in the same group with Trish, Yinrun, Jordan and Henry, so we spent all day together and we were friends. "It was just very hard knowing that Jordan had romantic feelings for me, and navigating that when spending all day together in the same group. And when I found out that Henry had feelings for Jordan, trying to navigate that, as well." Since leaving the house, Matty suggested that Jordan could direct more of his attention to Henry, but that in his opinion, the pair have more of a friendship developing than anything romantic. "Their friendship is flowering into whatever it's meant to be, [but] I don't think Jordan feels the same way for Henry," he said. "I also think Jordan has been honest by telling Henry that he just used him as a platonic friend to kiss." Meanwhile, Matty also revealed the housemates have plans for a reunion trip next year - providing they all get on at the wrap party after tonight's finale. "There's a Benidorm trip happening in the springtime - if everyone can be friends at the wrap party tonight! Jenkin wants us to stay in a hostel in the same room, so it can be like the Big Brother house!" Last night, Matty was evicted in a surprise twist via a letter from home, which he described as "iconic". Matty picked Yinrun to read the supportive words from his family, but things took a turn towards the end, as it concluded with a message from Big Brother saying his time in the house was over. Tonight's finale features remaining housemates Henry, Jordan, Noky, Olivia and Yinrun battling it out for the £100,000 prize, with Matty backing Yinrun for the win. View Green Video on the source website Big Brother's finale airs tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Every celebrity who’s appeared on Selling Sunset
From Queer Eye's Karamo to Modern Family's Jesse Tyler Ferguson, here's every celebrity who's appeared on Selling Sunset.
Selling Sunset season 7 has finally arrived - so prepare for more gazillion-dollar penthouses, non-stop shade throwing, and Jason hosting bottomless Aperol Spritz brunches (we hope). The series follows seven of LA's most successful female realtors - Chrishell Stause, Mary Fitzgerald, Emma Hernan, Amanza Smith, Heather Rae El Moussa and Bre Tiesi - as they compete with the cutthroat LA market. Oh, and each other. According to Netflix, this season sees the realtors of The Oppenheim Group return with sleek penthouse listings, personality clashes, and pregnancies - and the office has moved to an even more luxurious space on Sunset Boulevard. It even features its very own bar. Crafted from the finest marble, obviously. With Hollywood A-list clientele including Meryl Streep and Dakota Johnson, we're always keeping our eyes peeled for a celebrity cameo on the show. So, we take a look at all the celebrities who have appeared on Selling Sunset so far... Every celebrity who’s appeared on Selling Sunset Taye Diggs Actor and Broadway star Taye Diggs became the first celebrity on Selling Sunset in season 1, episode 3. Diggs, who has a son from his former marriage to Frozen star Idina Menzel, was shown around a $3.6 million Hollywood Hills home by realtor Mary Fitzgerald. Diggs also dated fellow Selling Sunset star Amanza Smith following his divorce from Menzel, and the pair remain good friends. Karamo Brown Christine Quinn let slip Karamo Brown of Queer Eye fame would be coming on the show when he and his then-husband Ian Jordan were looking for a new home. Karamo is the Culture Expert on Netflix's Queer Eye alongside Jonathan Van Ness (hair), Antoni Porowski (food), Tan France (fashion) and Bobby Berk (interior design). The hit series has run for seven seasons. Karamo started his television career in 2004 on the MTV reality show The Real World: Philadelphia, and in September last year, he started hosting his eponymous talk show for NBCUniversal. Larsa Pippen Real Housewives of Miami star Larsa Pippen makes a cameo in season 2 when Chrishell tries to sell her a $4.5 million house... The only issue being, was it going to fit all 15 of Larsa's cars in its underground parking? Relatable. French Montana Moroccan-US rapper French Montana, real name Karim Kharbouch, appeared via FaceTime - celebrities are very busy after all - when Mary arrived at his six-bedroom house near Calabasas to put on the market. French Montana signed a joint-venture record deal with Puff Daddy's Bad Boy Records and Rick Ross's Maybach Music Group in 2012. Jesse Tyler Ferguson Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson makes his appearance during Christine Quinn's suitably lavish and exotic baby shower. Ferguson is arguably best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett in sitcom Modern Family, for which he earned five consecutive nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. He's married to actor and producer Justin Mikita and they are parents to two boys. Simu Liu Marvel star Simu Liu appeared in season 4, making his debut in the Oppenheim office in LA, where he discusses what his dream home and budget looks like. The Canadian star is known for portraying Shang-Chi in the 2021's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. He also appeared in Greta Gerwig's Barbie as one of the many Kens. Thomas Bryant Thomas Bryant also makes his cameo in season 4, as another famous client of Chrishelle's. Chrishelle is tasked with selling his sprawling five-bedroom home and goes on the hunt for a new luxe property. The 26-year-old NBA superstar plays for the Miami Heat. Selling Sunset season 7 starts on Friday 5th November on Netflix. Selling Sunset seasons 1-6 are available to stream on Netflix now. Sign up for Netflix from £4.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream. Check out our lists of the best series on Netflix and the best movies on Netflix, or see what else is on with our TV Guide. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
In Love & Toxic: Blue Therapy cast - Meet the couples on the E4 dating show
Following five couples, the series offers deep dissection of modern Black British relationships.
Following the success of YouTube series Blue Therapy, described as a "deep dissection of modern Black British relationships", the series returned as a six-parter earlier this month on E4. In Love & Toxic: Blue Therapy follows five couples as they detail their relationship challenges in a series of couples therapy sessions, placing difficult issues out in the open. The series will examine almost every aspect of dating and relationships, says Channel 4, "from the growing curiosity surrounding polygamy, the allure of 'soft life' living, and the complexities of intercultural dating" as no subject is off limits and some hard truths will be told. The couples are guided by returning relationships coach, Denise, and new joiner, Jo. Viewers can expect more jaw-dropping moments and some shocking revelations. As the series continues, here's everything you need to know about Love & Toxic: Blue Therapy below... Love & Toxic: Blue Therapy cast Meet the cast below. Couple Marie & Tunde Marie Job: Realtor From: London Instagram: @mariemaria___ Ambitious and career-driven, Marie knows exactly what she wants in a relationship – to be treated like the queen she knows she is. Havingmet Tunde 10 years ago through a mutual friend, Marie appreciates the unique bond she’s built with him, but she’s uncertain whether their relationship is worth fighting for due to their differing opinions on marriage and family, and now she’s in search of clarity. Marie thinks that a mediator will help her see beneath the surface of their problems and allow her and Tunde to communicate with each other without clashing. Tunde Job: Airbnb host/Property manager From: London Instagram: @txnde.oj Father of three Tunde is often described as the male version of Marie – fun, charismatic and highly ambitious. Tunde admires drive in a woman, which is one of the traits that attracted him to Marie, and he describes himself as the perfect gentleman and modern alpha male. While he prefers to seek relationship advice from those close to him and thinks their challenges should be resolved privately, Tunde was persuaded to give couples therapy a shot. He questions whether it’ll be worth it. Couple Rae & Shaun Rae Job: Mental health nurse From: South London Instagram: @iberaerogers Rae was on the fence when Shaun first suggested couples therapy, and thought he was more concerned with holding her accountable than actually addressing the issues in their relationship. Now she wants Shaun to prove that he can be the man that he always says he is. Despite having a strong connection at first, Shaun’s lack of effort and consistency has left Rae questioning their future together, and whether he’s in it for the long run. With the help of the relationship coaches, Rae wants to finally put her guard down so she can express her true feelings. Shaun Job: Professional model From: London Instagram: @shaunokojie Shaun fell head over heels for Rae when they first met, but tired of them not being able to see eye to eye, he thinks couples therapy is the only way that they can resolve their issues without butting heads. The idea of therapy caught Shaun’s attention after seeing conversations around mental health on social media and seeing clips of the original series circulating online. While it’s unchartered territory for him, he’s hoping that therapy will help them understand each other and address the trust issues in their relationship. Couple Michael & Lauren Lauren Job: Singer-songwriter From: London Instagram: @laurencofie Ambitious, confident and quick-witted, Lauren is hardly ever lost for words, but when Michael proposed the idea of couples therapy, Lauren wasn’t too sure what to say or how to feel about it. Moving from Nottingham to London to pursue her music career, Lauren doesn’t play when it comes to fulfilling her dreams. However, her drive and ambition has left Michael feeling self-conscious in their relationship. Lauren wants to reassure Michael that she will put more of an effort into their relationship, but she also wants Michael to know that her career is important to her. Is she willing to compromise? Michael Job: Doggy day care trainer and manager From: Hertfordshire Instagram: @michaelmendesdc More low-key and reserved than his partner Lauren, Michael has struggled to voice his opinions in the past, and his fear of confrontation has allowed issues in their relationship to brew inside of him. One of Michael’s pet peeves in a relationship is someone who prioritises other things over him, so Lauren’s music career has driven a wedge in their relationship. Especially with his 9-5 job, Michael struggles to understand Lauren’s hectic schedule and be fully supportive of her dreams. Michael hopes that the sessions will open the line of communication between them, where he can voice his thoughts and opinions without being interrupted. Couple Temi & Tang Temi Job: Broadcast programme buyer From: London Instagram: @temi_official Having grown up in a Nigerian-Trinidadian household, Temi was taught from an early age to only confide in the church or her family, but now she’s hopeful that the coaching sessions will allow her to express her true feelings. Temi often struggles to pick Tang’s busy brain, and doubts whether he actually listens to her when she speaks. For Temi, therapy is the only place where Tang has no choice but to be attentive. She wants to use the coaching sessions to discuss how they can be better parents to their daughter, ways to reignite the sexual passion in their relationship, and also hold Tang accountable for some of his past behaviour. Tang Job: IT specialist From: London Instagram: @tangyinzworld Tang initially swept Temi off her feet with his loving and infectious personality, but his humour can sometimes prevent them from having serious conversations. After experiencing a turbulent first marriage, Tang thought that he would never get married again, but he loves how much fun he and Temi have together and how open they are with one another. Tang thinks that couples counselling can help them understand each other’s feelings and how they can approach difficult situations better. As a man of East Asian background, he also wants to learn more about Temi’s culture. Couple Lucky and Annah Annah Job: Mental health professional From: Essex Annah’s biggest ick in a relationship is inconsistency, so it’s fair to say that her relationship with Lucky has been a rollercoaster ride from the moment they met. Lucky slid into Annah’s DMs after initially locking eyes at an Amapiano festival, but having dealt with his ghosting and 'love bombing' habits, Annah has struggled to ignore the red flags in their relationship. As a mother of two, Annah wants a man who is intentional and someone who takes their relationship seriously. Annah believes that the coaching sessions will help them address the root cause of their issues and save their relationship from reaching breaking point. She also wants to understand herself better and hear Lucky out. Lucky Job: Healthcare professional From: Brighton Originally his partner Annah’s idea to start couples therapy, Lucky’s willing to fix their relationship by whatever means necessary. His biggest red flag in a relationship is someone who doesn’t know how to communicate and can only resolve conflict through make up sex, so transparency is a big deal for him. Through the coaching sessions, he’s hoping that Annah can give him the verbal reassurance he needs to get their relationship back on track, and make her see that two wrongs never make a right. The relationship coaches Denise An experienced actress, celebrant and children’s confidence-building teacher, Denise has worn many professional hats, but her passion for helping people express their emotions led to a career in relationship coaching, where she provides a listening ear to couples in search of answers. Denise’s mission is pretty simple – to help her clients find the solution to their problems within themselves. She believes that all relationships are a work in progress and require a trying effort to truly succeed. She also says that the "if it’s broken, replace it" mentality in today’s society has allowed people to end good relationships without having tried to fix them. In her sessions, Denise encourages her clients to listen to both sides and work through their challenges as a team. Her advice to couples who want to start therapy is, "What have you got to lose? You only have something to gain by trying it." Jo Jo has been a holistic and wellness coach for four years, and has been able to support his clients through various relationship challenges. Now he’s here to help the couples overcome their issues. Jo believes that society’s unrealistic expectations of love is the root cause of most toxic relationships today, which prevents people from being honest about their real intentions and feelings. Having observed this, Jo’s coaching technique emphasises the importance of authenticity and truth as a way of building a strong foundation in a relationship. His objective is to encourage the couples to be totally raw and honest with one another, and to adopt a different perspective to better understand their partner. In Love & Toxic: Blue Therapy airs on E4 on Thursdays at 10pm. If you’re looking for more to watch, check out our TV Guide or visit our hub for more Entertainment news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Where is the Selling Sunset office? Oppenheim Group location revealed
Season 7 arrives on Netflix on 3rd November.
Prepare for more luxe property, numerous shady remarks and Jason Oppenheim enjoying an Aperol Spritz or two as Selling Sunset returns to Netflix with season 7 this month. The series follows some of Los Angeles's most successful realtors at the The Oppenheim Group, as they navigate explosive office politics, evolving friendships, a tricky housing market and jaw-dropping new listings. Our favourite returning realtors include Chrishell Stause, Mary Fitzgerald, Emma Hernan, Amanza Smith, Heather Rae El Moussa and Breana Tiesi, along with their bosses, twins Jason and Brett Oppenheim. The new season boasts sleek penthouse listings, personality clashes and pregnancies - and enough shade to cover every cabana in Los Angeles. We can't wait! The Oppenheim Group is back in a brand new office, so check out where the new flagship office is located below... Where is the original Selling Sunset office? The Oppenheim Group was originally situated on 8606 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood - but has moved into a more spacious building next door for season 7. Where is the new Selling Sunset office? The Oppenheim Group returns with a brand new office - a bigger, more lavish space right next door. The flagship office is now located on 8604 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069. The website says: "This open-space environment of this flagship office takes inspiration from the rich colours and decadent details of Old Hollywood, paired with more modern touches to achieve an interesting mix of classic and contemporary styles. "Herringbone flooring creates an ambiance of warmth and subtlety, and moody Midnight Blue walls add some Old Hollywood-inspired drama to the space." Not only that, but the new office even features its very own bar. Crafted from marble, obviously. West Hollywood's Sunset Boulevard is one of the most iconic and famous streets in LA. It's 22 miles long and stretches from Downtown to the Pacific Coast Highway intersection, passing through Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Bel Air. Sunset Strip boasts many bars and restaurants, and is even home to the Chateau Marmont, a legendary hotel with over 90 years of history and where many celebrities have stayed. The Oppenheim Group also have offices in Newport Beach, San Diego and Cabo San Lucas. View Green Video on the source website Selling Sunset season 7 starts on Friday 5th November on Netflix. Selling Sunset seasons 1-6 are available to stream on Netflix now. Sign up for Netflix from £4.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream. Check out our lists of the best series on Netflix and the best movies on Netflix, or see what else is on with our TV Guide. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Daniel Radcliffe-produced documentary on David Holmes gets first trailer
David Holmes was Radcliffe's stunt double for the Harry Potter films - until an accident left him paralysed.
The first official trailer has been released for The Boy Who Lived, the much-anticipated documentary made by Daniel Radcliffe and former Harry Potter stunt double David Holmes. Holmes was the stuntman for Radcliffe in the Potter films, and as the trailer begins, we see footage of Holmes in action for the franchise while reflecting on the "best job in the world". "You're constantly being tested, risking it all. I used to fly, nothing's like it, man," he explains. View oEmbed on the source website Footage featuring a young Holmes sees him introduce himself as "a gymnast, stuntman and extraordinaire", with his parents remarking on how he would jump into anything for fun, and had "no concept of fear". "I knew I was going to be a stuntman, then I got the best job in the world, lead stuntman for Daniel in the Potter films," Holmes continues. Radcliffe also features to reflect: "Dave seemed like a cool older brother, who would do the most dangerous, physical things." On set for the penultimate film in 2009 - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 - Holmes took part in a stunt which went wrong, causing him to launch into a wall which immediately broke his neck, rendering him paralysed. He now uses a wheelchair. "I remember straight after breaking my neck, I knew there was no chance of coming back," Holmes recalls in the trailer. Radcliffe becomes emotional as he features again, and describes the accident as "unfair". But the actor insists that Holmes's story isn't a "tragedy", as the way his life has affected those around him means that it is the furthest thing from that imaginable. Meanwhile, Holmes says he's learning to live in the present after formerly dedicating his whole life to being a stunt double, and that he has enjoyed a "crazy life of highs and lows". The documentary reveals the touching bond between Radcliffe and Holmes, with Sky stating: "Featuring candid personal footage shot over the last decade, behind-the-scenes material from Holmes's stunt work, scenes of his current life and intimate interviews with David, Daniel Radcliffe, friends, family and former crew, the film also reflects universal themes of living with adversity, growing up, forging identities in an uncertain world and the bonds that bind us together and lift us up." Holmes recently added on Instagram: "This film tells the story of not just my achievements in front of camera, but also the challenges I face every day, and my overall attitude to life after suffering a broken neck. "In the turbulent world we find ourselves living in right now, I would like to quote Harry – 'We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided.' "I am only able to live because of the united love and support that I am fortunate enough to have had. And it is thanks to this love and support that I am able to share my journey with you all." View Green Video on the source website David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived premieres on HBO on Wednesday 15th November at 9pm EST, before being made available to stream on Max in the US. UK viewers can stream it on Sky Documentaries and NOW from 18th November. If you’re looking for more to watch, check out our TV Guide or visit our hub for more Documentaries news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Three decades after the original, the anticipated sequel has finally arrived!
Halloween is fast approaching, and that means one thing: it’s time to watch (or rewatch) Hocus Pocus 2. The sequel to the 1993 cult classic film was released last year in time for Halloween, and reunites witches Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy from the original as they return to Salem after being unknowingly summoned by three teenage girls. The Hocus Pocus 2 cast also features Whitney Peak (Chilling Adventures of Sabrina), Belissa Escobedo (American Horror Stories) and newcomer Lilia Buckingham as young protagonists Becca, Izzy and Cassie, who take on the rather tricky task of defeating the trio of wily witches. Wondering how you can watch the trio bring chaos to Salem once more, or whether you can still watch the original? Read on to find out. How to watch Hocus Pocus 2 Hocus Pocus 2 is available to stream now on Disney Plus, after launching on the streaming platform on Friday 30th September 2022. Sign up to Disney+ for £7.99 a month or £79.90 a year now. You can also download the Disney Plus app on most Android and Apple devices, as well as most Smart TVs and the Amazon Fire TV Stick. Check out our guide to find out how to download the Disney Plus app. Find out more about compatible Disney Plus devices here. A Disney Plus subscription costs £7.99 per month or £79.90 a year in the UK. View oEmbed on the source website How to watch the original Hocus Pocus The original Hocus Pocus is available to watch on Disney Plus. The 1993 cult classic is also available to watch, buy and rent on a number of other streaming services including Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney Plus, Hulu and Vudu. Is Hocus Pocus 2 in cinemas? Hocus Pocus 2 was exclusively released on Disney Plus, which means it never had a theatrical release. View Green Video on the source website Hocus Pocus 2 is available to stream now on Disney Plus. Check out more of our Film and Fantasy coverage, or visit our TV Guide to see what’s on tonight. Sign up to Disney Plus for £7.99 a month or £79.90 a year. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Survivor past winners: All the champs and where they are now
The adventure series is returning to our TV screens this month.
Two tribes will go to war as BBC One revives reality adventure series Survivor, which last aired in the UK 21 years ago. Eighteen castaways will be deserted on a tropical location in the Dominican Republic and divided into two teams pitted against each other in a range of physical and mental challenges for reward or immunity. The BBC says that "one by one, players will be voted out of their tribes at the iconic Tribal Council until the two tribes eventually merge and the game becomes a head-to-head battle". Of course, only one contestant can emerge victorious, winning the cash prize of £100,000 and the title of Sole Survivor. Survivor originally debuted in the UK on ITV in 2001, and ran for two seasons, hosted by broadcaster Mark Austin and then Mark Nicholas. In the US, it began on CBS in 2000, presented by Jeff Probst, and has continued for 45 seasons, including various spin-offs such as All Stars and Millennials vs Gen X. As the show prepares to return our TV screens this month with new host Joel Dommett, we've taken a look back at the previous winners of Survivor UK below. Survivor UK winners Charlotte Hobrough Charlotte won season 1 of Survivor UK in 2001, also known as Survivor: Pulau Tiga. Pulau Tiga is a remote island in Malaysia, where the debut season took place, running from 21st May until 25th July 2001. A Detective Constable from Rhoose in Wales, then aged 24, Charlotte beat airline industry purchaser Jackie Carey in a 7-0 jury vote in the finale, winning the title of Ultimate Survivor and a £1million cash prize. Since her win, Charlotte has presented Channel 4's Big Breakfast and ITV2's coverage of the second season of Survivor, before returning to her job as a DC in the South Wales Constabulary. With her winnings, Charlotte bought herself a new home and car. Jonny Gibb Season 2 of Survivor was filmed in the Bocas del Toro archipelago of Panama, running from 13th March until 29th May 2002. Police detective Jonny Gibb, aged 31 at the time and hailing from Edinburgh, was named the Ultimate Survivor and won £1 million after he defeated teacher Susannah Moffat in a 7-0 jury vote. It was reported in 2010 that Johnny was welcomed back into Lothian and Borders Police to reprise his role as a Detective Constable. Survivor UK will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on 28th October at 8:25pm. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
What happened to John Gotti and how did he die?
The infamous crime boss is the subject of Netflix's new documentary series.
John Gotti, the late US crime boss who has been immortalised over the years in TV and film, is the subject of Netflix's upcoming documentary series, Got Gotti. The three-parter is set in 1985, when John Gotti was one of the most powerful men in New York, and also the most surveilled. His involvement in the death of ‘Boss of Bosses’ Paul Castellano saw Gotti become the head of America's most powerful crime syndicate in history - the Gambino family. The docuseries chronicles Gotti’s meteoric rise and crashing fall – as shared by those who were responsible for bringing him down. As we await Netflix's new true crime series - launching on 24th October - look back at the notorious crime figure and his eventual demise. Who was John Gotti? John Gotti was born in the Bronx, New York City, on 27th October 1940, and was the fifth of 13 children of John Joseph Gotti Sr and Philomena Fannie DeCarlo. His family descended from San Giuseppe Vesuviano, in the province of Naples, Italy. During his adolescence, Gotti skipped school and became involved with New York street gangs before working with the Mafia-associated Fulton-Rockaway Boys gang. He married Victoria DiGiorgio in 1962, and they had five children. Gotti eventually became part of the feared Gambino family alongside his brothers Gene, Peter and Richard. Early jobs within the mob included robbing trucks with Thomas DeSimone, which became the inspiration for Joe Pesci’s gangster in Martin Scorsese's classic, Goodfellas. In 1985, Gotti helped to orchestrate the murder of the head of the family, Paul Castellano, and replaced him as the boss of the Gambino clan, America's most powerful crime syndicate. During his time as boss of the Gambino family, Gotti was arrested and charged multiple times but was freed following a series of acquittals. He became infamous when he was acquitted in three consecutive court cases, which earned him the nickname the 'Teflon Don'. What happened to John Gotti and how did he die? In 1991, Gotti's underboss Salvatore 'Sammy the Bull' Gravano heard Gotti make disparaging remarks about him on an FBI wiretap that implicated him and Gotti in several murders. Gravano agreed to provide incriminating evidence to the FBI and testify against Gotti in court. In 1992, Gotti was convicted of five murders, conspiracy to commit murder, racketeering, obstruction of justice, tax evasion, illegal gambling, extortion, and loansharking, and sentenced to life in prison without parole. After his sentencing, Gotti was transferred to United States Penitentiary, Marion. In 1998, Gotti was diagnosed with throat cancer, from which he died at the age of 61 on 10th June 2002, at the United States Medical Center for Federal Prisoners in Springfield, Missouri. His imprisonment and death led to the beginning of the end of the Cosa Notra, aka the mafia, in the US. Since the 1990s, Gotti has been portrayed in six TV movies, two documentary series and three films, including 2018's Gotti, which featured John Travolta in the titular role. Get Gotti airs on Netflix on 24th October. Sign up for Netflix from £4.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream. Check out more of our Documentaries coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Who is Amanda Abbington? Meet the Strictly Come Dancing 2023 contestant
Everyone's favourite sequin-filled series has returned to BBC One.
Once again, Amanda Abbington sailed through the week on Strictly Come Dancing 2023, after she took to the dance floor with the foxtrot. Last weekend, the actress - who is best known for her roles in Sherlock and Mr Selfridge - performed the dance with her professional partner Giovanni Pernice to the Fleetwood Mac hit Everywhere. Their Week 4 display secured them an impressive 31 points and placed them joint fourth on the leaderboard, alongside Angela Rippon and her partner Kai Widdrington. As Strictly enters Week 5 - otherwise known as Halloween Week - Abbington and Pernice will be performing a spooky cha-cha to Canned Heat by Jamiroquai. Following her performances, the star has marked herself as a strong contender to lift this year's Glitterball trophy, having impressed judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke. And while she is grateful for the support of her family, Amanda exclusively revealed to RadioTimes.com that her daughter is rooting for an entirely different contestant. She said: "My daughter's going to a party with her boyfriend and my son was going to come and sit in the audience and support his mum. "She only wants to come to meet Giovanni. I said to her, 'Do you support me?' She said, 'No, I support Giovanni and Zara [McDermott].'" So, who is Amanda Abbington and how does she feel about appearing on Strictly Come Dancing 2023? Read on to find out. Who is Amanda Abbington? Age: 51 Job: Actor Instagram: @amanda_abbington74 Twitter: N/A Strictly partner: Giovanni Pernice Amanda Abbington is best known for playing Mary Morstan in BBC One's detective drama Sherlock, where she starred opposite former husband Martin Freeman, while she also appeared as Josie Mardle in ITV period piece Mr Selfridge. More recently, she has appeared in UKTV comedy We Are Not Alone, Netflix fantasy series Lockwood & Co and BBC Two anthology Inside No. 9. Amanda Abbington's Strictly journey so far Scoreboard: Week One: Viennese Waltz (7+7+8+7) = 29 Week Two: Salsa (8+8+8+8) = 32 Week Three: Rumba (6+8+8+8) = 30 Week Four: Fox Trot (7+8+8+8) = 31 What has Amanda Abbington said about joining Strictly 2023? Abbington said: "I'm thrilled to have been asked to do Strictly. I'm actually really shy and self-conscious so this will be a great opportunity for me to overcome those things! "Plus, I get to learn to dance which I am incredibly excited about. I'm really looking forward to the training too, I’m quite competitive as my family and friends will tell you. I can’t wait to start!" Prior to her appearance on the talent show, Strictly Come Dancing podcast host Joe Sugg revealed he thought Abbington will surprise a lot of people this season. "I think she will be very, very good. Yeah, I'm excited to see her dance. I think she will surprise a lot of people," he told RadioTimes.com. When asked if he thinks she will be the dark horse of the series, the Strictly podcast host revealed he did. When does Strictly Come Dancing 2023 air? Strictly Come Dancing 2023 continues on Saturday 7th October at 6:20pm. The results show will air on Sunday 8th October. View Green Video on the source website Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday 21st October at 6:30pm. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Big Brother housemates in shock as they learn of Hallie and Olivia’s rule break
Hallie and Olivia attempted to communicate via secret messages.
Big Brother housemates will face the wrath of and uncertain punishment from the all-seeing-eye after Hallie and Olivia were caught out for secretly communicating with one another. On tonight's episode (19th October), housemates are instructed by Big Brother to gather in the lounge as they are informed of Hallie and Olivia's blatant rule-breaking. Big brother announces: "Before you entered the house, the Big Brother rules were explained to you. The rules state that you may not attempt to communicate in code or write in messages. Yesterday, this rule was broken by Hallie and Olivia." After audible and visible shock among the housemates, Big Brother continues: "Olivia, you said to Hallie, 'Write me secret messages on my back.' Hallie, you wrote on Olivia’s back. Olivia, you relayed this out loud, and said, 'Is a game player.' "Later on, Hallie, you wrote another message on Olivia’s back. As you did so, Olivia, you said the letters out loud: 'N' and 'O'." View oEmbed on the source website Some of the housemates immediately assume that Hallie and Olivia were referring to Noky. When Big Brother asks Hallie to stand up and address housemates in response to her rule-breaking, Noky interrupts and asks: "To Noky?" Confused by Noky’s interjection, Hallie repeats: "To Noky?" Hallie then reveals to fellow housemates what she was writing on Olivia's back, which included her accusing Zak of being a game-player and suggesting that Matty had nominated her. She then clarifies: "It was nothing about Noky." It's not yet known what punishment Big Brother will exact on either Hallie and Olivia, or all of the housemates, as a consequence. Meanwhile, the latest housemates nominated for eviction this week have been announced as Zak and Henry. Zak received the most nominations with five, while Henry was next with four nominations. This week, they had to vote for two housemates each during the Diary Room nominations. One housemate will face the public vote and be evicted on Friday (20th October). Voting is officially open now. View Green Video on the source website Big Brother continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Family Guy seasons ranked from best to worst
The Griffin family's misadventures have dominated our small screens for over two decades.
If you're looking for an adult animated series to watch, there are currently plenty to choose from. Whether you're a fan of Rick and Morty, Big Mouth, Futurama, The Simpsons, Archer or many other shows, you certainly won't go wanting right now. One of the earliest example of the genre is of course Seth MacFarlane's award-winning series Family Guy, which is still going strong over two decades after it first debuted. The iconic show - known and beloved for its adult humour and pop culture references - follows the Griffins' misadventures in Quahog led by the endearingly non-self-aware Peter (Seth MacFarlane), weary stay-at-home mum Lois (Alex Borstein), awkward daughter Meg (Mila Kunis), hormonal teen son Chris (Seth Green), eccentric, scheming baby Stewie (MacFarlane), and their over-thinking, loyal dog Brian (MacFarlane). The show first arrived in 1999, and is currently airing its 22nd season in the US, while 21 seasons are available to stream in the UK on Disney Plus. Over the years, the show has won a total of 37 awards from Emmys to Teen Choices, and last season it marked its landmark 400th episode. But across its many seasons, which one was the best? Read on as we look back at our favourite seasons of the show, and rank the first 20 from worst to best. Family Guy seasons ranked from worst to best 20) Season 17 (2018) Family Guy's season 17 plays around with its formula with two different episode arcs, but neither showed the comedy at its best. Brian is trapped in a marriage with a dying woman (Casey Wilson) in a two-part arc called Married... with Cancer and Dead Dog Walking, while there's political satire in another two-part arc which focuses on Peter becoming a scaremongering news anchor, which lands him a job as President Trump's press secretary in Hefty Shades of Gray and Trump Guy. Unfortunately, there aren't any standout moments and the show struggled to reach the heights of previous seasons, with far more misses than hits. Watch Family Guy season 17 on Disney Plus 19) Season 12 (2013) Season 12 of Family Guy was hit with fan outrage after a beloved Griffin family member was killed off in a special episode. In Life of Brian, poor Brian gets hit by a car, which prompted an online petition (acquiring over 127,000 signatures) calling for show-runners to resurrect him immediately. However, the creative team were always going to bring him back and while the overall season was one of the show's weakest, at least it tried something different, albeit briefly. Right..? Watch Family Guy season 12 on Disney Plus 18) Season 16 (2017) Family Guy's 16th season is considered one of the least consistent, with glimmers of excellence followed by sub-par episodes. Excellent outings include HTTPete in which Peter attempts to attract millennials to the brewery and adopts the millennial way of life, and Dog Bites Bear, where Stewie and Brian's friendship is put to the test. The season also marks the final appearances of Adam West and Carrie Fisher prior to their sad deaths. Watch Family Guy season 18 on Disney Plus 17) Season 10 (2011) Family Guy's season 10 attempted to delve into more sensitive issues with the controversial episode Screams of Silence: The Story of Brenda Q, which sees Quagmire saving his sister Brenda from an abusive relationship. However, the episode attracted criticism for its depiction of violence and crass handling of a sensitive subject. On a lighter note, the series also features a crossover with American Dad and The Cleveland Show for hurricane-themed episodes, and Ricky Gervais guest stars as a dolphin while Ryan Reynolds guest voices himself. The season is considered by some fans as the start of its decline in terms of consistent quality and humour. Watch Family Guy season 10 on Disney Plus 16) Season 14 (2015) Family Guy season 14 features the series' 250th episode, which is the season premiere, and exciting guest stars including Glenn Close, Anil Kapoor, Kate McKinnon, John Mellencamp, Ed O'Neill, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Kyle Chandler. While none of the episodes were standout classics, there a few fun ones such as Quagmire professing his love for Lois, Stewie becoming a star thanks to a peanut butter advert, Chris running for homecoming king and Brian and Stewie traveling to India to pursue Brian's latest love interest. The series also attempts to tackle prescription drug dependency for children diagnosed with ADHD with the aptly titled episode Pilling Them Softly. Watch Family Guy season 14 on Disney Plus 15) Season 19 (2020) Season 19 of Family Guy arrived with 20 episodes in 2020, with standout ones including Stewie saying his first word, Peter becoming an Italian mob boss, and Peter discovering his arch enemy Ernie the Giant Chicken is dying. Meanwhile, Brian and Stewie's latest adventure sees the pair embarking on a Terminator-esque quest to save Stewie's life. The series was criticised by fans and critics alike for breaking the fourth wall and attempting to deliver political commentary instead of focusing on the eccentric escapades of the Quahog community. Watch Family Guy season 19 on Disney Plus 14) Season 15 (2016) Family Guy's season 15 may have seen a drop in ratings, but this series returned to form with self-contained episodes reflecting contemporary pop culture. In Chris Has Got a Date, Date, Date, Date, Date, Chris asks Taylor Swift to prom, sending up the then-trend of celebs being asked to prom which went viral. Guest stars include Flea, Sean Penn, Frank Sinatra Jr., David Tennant, and Jacob Tremblay. There's also a cameo from the late, great Tony Sirico who voices Vinny, the dog who temporarily replaced Brian in season 12. Watch Family Guy season 15 on Disney Plus 13) Season 13 (2014) Family Guy's season 13 opens with a welcome Simpsons crossover called The Simpsons Guy, which features The Griffins meeting The Simpsons for the first time and staying over after the Griffin family's car is stolen just outside Springfield. Fans particularly enjoyed the pairing of Meg and Lisa and Stewie and Bart. The season also pays homage to Breaking Bad in the episode with Lois and Peter opening a cookie shop, while other fun episodes include Stewie impregnating himself with Brian's DNA, and Meg becoming a foot model. Watch Family Guy season 18 on Disney Plus 12) Season 18 (2019) Season 18 of Family Guy sees Stewie coming out on top with the best episodes and some genuine character development. Set in the future, episode Rich Old Stewie features the former baby as a rich adult living a life of luxury (as if we'd expect anything else), but his life is rudely interrupted with news from Brian that his dad Peter, is dying. Meanwhile, Baby Stewie features Stewie being informed by Brian that he will lose his intelligence at puberty, prompting Stewie to stop the process by rearranging his DNA. The season also included a memorable crossover with Beavis and Butt-Head guest starring Mike Judge reprising his roles as Beavis and Butt-Head. Watch Family Guy season 18 on Disney Plus 11) Season 20 (2021) Family Guy season 20 is the most recent full season at the time of writing - and the jokes land considerably more often than they miss. The series sends up Hollywood's obsession with 1980s nostalgia with the success of Netflix's Stranger Things, and takes aim at HBO and the network's decline in content with episode HBO-No. It also tackles America's opioid crisis with the episode Prescription Heroin, which follows Lois's decline to prescription drug addiction. Watch Family Guy season 20 on Disney Plus 10) Season 1 (1999) Family Guy debuted with seven episodes, making it the shortest season to date. It's considered as a trial run in the series by fans and critics, although it offered a new take on the nuclear, dysfunctional family on TV. Memorable episodes include Peter suffering from television withdrawal, Brian campaigning for his rights after reluctantly taking part in a dog show and Lois becoming a singer in Peter's basement bar. Watch Family Guy season 1 on Disney Plus 9) Season 11 (2012) Family Guy season 11 opens with the Griffin family scaling Mount Everest, while later on Lois experiences a mid-life crisis, Meg falls in love with a boy who prefers her brother, Peter's retells the Nativity story, and Quagmire marries a sex worker when intoxicated. While the series featured well-timed cutaway segments, some fans felt the characterisation was increasingly becoming one-dimensional and flimsy. However, it did feature an impressive cast which featured the likes of JJ Abrams, Jon Hamm, Elizabeth Banks, Sandra Bernhard, Christina Milian and Johnny Depp. Watch Family Guy season 11 on Disney Plus 8) Season 7 (2008) Season 7 of Family Guy includes some of the show's most classic episodes and arguably the best Road to... episode ever. In fact, it became the first animated series to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series since The Flintstones in 1961. Acclaimed episode Road to Germany sees Brian and Stewie teleporting to Nazi Germany, while iconic episode Stew-Roids featuring Stewie getting hench birthed many a meme. Standouts also include Lois becoming a FOX News broadcaster, and Brian's attempt to legalise marijuana, spawning the catchy song Everything's Better with a Bag 0f Weed. Meanwhile, Three Kings cleverly adapts three classic novels by Stephen King, Stand by Me, Misery and The Shawshank Redemption, plus there's real emotion in the episode where Brian can't move on from his ex, voiced by Drew Barrymore. Watch Family Guy season 7 on Disney Plus 7) Season 2 (1999) Family Guy season 2 was when the world started to realise just how witty and darkly hilarious the Griffin family misadventures could be. It features classic episodes in which Brian urinates all over the house before realising he's in love with matriarch Lois, Peter stepping in as the Grim Reaper, Chris revealing his talent as an artist, and Meg pretending Stewie is her son. Season 2 also boasts the show's first ever Road to... episode with Road to Rhode Island, a winning concept which follows Stewie and Brian embarking on a wild quest together. Watch Family Guy season 2 on Disney Plus 6) Season 8 (2009) While the first few episodes of Family Guy season 8 were met with mixed reviews from critics and fans alike, the tail-end of the season received acclaim for dismantling old conventions and trying something more innovative and exciting. Popular episodes include Brian and Stewie traveling into the multiverse, Meg concealing her felon boyfriend in the house and Brian trying to prove that a dog's life is just as worthy as a human's after he accidentally kills another canine. The series takes a darker direction while still retaining its trademark crude humour. The episode Quagmire's Dad, however, received criticism for its portrayal of transgender identity. Meanwhile, final episode Partial Terms of Endearment was banned from being aired by Fox at the time because it featured Lois contemplating an abortion - which we find out she goes through with at the end as communicated at lightning speed by Peter. Defending the episode and it subject matter, Seth MacFarlane told The New York Times: "There's nothing about that issue that should be any different than doing an episode about gay marriage or an episode about the oil spill." BBC Three has aired the episode and it's also available on DVD. Watch Family Guy season 8 on Disney Plus 5) Season 5 (2006) Season 5 of Family Guy is rampant with political incorrectness while featuring some of the most acclaimed episodes in the series, including Barely Legal, Airport '07 and No Chris Left Behind. Barely Legal follows Meg as she crushes on Brian after takes her to prom; Airport '07 sees Quagmire's dreams of becoming a pilot dashed by Peter (and then reinstated), and No Chris Left Behind follows Chris as he's expelled from school for bad grades before being sent to an upper-class academy which shuns his working-class upbringing. Season 5 also really begins to develop the dynamic between Stewie and Brian, which in turn explores the depths of their individual character. The series picked up an Emmy for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation. Watch Family Guy season 5 on Disney Plus 4) Season 9 (2010) Season 9 of Family Guy was brimming with original, unique storylines, laugh out loud jokes and fan favourite episodes. A highlight is episode And Then There Were Fewer, based on Agatha Christie's classic murder mystery novel, And Then There Were None, in which a group of strangers begin to mysteriously die off one by one. The episode descends into murder and mayhem. The series also features the final entry in the Star Wars trilogy, while other standout episodes include Brian's foray into writing, Lois becoming a professional boxer, Brian donating his kidney to Peter, and Road to the North Pole, with Stewie and Brian. Watch Family Guy season 9 on Disney Plus 3) Season 6 (2007) Family Guy's sixth season really celebrated the idiosyncrasies of the inhabitants of Quahog, and incorporated fun pop culture references, with the now-legendary first episode dedicated to the story of Star Wars. Standout episodes also include paraplegic police officer Joe Swanson (Patrick Warburton) deciding to get a leg transplant, Brian discovering that he's a dad, Stewie shooting Lois, Brian professing his undying love for Lois, and Peter turning into a pirate after getting himself a pet parrot. The season was impacted by the Writers Guild of America strike, with only 12 episodes making up the season, but every single one of them is gold. Watch Family Guy season 6 on Disney Plus 2) Season 3 (2001) Family Guy season 3 features the Griffin family on top form with a perfect blend of eccentricity and adult humour, without teetering over into the offensive or controversial. Storylines include Peter enduring a near-death experience, Brian directing a porno, and Peter converting Chris to Judaism. Oh, and Stewie contemplating shrinking himself to wipe out every sperm in Peter's testicles. The episode Brian Wallows and Peter's Swallows was awarded an Emmy for Best Song. Following the show's cancellation, it returned with season 3 before being cancelled again and coming back triumphantly with season 4. Speaking of which... Watch Family Guy season 3 on Disney Plus 1) Season 4 (2005) Season 4 is a fan favourite, returning in a blaze of glory with original and consistently funny storylines after being cancelled due to low ratings in 2002. The show was revived by Fox after reruns on Adult Swim became the network's most-watched series. Memorable episodes include Peter discovering he is legally mentally challenged, Brian starring on The Bachelorette, Lois turning into a kleptomaniac, and Peter penning an erotic novel. In other words, absolutely peak Family Guy. Season 4 also ran for 30 episodes, making it the longest series to date – and a run of episodes that the show has yet to beat. Watch Family Guy season 4 on Disney Plus Family Guy is available to stream on Disney Plus – sign up to Disney Plus for £7.99 a month or £79.90 a year now. Check out more of our Comedy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to see what's on tonight. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who with a special issue of Radio Times. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
My Mum, Your Dad - How does it compare to Love Island?
Davina McCall presents the new ITV1 dating reality series for the over-40s.
To paraphrase Davina McCall, if you took the concept of Love Island, reframed it for mid-lifers, stripped it of any cynicism, prize money and eliminations, swapped villa life for a sophisticated countryside retreat, added the searingly transparent tagline 'does my baggage suit your baggage?' and injected it with even more heart by enabling children to nominate their single parents to take part - then you're getting closer to the affecting, emotional experience that is My Mum, Your Dad. The anticipated reality dating series catering for the over-40s - presented by mid-lifer and mother McCall, who recently found love again with new partner Michael Douglas - follows four mums and four dads as they're put forward by their grown-up sons and daughters to find love again. Or, for some, for the very first time. As the show begins, it becomes clear that it's going to be the progeny in the driving seat of their parents' love lives - both literally and metaphorically - as the kids aren't just driving their mums and dads to the retreat. The show's big twist soon reveals that it will be down to the children to secretly guide their parents on their dates in a nearby bunker, which features a surveillance room where they can watch their parents' every move - including their first dates. Not all of the children are overjoyed at this news, but at least they can cover their faces with the sofa cushions if any lipsing is on the cards... Note: There are no cameras in the bedrooms. If the parents choose to couple up, their children will have to approve it. It's also evident early on that there will be no fire-pit, no declarations of 'I've got a text', no 'Turkey teeth' or cheesy acoustic cover songs playing throughout. Instead, the first episode is inflated by uplifting '80s and '90s power ballads, and we anticipate that these mums and dads are looking for the real deal - not a six-figure one with a fast-fashion brand. The mums are: Monique, 50, a therapist who has been put forward by daughter Taiya, currently expecting her first child; Sharon, 53, a welfare officer, nominated by daughter Tia; Caroline, 51, a scan assistant at a baby clinic, selected by daughter Karli; and Natalie, 44, a relationship coach put forward by son Kaliel. Monique brings a level of intensity to her dates with interrogation-style grilling, perhaps because she was unceremoniously dumped by a long term-partner by text. Sharon is going to be a tough nut to crack, having been cheated on numerous times in relationships, and to borrow a Love Island phrase, she's got her walls up - but will they ever come down? View oEmbed on the source website Watch out, dads, because Caroline is fun, outgoing, vivacious and rocking a tongue piercing - and although she's been married twice, she has yet to find 'The One'. Natalie is a self-described "slow burner" who is cautious about dating again as she's been single for six years. And allow us to introduce the dads: Paul, 47, owner of a decorating company put forward by daughter Mazey; Clayton, 57, a pastoral support officer, put forward by son Christian; Roger, 58, a postman nominated by daughter Jess; and Elliott, a football coach put forward by son Zachary. Once the mums and dads are dropped off by their sons and daughters at the luxury retreat, they're given a glass of Prosecco as they mingle on the lawn. The mums are then given the option of picking a dad for their date, which take place on the grounds of the country manor that Caroline likens to Bridgerton and Clayton hopes out loud is just as "racy". Paul is shy, and we can see that his daughter Mazey would like him to be more self-assured. Clayton is our early favourite, telling his son that "sexual attraction is big" for him, joking about taking a bite like an ant out of his date, and forming some endearing bromances to buoy up some of his fellow dads. Meanwhile, Elliott has never been married but is looking for a wife, and viewers will instantly be rooting for suave postman Roger, who lost his wife a year ago to cancer. An example of the loving relationships between these family members is glimpsed when Roger recalls how he used to enjoy sitting back with a drink to watch the bond between his late wife and daughter Jess, and we defy anyone who doesn't become teary-eyed as he shares this intimate detail into their domestic life. And all is forgiven when he later admits on his first date that he brushes his daughter's dog's teeth with his toothbrush... Unlike Love Island's six-week run, My Mum, Your Dad is only airing for two weeks - with McCall explaining that there are workshops installed at the retreat which are designed to help people get to know one another on a deeper level. As said and experienced by Roger, life is too short, and these mums and dads are more than ready to mingle. Prepare for some new arrivals and Love Island one-liners. Sharon's type is - yes, you guessed it - tall, dark and handsome, and Clayton makes sure he makes eye contact with his date while clinking glasses to prevent "seven years' bad sex", a fear voiced among many a Love Islander over the years. While the show is as addictive as Love Island - and it's possible that the well-dressed Roger, described by Davina McCall as a "style icon", could very well land a six-figure fashion deal when the show comes to end - My Mum, Your Dad is very much in a league of its own. Episode one is life-affirming and aims to reminds us that the perspective, backstories and so-called baggage of older participants in the dating game can only enhance and strengthen their journey and experience - and ours as viewers - as they embark on finding love again. Read more Reality TV: Married at First Sight UK 2023: Speculated release date, latest news and experts Love Island Games: Release date, cast, how to watch, host and news My Mum, Your Dad launches on ITV1 and ITVx on 11th September. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Week three of the competition will feature Cheryl Hole, Jamelia, DJ Locksmith, Sam Fox and Wynne Evans
A new cohort of famous contestants will be going head to head in the Celebrity MasterChef kitchen, as the star-studded cooking competition returns for its 18th season. On the line-up this year are the likes of reality star Luca Bish, actress Amy Walsh and singer Max George - who’ll all be hoping to follow in the footsteps of last year’s winner Lisa Snowdon. Over six weeks, the stars will be taking part in a series of culinary challenges designed to push their gastronomic skills to the limit. So who will flourish in the kitchen and who will flounder under pressure? As ever, John Torode and Gregg Wallace will be on judging duties, so they’ll have the final say on which stars make it through to the next stage of the competition. The competitors will be put through their paces with tasks like Dinner Party Dish and Nostalgia Dish, and will also face the brand new Celebrity Food Truck Challenge. MasterChef series editor Katie Attwood says: "This series is a total treat for Celebrity MasterChef fans – John and Gregg are on sizzling form and the creative dishes that the celebrities deliver need to be seen to be believed. Expect everything and more!" So, when will the next heat of the competition be available to watch? Here's what you need to know about the programme schedule for Celebrity MasterChef 2023. When is Celebrity MasterChef on TV? Season 18 of Celebrity MasterChef returns Wednesday 16th August at 9pm on BBC One. Facing the third heat will be Drag Race UK star Cheryl Hole, singer and actress Jamelia, musician DJ Locksmith, singer and former glamour model Sam Fox and opera star Wynne Evans will be heading into the kitchen this week. The next episode will air on Thursday 17th August at 8pm, and the following episode will arrive on Friday 18th August at 9pm. Celebrity MasterChef release schedule The episodes will air three times a week - on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays - with a total of 18 episodes releasing throughout the whole season. The final will take place after six weeks of the show. Celebrity MasterChef will also be available to stream on BBC iPlayer once episodes are released on BBC One. View Green Video on the source website Celebrity MasterChef continues on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 9pm on Wednesday 16th August. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Sex Education reveals new look at fourth and final season
Netflix's beloved high school comedy-drama concludes this autumn.
Netflix has revealed the first look images of season 4 of Sex Education, as the high school drama draws to a close with its fourth and final season this autumn. The newly released images give viewers a peek at some of the show's fan favourites and best known faces, and a deeper look at how their stories are set to evolve in the new season. Asa Butterfield returns as Otis Milburn in the lead role, alongside his on-screen sex therapist mum Jean (Gillian Anderson), and his friends Eric (Ncuti Gatwa), Maeve (Emma Mackey), Aimee Gibbs (Aimee-Lou Wood), Adam (Connor Swindells) and Jackson (Kedar Williams-Stirling). Joining them for the final season will be Dan Levy (Schitt’s Creek), Thaddea Graham (Doctor Who), Lisa McGrillis (Somewhere Boy), Marie Reuther (Kamikaze), actress and model Jodie Turner-Smith, comedian Eshaan Akbar and newcomers Felix Mufti, Anthony Lexa, Alexandra James, Reda Elazouar, Bella Maclean and Imani Yahshua. Season 4 will follow Otis and Eric as they face a new frontier - their first day at Cavendish Sixth Form College, following the closure of Moordale Secondary. Otis is nervous about setting up his new clinic, while Eric is praying they won't be losers again. Cavendish is a culture shock for all the Moordale students - they thought they were progressive but this new college is shaking. The pupils can look forward to daily yoga in the communal garden, a push for sustainability, and becoming part of a group of kids who are popular for generally being kind and positive. View oEmbed on the source website Meanwhile, Viv is taken aback by the college's student-led, non-competitive approach, while Jackson is still struggling to get over Cal. Aimee decides to take Art A-Level and Adam struggles with whether mainstream education is for him. Sex Education also catches up with Maeve across the pond, who seems to be living her dream at prestigious Wallace University in the US, being taught by cult author Thomas Molloy (Dan Levy). Otis is pining after her, but he has competition for attention at home, and he soon discovers that he's not the only therapist on the college grounds. Sex Education season 4 will launch on Netflix on 21st September. View Green Video on the source website Sex Education seasons 1-3 are streaming now on Netflix. Check out our lists of the best series on Netflix and the best movies on Netflix – or see what else is on with our TV Guide. Visit our Drama hub for all the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Wonder Woman 3 in the works with Gal Gadot and James Gunn on board
Diana Prince is reportedly joining the new era of the DCU as Gal Gadot confirms she's working on a threequel.
Gal Gadot has confirmed that Wonder Woman 3 is in the works, with the Fast X star teaming up with DC bosses James Gunn and Peter Safran for the film. The actor will be reprising her role as Diana Prince for the threequel following on from 2017's Wonder Woman and 2020's Wonder Woman 1984. "I love portraying Wonder Woman," Gadot told ComicBook.com. "It's so close to and dear to my heart. From what I heard from James and from Peter is that we're gonna develop a Wonder Woman 3 together." In December 2022, it was reported that a third Wonder Woman movie from director Patty Jenkins would no longer be happening, after Jenkins submitted a draft for the third movie which didn't align with the vision of new DC Studios CEOs, Gunn and Safran, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Jenkins said she didn't walk away from the project, posting on Twitter: "The attractive clickbait false story that it was me that killed it or walked away started to spread. This is simply not true. I never walked away. "DC is obviously buried in changes they are having to make, so I understand these decisions are difficult right now." Before today, it wasn't certain whether Wonder Woman would be included in the new DC era, which is set to kick off with Superman: Legacy in 2025. When Gunn and Safran's new slate of projects was announced, the only Wonder Woman project on the list was a prequel TV show titled Paradise Lost. Paradise Lost is the name of a two-part comic book story arc written by Phil Jimenez, which features Diana travelling to Gotham City to stop the Joker, the Scarecrow and Poison Ivy from turning the Dark Knight's city into the fuse for a worldwide conflagration. No further cast news has been announced for Wonder Woman 3. It's possible we might see some supporting players return for more, such as Chris Pine as Steve Trevor (if they can figure out a way to bring him back again), but there are no confirmations at this stage. Read more Ice Cube on TMNT: “Franchise can live on another 30 years after this” Barbie is not just ‘white feminism’ – it's for everybody Check out more of our Film coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on tonight. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Virgin River unveils first look at season 5 in new pics
Prepare for devastating wildfires and testy court trials as season 5 edges closer.
Virgin River has unveiled its first look at season 5 with a series of new pictures, as fans prepare for more paternity drama, rural drug kingpins and a testy court trial when the popular drama returns to Netflix in September. Fans can also look forward to two very special Christmas episodes this year, which will debut on 30th November. The series follows the residents of Northern California's Virgin River, including mayor Hope (Annette O’Toole), town MD Doc (Tim Matheson), bar proprietor Jack (Martin Henderson), nurse practitioner Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge) and chef Preacher (Colin Lawrence). The new images feature Zibby Allen's Brie in court, while Lydie (Christina Jastrzembska), Muriel (Teryl Rothery), Jo Ellen (Gwynyth Walsh), Lizzie (Sarah Dugdale), Hope and Connie (Nicola Cavendish) enjoy a therapeutic spa. There's a dramatic turn, though, as Hope and Preacher witness a devastating wildfire that engulfs the mountains. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2023/08/VirginRivernS5E400290518R-5738c9b-e1690978594837.jpg" width="2700" height="1800" alt="Christina Jastrzembska as Lydie, Teryl Rothery as Muriel St. Claire, Gwynyth Walsh as Jo Ellen, Sarah Dugdale as Lizzie, Annette O’Toole as Hope, Nicola Cavendish as Connie in episode 504 of Virgin River. Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2023" title="Virgin_River_n_S5_E4_00_29_05_18R" /> The synopsis for the show's return reads: "Season 5 has teased new relationships, an unexpected break-up, a testy court trial, a heartbreaking goodbye, and a wildfire that threatens the town - bringing some residents of Virgin River together while tearing others apart. "Issues of motherhood will prompt Mel to make a big decision about her future at the clinic, while her pregnancy leads to an emotional connection to her past." Meanwhile Jack, in a bid to prove his worth to Mel, will finally face some overdue confrontations, and as Doc and Hope’s respective impairments throw their identities into question, the doctor and the mayor must find solace in their community, in their young new family, and in each other. Fans will also be hoping that season 5 will offer some resolutions when it comes to Vince, Paige, Christopher and Preacher, as well as Denny’s prognosis - and just what kind of trouble has Brady gotten himself into this time? Plus there's the big question on everyone's lips is: who, exactly, is the father of Charmaine’s babies? Patrick Sean Smith joins season 5 as showrunner, telling Netflix he "couldn’t be prouder to join the Virgin River family. Together with its stellar cast and amazing crew, we’ve got great things in store for our fans worldwide." The first 10 episodes of Virgin River season 5 will debut on Netflix on 7th September. An additional two holiday-themed episodes will debut on 30th November. View Green Video on the source website Virgin River season 4 is available to stream on Netflix. Check out our lists of the best series on Netflix and the best movies on Netflix – or see what else is on with our TV Guide. Visit our Drama hub for all the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Challengers reveals new look at Josh O'Connor and Mike Faist in action
Zendaya co-stars with the pair in the romantic sports drama from Call Me By Your Name director Luca Guadagnino.
Challengers has released a new look at Josh O'Connor and Mike Faist in action on the tennis court in Luca Guadagnino's sensual sports drama based on a three-way love triangle. The film follows Zendaya as professional tennis player Tashi Duncan, while West Side Story's Mike Faist plays her husband, Art, a champion on a losing streak. Tashi’s plan for Art’s comeback takes an unexpected turn when he must play against Patrick (The Crown's Josh O’Connor) – his former best friend and her former boyfriend – in the Challengers tennis tournament, which soon reignites old rivalries and tensions. The new images from Empire magazine feature Faist's Art and O'Connor's Patrick shirtless, facing off on the side of the court, with Patrick smiling and eating a banana as he looks toward Art - who ignores his eye contact and looks straight ahead instead. Meanwhile, Faist has revealed that director Guadagnino (Call Me By Your Your Name) only had a "vague interest in certain tennis and was more interested in the bodies and sweat". View oEmbed on the source website Speaking to Empire, Faist added: “He [Guadagnino] had no knowledge of tennis going into this." Instead, the director was more interested in capturing the physicality and emotion of the characters than the specifics of the sport. Zendaya said: "What Luca’s really good at is finding sensuality and desire. There’s so much in just glances. The tension builds. Not having the release is a good thing sometimes." O'Connor added: “The tennis is the sex. Those moments are so sexy. The film is dealing with the tension before and after. The sex they’re all desperate for is on the court.” Guadagnino previously told IndieWire that the feature would be his “first comedy” before describing it as “a fairly fizzy, sexy movie about the world of tennis”. To get into the role of a tennis player, it was reported that Zendaya trained for three months with former pro Brad Gilbert, who also served as a consultant on the film, according to Variety. “We edited the movie and we almost actually don't use any of her double. She's so good," Guadagnino told the publication of Zendaya. Challengers will arrive in cinemas on 15th September, 2023. Read more of our Film coverage, or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to see what's on tonight. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Strictly's Anton Du Beke recalls being stabbed by abusive father in emotional TV interview
The dancer said the revelations would shock friends and family as he hasn't spoken publicly about the incident before.
Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has revealed that he was stabbed by his father in his leg and stomach on Boxing Day during his childhood. The ballroom dancer made the admission while appearing on Kate Garraway’s Life Stories, airing tonight (Wednesday 2nd August) at 9pm on ITV, detailing that the attack happened at his former family home in Kent, and left him in hospital for three days. "I got stabbed in the leg and in the stomach because of a fight on Boxing Day, and it was an idiotic situation," Du Beke told Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway. "I remember walking out of the house to walk up to the hospital holding my leg and a police car drove past and I waved them down and I said: 'He's in there with a knife.'" He continued: "Anyway, they carted him off and I ended up in hospital for three or four days. My only concern was getting back into the studio and dancing and the embarrassment of it." Following the incident, Du Beke said he was so embarrassed by what happened that he told people he had a hamstring injury. He added that the revelations were bound to shock friends and family as it was the first time he's spoken about the stabbing publicly. Du Beke explained that his father, who struggled with alcoholism, was cleared in court over the attack. The star, born to a Spanish mother and Hungarian father, grew up on a council estate in Sevenoaks, Kent. His love for dancing began after he watched his sister perform at a local studio. While his mother was encouraging of his pastime, his father derided it. Du Beke said that his father's volatile behaviour was impacted by his addiction to alcohol. “The alcoholism and the violence … [it was] towards me, because I was a boy, a young man I suppose," he continued. "You've got an alcoholic father and a situation where, if you’re in the house, [he’s] drinking, then you end up with the fights and stuff. "You'd move room to get away from all of it and then he follows you in, and the next thing you know the violence starts. And then it came to a head one evening, I ended up in hospital for three days." Du Beke, who joined Strictly from its inception in 2004, is the longest-serving professional dancer on the ballroom competition. He took over as judge from Bruno Tonioli in 2021, and will be returning to the panel when the show returns to BBC One in the autumn. Read more Boris Johnson denies he's "in talks" for I'm a Celebrity 2023 Love Island's Lochan 'shocked' to finish runner-up with Whitney Speaking of her interview with the 57-year-old, Garraway said: "Anton Du Beke is a character that’s larger than life but also, as I already knew from my time with dancing on Strictly, very private. "He has a philosophy about his relationship with his fans that he is there to bring joy into their lives and doesn’t want to share any of his own troubles. "But with me he does, and it showed a huge leap of trust on his part, because many of the things we talked about he hadn’t even really talked about even with his close family, and I felt so honoured to be able to help him to share it." The broadcaster will also be joined by Ruby Wax on her Life Stories, which continues next Wednesday at 9pm on ITV. View Green Video on the source website Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Autumn. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Who was Lewis Strauss? Robert Downey Jr role in Oppenheimer explained
Here's everything you need to know about Robert Downey Jr's role in the biopic.
Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer has blasted its way into cinemas, racking up a huge box office haul (that was nevertheless dwarfed by Barbie's enormous taking). The intrigue around both films with no doubt have been heightened because of their all-star casts, with Nolan's three-hour epic starring the likes of Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon and Emily Blunt. Murphy stars as J Robert Oppenheimer in the film, which details his role in the development of the atomic bomb, which changed the world and the role of geopolitics forever. Another major role in the film is taken by Iron Man star Robert Downey Jr, who plays US businessman and naval officer Lewis Lichtenstein Strauss. But who was Lewis Strauss and what was his involvement in the creation of the atomic bomb? Find out everything you need to know below. Who was Lewis Strauss? Oppenheimer's Robert Downey Jr role explained Born in 1896, Lewis was an American financier, philanthropist, naval officer and government official who served as Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission. He was a major figure in the development of nuclear weapons, the nuclear energy policy of the United States, and nuclear power in the United States. Early life Strauss was born in Charleston, West Virginia, the son of Rosa (Lichtenstein) and Lewis Strauss, a successful shoe wholesaler. Their parents were Jewish emigrants from Germany and Austria, who came to the US in the 1830s and 1840s and settled in Virginia. Strauss had planned to study physics, but due to the recession of 1913 impacting his father's business, his parents could not afford to send him to college. Strauss became an assistant to Herbert Hoover (US president between 1929 to 1933) as part of relief efforts during and after World War I. He also worked as an investment banker at Kuhn, Loeb & Co in the 1920s and '30s, amassing a huge fortune and becoming a self-made millionaire. After the death of his mother from cancer, Strauss founded the Lewis and Rosa Strauss Memorial Fund to finance the use of radium as a treatment method. It was because of this that he first met physicist Leo Szilard, who wrote to Strauss telling him of the Hahn-Strassmann paper on the discovery of fission in the hope that Strauss would fund his research. During the Second World War, Strauss joined the Navy’s Department of Ordnance to work on weapons production. In 1946, President Truman appointed Strauss as a member of the newly-created Atomic Energy Commission (AEC). He eventually rose to become its commissioner. When the Soviets tested their first atomic bomb in 1949, Strauss encouraged the development of thermonuclear weapons. Strauss and Oppenheimer <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2023/07/GettyImages-514870118-723dc9b.jpg" width="3959" height="3121" alt="The Atomic Energy Commission, shown here in session in 1954, voted 4-1 to deny security clearance to Dr. J. R. Oppenheimer.All the members shown, Commissioners Thomas E. Murray, Eugene Zuckert, Joseph Campbell and Chairman Lewis Strauss, voted to uphold the majority recommendation of a Personnel Security Review Board that Oppenheimer not be given a security clearance.The AEC denied his clearance because of what they called "fundamental defects in his character."" title="Atomic Energy Commission Members Seated" /> During his terms as an AEC commissioner, Strauss became hostile to Oppenheimer, who had been director of the Los Alamos Laboratory during the Manhattan Project and remained in influential positions in atomic energy. Strauss, a conservative Republican, disliked Oppenheimer, a liberal who had had Communist associations. Oppenheimer had seemingly left his Jewish heritage behind, whereas Strauss had become successful, despite the anti-Semitic environment of Washington. Oppenheimer was a leading opponent of moving ahead with the hydrogen bomb and proposed a national security strategy based on atomic weapons and continental defence, while Strauss wanted the development of thermonuclear weapons and a doctrine of deterrence. Strauss distrusted Oppenheimer and even thought he could be a Soviet spy. In 1953, Strauss asked FBI Director J Edgar Hoover to initiate surveillance to track Oppenheimer's movements. Strauss viewed Oppenheimer as a threat to American security. Oppenheimer had his security clearance revoked in 1954 for alleged communist ties. Did the Oppenheimer scandal cost Strauss a government position? Strauss later was involved in a long and drawn-out process to become the US Secretary of Commerce under President Eisenhower, having turned down the chance to be his Chief of Staff and took the position on a recess appointment. There were concerns that Strauss had made too many enemies in the Democrat Party as well as the whole affair with Oppenheimer, with Time magazine calling him "one of the nation's ablest and thorniest public figures.". Usually, an appointment to this position would be swiftly confirmed by the Senate, but Senator Clinton Anderson fought to oppose Strauss' confirmation amid a long-running feud. During the hearings, Strauss was thought to have exaggerated his contributions to developing the hydrogen bomb, angering former President Truman who turned on him. Strauss was also widely criticised by much of the scientific community for his treatment of Oppenheimer during the hearings and the issue of his appointment became national news and highly contentious. In the end, the committee voted in favour of confirming him but various political factors in the makeup of the US Congress meant that the Senate did not vote through Strauss' confirmation. Afterwards, Strauss resigned from his recess appointment as US Secretary of Commerce. Final years of Lewis Strauss Following the disastrous process to be appointed US Secretary of Commerce, Strauss' career in politics had more or less nosedived. Withdrawing from much official influence, Strauss remained on good terms with former presidents Herbert Hoover and Eisenhower. Strauss primarily focused on philanthropic activities in his later years, before suffering from lymphosarcoma until he died on January 21, 1974, in Trenton, New Jersey, at the age of 77. Read More Oppenheimer review: Cillian Murphy is stunning in explosive epic Meet the cast of Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer Oppenheimer true story: Who was J. Robert Oppenheimer? Where was Oppenheimer filmed? Filming locations explained How did Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer film atomic bomb sequences? Who was Kitty Oppenheimer? Oppenheimer's Emily Blunt role explained Who was Jean Tatlock? Oppenheimer's Florence Pugh role explained Who was Leslie Groves? Matt Damon's Oppenheimer role explained Oppenheimer's Emily Blunt and Matt Damon praise "mesmeric" Cillian Murphy Cillian Murphy gives opinion on Oppenheimer: 'I tried not to judge him' Cillian Murphy supports plans for Barbie and Oppenheimer double-bill Oppenheimer is now showing in UK cinemas. Check out more of our Film coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Doctor Who fans think Twelfth Doctor, Amy Pond are returning
Russell T Davies has fans speculating that Karen Gillan and Peter Capaldi could be back with emoji tease.
Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies has fans wondering whether his recent emoji tease on Instagram signals the return of Peter Capaldi as the Twelfth Doctor and Karen Gillan as Amy Pond. The BBC's official Doctor Who Instagram posted a video promoting the second of this year's 60th anniversary specials featuring David Tennant – who will now play the Fourteenth Doctor alongside Catherine Tate as Donna Noble – titled Wild Blue Yonder. Along with the clip, Doctor Who added the caption: "What else is awaiting the Doctor and Donna?" Commenting underneath, Davies shared a string of emojis including an apple, which fans have suggested could be a reference to Amy. Davies wrote: "Oh my God, that’s [bell emoji] and then they [apple emoji] and [clock emoji] until [explosion emoji] [fire emoji] [lightning emoji] [penguin emoji]." View oEmbed on the source website Following the Eleventh Doctor's regeneration, he thought he wanted an apple but, upon being given one, found that he didn't like them. Amy Pond also disliked apples when she was young, until her mother began carving smiley faces into them. Pond then gave an apple with a carved smiley face on it to the Doctor, who promised to keep it for later. After travelling forward 12 years, the Doctor was able to prove his identity to the now-grown Amy Pond by showing her the same apple, still fresh. Some fans thought the 12 o'clock emoji could signify Capaldi's Twelfth Doctor return. View oEmbed on the source website The beloved BBC sci-fi celebrates its 60th anniversary later this year, which sees various legends return for three special episodes, and welcomes a new Doctor into the fold. Meanwhile, Bernard Cribbins was spotted on the set of the series reprising his beloved role as Donna's grandfather, Wilfred Mott, shortly before the sad news of his death at the age of 93. Fans have also seen Jacqueline King filming as Donna's mother Sylvia Noble and Karl Collins as Donna's husband Shaun Temple. It's a Sin star Neil Patrick Harris will reunite with Davies to play a mysterious antagonistic role in the specials. Heartstopper actress Yasmin Finney will be joining the series as Rose. The date of the 60th anniversary falls on 23rd November 2023. After this, the first official instalment of Ncuti Gatwa's Fifteenth Doctor is expected to be released over the festive period of 2023/2024. View Green Video on the source website Doctor Who is available to stream on BBC iPlayer with episodes of the classic series also available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. For more, check out our dedicated Sci-Fi page or our full TV Guide and Streaming Guide. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Channel 4 confirms cast for The Gathering from Line of Duty producer
The series centres around a violent attack on a teenage girl during a rave.
Channel 4 has announced the cast for The Gathering, a six-part drama from the producers of Jed Mercurio's Line of Duty and Vigil. The series centres around a violent attack on a teenage girl during a rave on a tidal islet, and filming in Merseyside has officially begun. The drama, written by award-winning novelist Helen Walsh, revolves around a group of teens from disparate backgrounds, each of whom could have committed the crime, along with their parents - who give equal cause for suspicion. Newcomer Eva Morgan and Sadie Soverall (Little Bone Lodge) will lead the cast as Kelly and Jessica respectively, alongside Vinette Robinson (Boiling Point) as Jessica's aggressively pushy mother Natalie. Warren Brown (The Responder) will star as Kelly’s hard working single parent Paul, and Richard Coyle (Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore) as successful solicitor Jules. The story follows Kelly, the young victim of the attack, who is an accomplished gymnast on the pathway to world-class competitions. However, she's at odds with her teammates and their competitive parents. Kelly also socialises with a group of urban free-runners, whose reckless lifestyle and exuberant free-spirit is in conflict with the discipline and restrictions Kelly experiences in the tightly controlled world of competitive sport. Read more: Heartstopper creator reveals one thing she changed due to fan criticism Outlander's Sam Heughan teases new "steamy" series The Couple Next Door Of the drama, Channel 4 said: "The Gathering interrogates the ways in which today’s parents impose their agendas and issues upon their teenagers. It explores the balance between allowing teens their freedom, while ensuring their safety in a world where social media can create fame and notoriety overnight – and cancel it, and our children, at the flick of a thumb. And asks whether it’s responsible to be overly invested in our kids, or irresponsible not to know what they're up to? "This multi-layered story is a drama for our times." Walsh, who makes her TV writing debut, said in a statement: "I'm thrilled to have a brilliant cast on board led by such established talent. Our young actors, many of whom are newcomers, have wowed us with their raw and heartfelt depictions of teenagers having to navigate adult problems in morally ambiguous worlds." The Gathering will air on Channel 4. If you're looking for more to watch, check out our TV Guide and Streaming Guide or visit our Drama hub for more news and features. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Strictly pro will be missing from group dances as injury rules him out
Giovanni Pernice will be absent from some of the pre-recorded numbers.
Giovanni Pernice will be absent from Strictly Come Dancing rehearsals and some of the pre-recorded group dances after sustaining an injury on his current tour. The professional dancer is on the final week of his Him & Me tour with Strictly judge Anton Du Beke, which features the ballroom stars dancing and singing together on stage. Pernice will no longer be able to perform in the last few shows, and he won't be able to join his Strictly co-stars for upcoming rehearsals for the series this weekend. The dancer shared the news with fans in a video clip he posted on Instagram, explaining: "As you probably know I’m on tour at the moment with Anton and doing one of the dances I did twist my ankle on stage. "I have just been to the doctor, to the physio, and he advised [me] to rest for a few weeks, which means I’m not going to be able to dance at the weekend. "I know a few people are coming. I will still be there to entertain you with my other half Anton Du Beke. We will be singing along but unfortunately Anton will do the dancing bit." The star continued: "This also means that I am going to miss a few of the Strictly professional group numbers, but I just need to give some rest to my ankle and come back stronger than ever for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing - which I’m really looking forward to. "Sending lots of love to everyone out there and stay strong.” The BBC has confirmed that Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and head judge Shirley Ballas are all returning from last year as the Strictly Come Dancing 2023 judges. Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly will be back to host proceedings. The Strictly professional line-up has also been announced, and will include Dianne Buswell, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Johannes Radebe, Jowita Przystał, Gorka Márquez, Carlos Gu and Vito Coppola. Nadiya Bychkova, Graziano Di Prima, Neil Jones and Nikita Kuzmin have also signed up. Amy Dowden will no longer be returning as she undergoes treatment for breast cancer. Dowden surprised her Strictly co-stars earlier this week by making an impromptu appearance at rehearsals. The star shared a picture of the pro-dancers posing together and added the caption: "I surprised the gang! Just what I needed! Seeing the @bbcstrictly family! Going to be an amazing series and I can’t wait to watch you all shine and be with you all when I can!" View Green Video on the source website Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this autumn. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
ITV will "closely monitor" James Martin productions after complaints
The broadcaster will continue to work with Martin and his production company.
ITV will "closely monitor" James Martin productions following complaints about his on-set behaviour. According to Deadline, the broadcaster will also continue to work with Martin and his Blue Marlin Television production company going forward. Blue Marlin has been instructed by ITV to update its processes to ensure it reflects "best practice" with regards to its staff and working environment. A statement provided to RadioTimes.com this week by ITV confirmed that discussions had taken place between the broadcaster and Martin's production company and reiterated that "people and their welfare are our highest priority". Complaints were made about the celebrity chef by members of his crew during production on his food travel series James Martin's Spanish Adventure. A senior figure at ITV spoke to Martin, who was directed to change his behaviour after a complaint about his conduct was launched in May. It was reported that it was the second time an issue had been raised in recent years following an earlier incident in 2018 when major damage was caused to Martin's house during filming. Martin and Blue Marlin have also acknowledged that "lessons have been learned" following the conversations with ITV and members of his crew. The ITV statement read: "The production companies who make shows for us have primary responsibility for the duty of care of everyone they work with, both on and off-screen. "We make clear our expectations in this regard as part of our pre-greenlight duty of care processes. This includes having appropriate independent controls in place to enable everyone who works on their shows to confidently and confidentially raise concerns." It continued: “Following a complaint we received in May from members of the Blue Marlin production team about the filming of James Martin's Spanish Adventure, we contacted Blue Marlin to discuss these concerns and to understand how the issues raised were being addressed and what actions were being taken. "As a result, we made a number of recommendations for Blue Marlin to implement as soon as possible, sharing best practice of some of our own relevant procedures around staff welfare and reiterating our Supplier Code of Conduct." Meanwhile, an official statement from Blue Marlin – signed by Martin and managing director Fiona Lindsay – added further context to the aforementioned 2018 incident and confirmed that both Martin and Blue Marlin are in the process of implementing a number of recommendations from ITV. "An unfortunate incident occurred after filming James Martin's Saturday Morning in 2018 where James's home was badly damaged. Blue Marlin Television accepted responsibility," it read. "James was shocked by what had happened and on reflection acknowledges he responded emotionally, which he wholly regrets. James apologises for any offence or upset caused, as he did at the time to the crew involved." The statement continued: "Following this and some issues filming James Martin's Spanish Adventures, James and Blue Marlin Television agree that lessons have been learned which have been discussed with members of the team and with ITV. "Blue Marlin Television and James Martin have taken on board ITV's recommendations and their sharing of best practice, and are in the process of fully implementing. Since the 2018 incident, Blue Marlin Television has continued to film over 500 shows at James's home." It concluded: "Blue Marlin Television remains committed to ensuring the welfare of all those with whom they work is of the utmost priority". Blue Marlin Television have not responded to further request for comment. Looking for something to watch tonight? Check out what is on with our TV Guide and Streaming Guide. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Sinéad O'Connor documentary director: 'She was dismissed and reduced'
The film Nothing Compares will be released on Sky Documentaries and NOW on 29th July.
The director of a Sinéad O'Connor documentary has spoken about how she was compelled to make the film in retaliation to the way the Irish singer was "dismissed and reduced" by the press. Kathryn Ferguson's critically acclaimed documentary Nothing Compares follows the career of O'Connor through her rise to fame and how her iconoclastic personality led to her exile from the pop mainstream. It had a brief cinematic release in 2022 and is arriving on Sky Documentaries and Now this weekend. Sadly, it comes just days after the iconic singer died aged 56 at her home in London. Speaking to RadioTimes.com prior to O'Connor's death, Ferguson described the indelible influence the singer had on her life as a young woman growing up in Belfast, and the "emotional dent" that was left when O'Connor was "demoralised" following a backlash from the media. The backlash came in response to her infamous 1992 performance on Saturday Night Live, a focal point of the documentary which recalls the moment the singer tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II on the US TV sketch show. View oEmbed on the source website "I grew up in Belfast during the '80s and '90s," the director told RadioTimes.com. "In 1992 when the backlash against Sinéad began I was a pre-teen schoolgirl and passionate fan. Sinéad had been playing on MTV constantly, then she just kind of vanished. "It showed me: here's somebody that's amazing and incredible, and she's been dismissed and reduced to the point where I can't see her any more. What does that say to a young woman? For me, as a young Belfast girl, it was just demoralising. And it left an emotional dent on me." Ferguson continued: "In that moment the seeds were sown for Nothing Compares. I finally met her in 2012 when as a young director I was asked to direct a music video for Sinéad's track 4th and Vine. Meeting her reminded me of all the feelings I'd felt as a teenager and that's where it all started." The documentary film has already enjoyed success in the US, with the poster featuring on a giant billboard in the middle of Times Square, which Ferguson described as "the most satisfying moment for me". "It dawned on me that surely one of the last times her image would have been shown in Times Square was in October 1992, when crowds were steamrolling over her records after the SNL incident. It felt quite profound to see this giant picture of her face, back where she belongs after 30 years." O'Connor had become enraged by abuse scandals in the Catholic Church in Ireland at the time. She spoke later in life about her own history of sexual, emotional and physical abuse at the hands of her mother, and revealed that she had taken the photo of Pope John Paul II from her mother's bedroom wall shortly after her death. Reflecting on the moment in her 2021 memoir Rememberings, the singer wrote. "My intention had always been to destroy my mother's photo of the pope. "I carefully brought it everywhere I lived from that day forward, because nobody ever gave a s**t about the children of Ireland." Ferguson expressed her devastation over the death of O'Connor while speaking on today's (27th July) BBC Radio 4's Front Row. "I just found out an hour ago. I'm devastated to hear the desperate news about Sinéad," she commented. "Our film, really for me, it was a love letter to Sinéad. It was made over many, many years. And made because of the impact she had made on me as a young girl growing up in Ireland." The filmmaker also shared an image of her with O'Connor on social media, writing: "Devastated. We were so lucky to have her." View oEmbed on the source website Nothing Compares will be released on Sky Documentaries and NOW on Saturday 29th July – you can sign up for Sky TV here. For more news, interviews and features, visit our Drama hub, or find something to watch now with our TV Guide and Streaming Guide. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.