Kim Woodburn has said that Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield should have been fired from This Morning over “queuegate”.
The Celebrity Big Brother star, 80, shared her thoughts on the drama during a recent appearance on the Not My Bagg podcast.
Last year, the ITV presenters found themselves in the middle of a scandal – dubbed “queuegate” – after they were accused of “jumping the queue” to see the Queen’s coffin lying-in-state before her funeral.
Both Schofield and Willoughby denied the accusations, stating that they would “never jump a queue”.
ITV supported the pair, claiming that they were “there in a professional capacity as part of the world’s media to report on the event”.
Speaking about the incident, Woodburn told hosts Joe and George Baggs: “They were not asked to cover the Queen’s funeral.
“They sneaked in and they put these imitation press things they got, they sneaked in...
The Celebrity Big Brother star, 80, shared her thoughts on the drama during a recent appearance on the Not My Bagg podcast.
Last year, the ITV presenters found themselves in the middle of a scandal – dubbed “queuegate” – after they were accused of “jumping the queue” to see the Queen’s coffin lying-in-state before her funeral.
Both Schofield and Willoughby denied the accusations, stating that they would “never jump a queue”.
ITV supported the pair, claiming that they were “there in a professional capacity as part of the world’s media to report on the event”.
Speaking about the incident, Woodburn told hosts Joe and George Baggs: “They were not asked to cover the Queen’s funeral.
“They sneaked in and they put these imitation press things they got, they sneaked in...
- 1/27/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Mia Goth has weighed in on the debate about the Oscars not giving horror films serious consideration when deciding nominees.
The actor is one of the leading stars in Pearl, a prequel film to X, a slasher flick about the cast and crew of an adult film trying to evade murder by their elderly hosts.
Considered an homage to 1970s horror cinema, Pearl has received high praise from critics and audiences.
However, the Ti West-directed picture was shut out of the Academy Awards conversation when the nominees were announced earlier this week.
Entertainment journalist Jake Hamilton addressed this during an interview with Goth and Alexander Skarsgård, who both star in the forthcoming film Infinity Pool.
After saying that Goth’s performance in Pearl was deserving of an Academy Award nomination, Hamilton asked her thoughts on why horror “masterpieces” have been largely under-rewarded over the years.
“I think that it’s very political,...
The actor is one of the leading stars in Pearl, a prequel film to X, a slasher flick about the cast and crew of an adult film trying to evade murder by their elderly hosts.
Considered an homage to 1970s horror cinema, Pearl has received high praise from critics and audiences.
However, the Ti West-directed picture was shut out of the Academy Awards conversation when the nominees were announced earlier this week.
Entertainment journalist Jake Hamilton addressed this during an interview with Goth and Alexander Skarsgård, who both star in the forthcoming film Infinity Pool.
After saying that Goth’s performance in Pearl was deserving of an Academy Award nomination, Hamilton asked her thoughts on why horror “masterpieces” have been largely under-rewarded over the years.
“I think that it’s very political,...
- 1/27/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - Film
Freddie Flintoff is reportedly putting his TV career “on hold” following his horrific car crash in December on the set of Top Gear.
Last month, the cricketer-turned-presenter was airlifted to hospital after crashing while filming a car review at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome, home of the Top Gear test track.
Now, new reports have claimed that Flintoff – real name Andrew – is lying low professionally after his family “begged” him to stop work while he recovered from the accident.
The Sun reports that the former England player, who shares four children with wife Rachael, has come to terms with the fact that he “could have been killed” in the accident and needs months off to recover.
“The full extent of his injuries will surprise many people, as the details of what happened have yet to fully emerge,” a source told the publication.
“He is putting his career on hold until he is...
Last month, the cricketer-turned-presenter was airlifted to hospital after crashing while filming a car review at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome, home of the Top Gear test track.
Now, new reports have claimed that Flintoff – real name Andrew – is lying low professionally after his family “begged” him to stop work while he recovered from the accident.
The Sun reports that the former England player, who shares four children with wife Rachael, has come to terms with the fact that he “could have been killed” in the accident and needs months off to recover.
“The full extent of his injuries will surprise many people, as the details of what happened have yet to fully emerge,” a source told the publication.
“He is putting his career on hold until he is...
- 1/27/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Populist Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg is getting his own TV show... on populist channel Gb News.
On Thursday (26 January), the right-wing broadcaster announced that the Tory MP for North East Somerset is set to host his own current affairs programme.
He joins presenters including Nigel Farage and Eammon Holmes on the fledgling channel, which was launched back in June 2021.
The programme will see Rees-Mogg, a backbench politician known for his eccentric anachronisms and far-right views, discuss topical issues and interview guests.
The channel’s editorial director Mick Booker said in a statement: “Jacob is an authentic and authoritative voice of the Tory backbenches with his trademark common sense, refreshing directness, and an impish sense of fun. He’s a terrific addition to the Gb News family.”
He added: “The programme will embrace a range of guests and viewpoints from all sides of politics but will also explore some of Jacob’s other wide-ranging interests.
On Thursday (26 January), the right-wing broadcaster announced that the Tory MP for North East Somerset is set to host his own current affairs programme.
He joins presenters including Nigel Farage and Eammon Holmes on the fledgling channel, which was launched back in June 2021.
The programme will see Rees-Mogg, a backbench politician known for his eccentric anachronisms and far-right views, discuss topical issues and interview guests.
The channel’s editorial director Mick Booker said in a statement: “Jacob is an authentic and authoritative voice of the Tory backbenches with his trademark common sense, refreshing directness, and an impish sense of fun. He’s a terrific addition to the Gb News family.”
He added: “The programme will embrace a range of guests and viewpoints from all sides of politics but will also explore some of Jacob’s other wide-ranging interests.
- 1/26/2023
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Jeremy Vine snorted with laughter after political commentator Marina Purkiss took a dig at the Conservative Party in front of a disapproving Ann Widdecombe.
During Thursday (26 January) morning’s episode of Vine’s Channel 5 show, the presenter was joined by his panellists to discuss a study by Samsung claiming that more than three million pensioners play video games every day.
Former Tory minister Widdecombe, 75, was among the guests and sat down to play a game of Mario Kart, which she did not enjoy.
Vine asked Purkiss, a podcaster and regular panellist on the show, what she thought, to which she responded: “There are probably better games for you, Ann.
“For example, I used to love Grand Theft Auto. It tells you how to prosper in a criminal world, like being in the Tory party. You’d love it.”
Vine stifled laughter, telling Purkiss: “There we are. It’s always gotta happen.
During Thursday (26 January) morning’s episode of Vine’s Channel 5 show, the presenter was joined by his panellists to discuss a study by Samsung claiming that more than three million pensioners play video games every day.
Former Tory minister Widdecombe, 75, was among the guests and sat down to play a game of Mario Kart, which she did not enjoy.
Vine asked Purkiss, a podcaster and regular panellist on the show, what she thought, to which she responded: “There are probably better games for you, Ann.
“For example, I used to love Grand Theft Auto. It tells you how to prosper in a criminal world, like being in the Tory party. You’d love it.”
Vine stifled laughter, telling Purkiss: “There we are. It’s always gotta happen.
- 1/26/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Craig Revel Horwood has questioned Hamza Yassin’s Strictly Come Dancing win.
The judge shared his candid views on the subject while discussing the BBC competition’s latest series on Magic Radio.
Wildlife presenter Yassin was announced as the latest winner of Strictly in December 2022, and he beat Helen Skelton and Fleur East to take home the Glitterball trophy.
However, Horwood believes that, while Yassin “did an absolutely spectacular job”, East should have won the series.
“Fleur, can I say this on Magic, darling? She was robbed,” he told presenters Ronan Keating and Harriet Scott.
“There you go – that’s just me,” he continued.
“I mean, I absolutely love Fleur. For me, in the final, anyone could have won. I think Hamza did an absolutely spectacular job and he had all the audience behind him, which is really important as well.
“But I thought Fleur really came out of her...
The judge shared his candid views on the subject while discussing the BBC competition’s latest series on Magic Radio.
Wildlife presenter Yassin was announced as the latest winner of Strictly in December 2022, and he beat Helen Skelton and Fleur East to take home the Glitterball trophy.
However, Horwood believes that, while Yassin “did an absolutely spectacular job”, East should have won the series.
“Fleur, can I say this on Magic, darling? She was robbed,” he told presenters Ronan Keating and Harriet Scott.
“There you go – that’s just me,” he continued.
“I mean, I absolutely love Fleur. For me, in the final, anyone could have won. I think Hamza did an absolutely spectacular job and he had all the audience behind him, which is really important as well.
“But I thought Fleur really came out of her...
- 1/20/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
It says a lot that Katya Jones winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 is arguably the least interesting thing to happen to her since joining the show. Along the way, the Russian dancer has faced scandals, divorce and arguments with her partners, while honing a skill for polishing untrained celebrities into dance diamonds. Where certain pros who may now sit on the judging panel would get lumped with a “joke” contestant like, off the top of my head, Ann Widdecombe, and accept that stereotype, giving them unchallenging choreography and even, say, dragging them around the floor, Jones never does. For her, there are no “joke” contestants. Not Ed Balls. Not Tony Adams.
On day one of her first season in 2017, the pro was dropped in at the deep end. Partnered with Balls, a former shadow chancellor famous for, among other things, tweeting the words “Ed Balls” with no explanation, she chose to swim.
On day one of her first season in 2017, the pro was dropped in at the deep end. Partnered with Balls, a former shadow chancellor famous for, among other things, tweeting the words “Ed Balls” with no explanation, she chose to swim.
- 11/12/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Louis Theroux wasn’t always this cuddly. Time was that public figures would agree to be followed around by his camera crew and come out of it looking like a bit of a tit. Think of his early-Noughties When Louis Met..., full of compellingly eccentric encounters with Ann Widdecombe, Neil and Christine Hamilton and Chris Eubank. But cultural mores have changed: we don’t like being mean, and Theroux is now a meme. And if his money don’t jiggle jiggle, neither does the opener to his new BBC Two series Louis Theroux Interviews..., which is a surprisingly flat and unengaging portrait of Stormzy, one of the UK’s most celebrated performers. Let’s hope later episodes, with the likes of Dame Judi Dench and Rita Ora, have more to offer.
“I’ve wanted to meet you for so long!” says Stormzy – real name Michael Omari – when Theroux turns up backstage at his tour.
“I’ve wanted to meet you for so long!” says Stormzy – real name Michael Omari – when Theroux turns up backstage at his tour.
- 10/25/2022
- by Jessie Thompson
- The Independent - TV
For years, Strictly Come Dancing has been providing TV audiences with Saturday night entertainment and some truly unforgettable performances.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
- 9/6/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
For years, Strictly Come Dancing has been providing TV audiences with Saturday night entertainment and some truly unforgettable performances.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
- 8/30/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Strictly Come Dancing will celebrate 100 years of the BBC with a special themed week.
The BBC show returns for its 20th series this September, with 15 celebrity contestants – including TV presenter Helen Skelton, EastEnders actor James Bye, singer Fleur East and former England footballer Tony Adams – taking to the dance floor.
You can see the full line-up here.
The series launches on September 17 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with the BBC 100 themed week announced alongside returning favourites like Movie Week, Halloween Week and the much-loved Musicals Week.
The BBC celebrates its centenary this year, and the themed episode will see Strictly couples “either dancing to a theme tune from an iconic BBC programme or in tribute to one of the BBC’s most-loved services”.
The flagship entertainment series will also return to Blackpool after a two-year absence.
The ballroom, which dates back to 1894, is ready to welcome more Strictly dancing...
The BBC show returns for its 20th series this September, with 15 celebrity contestants – including TV presenter Helen Skelton, EastEnders actor James Bye, singer Fleur East and former England footballer Tony Adams – taking to the dance floor.
You can see the full line-up here.
The series launches on September 17 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with the BBC 100 themed week announced alongside returning favourites like Movie Week, Halloween Week and the much-loved Musicals Week.
The BBC celebrates its centenary this year, and the themed episode will see Strictly couples “either dancing to a theme tune from an iconic BBC programme or in tribute to one of the BBC’s most-loved services”.
The flagship entertainment series will also return to Blackpool after a two-year absence.
The ballroom, which dates back to 1894, is ready to welcome more Strictly dancing...
- 8/22/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Amongst all our Love Island chatter and theories about who will win based on pictures of confirmed contestants alone, we'd almost forgotten about another favorite reality show — Celebrity Big Brother. The last season, which featured the likes of Courtney Act, Andrew Brady, and Ann Widdecombe, was absolutely lit. And we have very high hopes for Season 22 (!!!) of the show. Who will be on it? When will it be on? And what is this year's theme? Keep scrolling to get your questions answered! When is Celebrity Big Brother summer series back on TV? We don't have a start date as of yet, but keep your eyes out for more info! Who's in the Celebrity Big Brother summer 2018 line-up? Here are all the celebs so far rumored to be heading into the house. Stormy Daniels Stormy Daniels, of that alleged sexual relationship with a certain president of the United States fame, is...
- 5/31/2018
- by In Touch Weekly
- In Touch Weekly
Ann Widdecombe is someone who shows up in the media from time to time. Currently, she is a stage actress. However, Widdecombe should be better-known to most people because of her career as a British politician. Here are five things that you may or may not have known about Ann Widdecombe: Former Politician Most people who recognize the name of Widdecombe will recognize it because she used to be a politician. To be exact, she served as the MP for Maidstone from 1987 to 1997. After which, she served as the MP for Maidstone and The Weald from 1997 to
Five Things You Didn’t Know about Ann Widdecombe...
Five Things You Didn’t Know about Ann Widdecombe...
- 2/4/2018
- by Nat Berman
- TVovermind.com
Den Of Geek Apr 1, 2017
Peter Capaldi will be replaced in Doctor Who by former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, it's not been revealed...
Yeah, we know. We find stuff like this really annoying as well. If it's all the same, we're using our April Fool story this year to simply ask you to join us in giving The Big Issue a helping hand. We're off to see Ana in Halesowen to buy our copy today, but can we channel our collective irritation at crappy headlines like the one you see above into trying to do something good? Can we ask that, if you're as irritated as us, you do perhaps find a spare quid to give to The Big Issue, or go and buy a copy of the magazine?
That'd be much appreciated. You can find the Big Issue website right here: The Big Issue...
Peter Capaldi will be replaced in Doctor Who by former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, it's not been revealed...
Yeah, we know. We find stuff like this really annoying as well. If it's all the same, we're using our April Fool story this year to simply ask you to join us in giving The Big Issue a helping hand. We're off to see Ana in Halesowen to buy our copy today, but can we channel our collective irritation at crappy headlines like the one you see above into trying to do something good? Can we ask that, if you're as irritated as us, you do perhaps find a spare quid to give to The Big Issue, or go and buy a copy of the magazine?
That'd be much appreciated. You can find the Big Issue website right here: The Big Issue...
- 3/31/2017
- Den of Geek
Louisa Mellor Mar 3, 2017
To mark the publication of her new book, #Help: My Cat’s A Vlogging Superstar!, we chatted to the brilliant Rae Earl…
In the course of my conversation with Rae Earl about her new children’s book, the following topics came under discussion: Kirsty MacColl, the Playmobil Funko Willy Wonka figure, running marathons, Krysten Ritter’s fringe on Gilmore Girls, David Tennant on stage (“the only time Hamlet’s ever made any sense to me!), the layout of Stamford Morrisons' car park, the sound design on Jackie, McDonalds coke, the sanctuary of public toilets, Piers Morgan, Rory Gilmore’s paramours (“I’m a Jess fanatic and I won’t have any nonsense about Dean or Logan”), Anne Widdecombe, level crossings, Nazis and vomit.
See related Broadchurch series 3 episode 1 review Broadchurch series 3: air date confirmed Doctor Who: Steven Moffat quits, Chris Chibnall new showrunner Chris Chibnall interview: Broadchurch,...
To mark the publication of her new book, #Help: My Cat’s A Vlogging Superstar!, we chatted to the brilliant Rae Earl…
In the course of my conversation with Rae Earl about her new children’s book, the following topics came under discussion: Kirsty MacColl, the Playmobil Funko Willy Wonka figure, running marathons, Krysten Ritter’s fringe on Gilmore Girls, David Tennant on stage (“the only time Hamlet’s ever made any sense to me!), the layout of Stamford Morrisons' car park, the sound design on Jackie, McDonalds coke, the sanctuary of public toilets, Piers Morgan, Rory Gilmore’s paramours (“I’m a Jess fanatic and I won’t have any nonsense about Dean or Logan”), Anne Widdecombe, level crossings, Nazis and vomit.
See related Broadchurch series 3 episode 1 review Broadchurch series 3: air date confirmed Doctor Who: Steven Moffat quits, Chris Chibnall new showrunner Chris Chibnall interview: Broadchurch,...
- 3/2/2017
- Den of Geek
Louisa Mellor Oct 19, 2016
Ahead of Black Mirror series 3 arriving on Netflix, here's our spoiler-free chat with writer Charlie Brooker and producer Annabel Jones…
Six years ago this month, Charlie Brooker took leave of his weekly TV column at The Guardian with a blistering final entry that was half mea culpa, half montage of his best bits. In it, he explained that after a decade, the fun had seeped out of writing cruel but honkingly funny caricatures of small screen personalities. It no longer felt okay to earn a living by describing David Dickinson as an “ageing Thundercat” or Anne Widdecombe as having “a face like a haunted cave in Poland”.
See related Ron Howard interview: Inferno, conspiracy theories Inferno review The Da Vinci Code Blu-ray review
Brooker’s growing TV writing and presenting career had turned him from poacher to gamekeeper. You couldn’t sustain that act while mixing in showbiz circles,...
Ahead of Black Mirror series 3 arriving on Netflix, here's our spoiler-free chat with writer Charlie Brooker and producer Annabel Jones…
Six years ago this month, Charlie Brooker took leave of his weekly TV column at The Guardian with a blistering final entry that was half mea culpa, half montage of his best bits. In it, he explained that after a decade, the fun had seeped out of writing cruel but honkingly funny caricatures of small screen personalities. It no longer felt okay to earn a living by describing David Dickinson as an “ageing Thundercat” or Anne Widdecombe as having “a face like a haunted cave in Poland”.
See related Ron Howard interview: Inferno, conspiracy theories Inferno review The Da Vinci Code Blu-ray review
Brooker’s growing TV writing and presenting career had turned him from poacher to gamekeeper. You couldn’t sustain that act while mixing in showbiz circles,...
- 10/18/2016
- Den of Geek
It's Halloween on Strictly Come Dancing, which, of course means an array of exuberant costumes and terrifying dancing (sorry, Jeremy).
As always, Digital Spy had its eyes glued to the second screen, and here's the the most entertaining reactions to tonight's show:
Obviously Twitter was stacked with jokes on tonight's spooky theme:
So funny watching @CraigRevHorwood be serious when he looks like this @bbcstrictly #Strictly #strictlycomedancing pic.twitter.com/ZBSQL2e4n5
— Jonathan Simms (@JonathanSSimms) October 31, 2015
The scariest thing so far this #Strictly Halloween episode is Tess's presenting skills
— Chris (@chrisw0440) October 31, 2015
Remember, the judges will penalise you for illegal lifts in #Strictly #Halloween Dancing pic.twitter.com/EX749qQEq0
— Matthew Ward (@HistoryNeedsYou) October 31, 2015
When Botox Fails! #strictlycomedancing pic.twitter.com/H9lmcHwQil
— Inebriated Anorak (@IontheAnorak) October 31, 2015
People were confused by Claudia Winkelman dressing as a cat:
In Claudia's world I'm guessing Halloween just means a smidge more eyeliner. #scd...
As always, Digital Spy had its eyes glued to the second screen, and here's the the most entertaining reactions to tonight's show:
Obviously Twitter was stacked with jokes on tonight's spooky theme:
So funny watching @CraigRevHorwood be serious when he looks like this @bbcstrictly #Strictly #strictlycomedancing pic.twitter.com/ZBSQL2e4n5
— Jonathan Simms (@JonathanSSimms) October 31, 2015
The scariest thing so far this #Strictly Halloween episode is Tess's presenting skills
— Chris (@chrisw0440) October 31, 2015
Remember, the judges will penalise you for illegal lifts in #Strictly #Halloween Dancing pic.twitter.com/EX749qQEq0
— Matthew Ward (@HistoryNeedsYou) October 31, 2015
When Botox Fails! #strictlycomedancing pic.twitter.com/H9lmcHwQil
— Inebriated Anorak (@IontheAnorak) October 31, 2015
People were confused by Claudia Winkelman dressing as a cat:
In Claudia's world I'm guessing Halloween just means a smidge more eyeliner. #scd...
- 10/31/2015
- Digital Spy
Brian McFadden ''flirted'' with Ann Widdecombe while filming 'Who's Doing The Dishes?'. The 35-year-old star had a particularly ''funny'' day shooting the cooking game show - where contestants try to guess whose house they are dining in - with the former politician, despite her continually rebuffing his advances. He said: ''My favourite place was Ann Widdecombe's home because it was such a funny day. She spent most of the day correcting my English and I spent most of the time flirting with her. ''I was asking her if she'd read 'Fifty Shades of Grey', which she hasn't, and she kept telling me to...
- 9/3/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Strictly Come Dancing is still months away, but the rumours about which celebrities could be taking part this year are really starting to heat up now - and they've been going since January. So it felt like a good time to start to put together all the speculation we've heard to see if we can figure out who'll be hitting the ballroom in the new series.
Strictly Come Dancing: This is how they keep the celebrities taking part a secret
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 winner: We rank the celebrities' changes of topping BBC One's dance-off
With all the contestants now confirmed, check out the lineup below - and lament what could have been with the rumours that didn't become a reality. Oh well, there's always the Christmas special...
Confirmed
Rumoured
Confirmed contestants
Jeremy Vine
King of the swingometer Jeremy became the first celebrity confirmed for Strictly on August 10.
The...
Strictly Come Dancing: This is how they keep the celebrities taking part a secret
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 winner: We rank the celebrities' changes of topping BBC One's dance-off
With all the contestants now confirmed, check out the lineup below - and lament what could have been with the rumours that didn't become a reality. Oh well, there's always the Christmas special...
Confirmed
Rumoured
Confirmed contestants
Jeremy Vine
King of the swingometer Jeremy became the first celebrity confirmed for Strictly on August 10.
The...
- 8/28/2015
- Digital Spy
"I like it!" Remember the short-lived 1980s helicopter-based game show Interceptor? Er, Jamie does...
When I used to look back on my childhood - in the days before the internet’s all-seeing taint - there were three things that I always assumed were as much a constant of my young life as excessive sugar intake and making up innumerable excuses for having torn my trousers.
The first was Bertha (lovely Bertha), the stop motion-animated kids TV show helmed by Ivor Wood about a sentient factory machine - the titular Bertha - whose exploits helped trick a generation of British children into thinking that factory life was a non-stop cavalcade of japery, typified by super-advanced AI, funny wee robots and, most unrealistically of all, smiling faces. Ivor Wood must’ve been laughing all the way to the Illuminati seminar: “Enjoy your life of low-wage labour in the iron clutch of Thatcher's fist,...
When I used to look back on my childhood - in the days before the internet’s all-seeing taint - there were three things that I always assumed were as much a constant of my young life as excessive sugar intake and making up innumerable excuses for having torn my trousers.
The first was Bertha (lovely Bertha), the stop motion-animated kids TV show helmed by Ivor Wood about a sentient factory machine - the titular Bertha - whose exploits helped trick a generation of British children into thinking that factory life was a non-stop cavalcade of japery, typified by super-advanced AI, funny wee robots and, most unrealistically of all, smiling faces. Ivor Wood must’ve been laughing all the way to the Illuminati seminar: “Enjoy your life of low-wage labour in the iron clutch of Thatcher's fist,...
- 8/14/2015
- by simonbrew
- Den of Geek
Ed Balls won't be swapping the lobby floor for the dance floor, as Yvette Cooper has confirmed her husband won't be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing.
The former Labour shadow chancellor had been linked with the BBC One show in recent weeks, after losing his House of Commons seat at the May 2015 general election.
Labour Party leadership candidate Cooper told journalists at a press gallery lunch that Balls will not be showing off his fancy footwork on primetime television this autumn, joking that it would "conflict with filming in the jungle".
However, before you assume that Ed will be getting acquainted with kangaroo balls on I'm a Celebrity instead, that's probably not likely either.
The former MP for Morley and Outwood confirmed yesterday that he's accepted a senior fellowship at the Harvard Kennedy School's Mossavar-Rahmani Centre for Business and Government.
'Ed Balls will not be doing Strictly Come Dancing...
The former Labour shadow chancellor had been linked with the BBC One show in recent weeks, after losing his House of Commons seat at the May 2015 general election.
Labour Party leadership candidate Cooper told journalists at a press gallery lunch that Balls will not be showing off his fancy footwork on primetime television this autumn, joking that it would "conflict with filming in the jungle".
However, before you assume that Ed will be getting acquainted with kangaroo balls on I'm a Celebrity instead, that's probably not likely either.
The former MP for Morley and Outwood confirmed yesterday that he's accepted a senior fellowship at the Harvard Kennedy School's Mossavar-Rahmani Centre for Business and Government.
'Ed Balls will not be doing Strictly Come Dancing...
- 6/18/2015
- Digital Spy
Empire: E4, 9pm
Us TV's hottest new drama is finally hitting UK shores, airing the first of 12 episodes tonight on E4.
Empire is all about a music mogul (Terrence Howard) who must pick one of his three sons as his successor - but the real stars are Taraji P Henson as scene-stealing Cookie and the epic tunes from Timbaland.
24 Hours in the Past: BBC One, 9pm
Watching celebrities being put through the wringer is a format which never gets old - and it's the big reason to tune in for BBC One's new four-part reality series, 24 Hours in the Past.
A motley crew - including Zoe Lucker, Ann Widdecombe and Tyger Drew-Honey - have volunteered to experience four days living the life of the working poor in Victorian Britain. How will they cope?
Critical: Sky1, 9pm
Sky1's high-tension medical series, fronted by the captivating Lennie Jones, continues with its 10th episode tonight.
Us TV's hottest new drama is finally hitting UK shores, airing the first of 12 episodes tonight on E4.
Empire is all about a music mogul (Terrence Howard) who must pick one of his three sons as his successor - but the real stars are Taraji P Henson as scene-stealing Cookie and the epic tunes from Timbaland.
24 Hours in the Past: BBC One, 9pm
Watching celebrities being put through the wringer is a format which never gets old - and it's the big reason to tune in for BBC One's new four-part reality series, 24 Hours in the Past.
A motley crew - including Zoe Lucker, Ann Widdecombe and Tyger Drew-Honey - have volunteered to experience four days living the life of the working poor in Victorian Britain. How will they cope?
Critical: Sky1, 9pm
Sky1's high-tension medical series, fronted by the captivating Lennie Jones, continues with its 10th episode tonight.
- 4/28/2015
- Digital Spy
Ann Widdecombe and Zoe Lucker have been confirmed for BBC One's 24 Hours in the Past.
The living history series follows a group of six celebrities, as they attempt to authentically live the working lives of everyday people in 19th century Britain.
Alistair McGowan, Colin Jackson, Miquita Oliver and Tyger Drew-Honey are also joining the programme.
The stars must immerse themselves in the trials of a Victorian worker, having no contact with the modern world for four full days and nights.
They will be expected to carry out tasks such as stone breaking, oakum picking and sorting through rubbish looking for items to sell.
Presenter and broadcaster Fi Glover will be present at each workplace to provide viewers with an insight into everything that unfolds.
BBC One controller Charlotte Moore said: "24 Hours in the Past will bring living history to BBC One in a hardcore way.
"Viewers will get up...
The living history series follows a group of six celebrities, as they attempt to authentically live the working lives of everyday people in 19th century Britain.
Alistair McGowan, Colin Jackson, Miquita Oliver and Tyger Drew-Honey are also joining the programme.
The stars must immerse themselves in the trials of a Victorian worker, having no contact with the modern world for four full days and nights.
They will be expected to carry out tasks such as stone breaking, oakum picking and sorting through rubbish looking for items to sell.
Presenter and broadcaster Fi Glover will be present at each workplace to provide viewers with an insight into everything that unfolds.
BBC One controller Charlotte Moore said: "24 Hours in the Past will bring living history to BBC One in a hardcore way.
"Viewers will get up...
- 2/23/2015
- Digital Spy
2014 is almost over - we've had Christmas and everything - but what kind of year has it been? Well, if you're talking about reality TV, it's been pretty bloody spectacular. From scandals involving paper skeletons and baked Alaskas to shock winners and surprise losers, 2014 had a bit of everything. It's time for a little trip down memory lane, so strap in and join us as we revisit the best reality TV moments from the past 12 months...
January
Jim Davidson wins Celebrity Big Brother - and Lee Ryan loses it
This year's Celebrity Big Brother prompted a lot of soul searching as Jim Davidson ended up taking the crown - after striking up a bromance with Dappy. But it wasn't actually this winning moment that made January's CBB so captivating - instead, it was Lee Ryan's inability to keep it in his pants (and Casey Batchelor's mum shrieking: "He's mugging you off,...
January
Jim Davidson wins Celebrity Big Brother - and Lee Ryan loses it
This year's Celebrity Big Brother prompted a lot of soul searching as Jim Davidson ended up taking the crown - after striking up a bromance with Dappy. But it wasn't actually this winning moment that made January's CBB so captivating - instead, it was Lee Ryan's inability to keep it in his pants (and Casey Batchelor's mum shrieking: "He's mugging you off,...
- 12/26/2014
- Digital Spy
Alexander Armstrong has performed a rendition of the festive favourite 'Walking In a Winter Wonderland' for Pointless Celebrities: Christmas Special.
The presenter is joined by a host of stars posing as the most memorable characters from pantomime.
Christopher Biggins will play Mrs Smee, Joe Pasquale will play Mr Smee, while Lorraine Chase stars as a Wicked Queen.
Ann Widdecombe reprises her role as Strictly's pantomime act, Mark Little plays the Giant's Henchman in Jack and The Beanstalk and Liz McClarnon plays Cinderella.
Britain's Got Talent's Ashleigh and Pudsey and Bob Carolgees also feature.
The Pointless Celebrities: Christmas Special can be viewed on BBC iPlayer.
The presenter is joined by a host of stars posing as the most memorable characters from pantomime.
Christopher Biggins will play Mrs Smee, Joe Pasquale will play Mr Smee, while Lorraine Chase stars as a Wicked Queen.
Ann Widdecombe reprises her role as Strictly's pantomime act, Mark Little plays the Giant's Henchman in Jack and The Beanstalk and Liz McClarnon plays Cinderella.
Britain's Got Talent's Ashleigh and Pudsey and Bob Carolgees also feature.
The Pointless Celebrities: Christmas Special can be viewed on BBC iPlayer.
- 12/20/2014
- Digital Spy
Get Your Act Together is starting to sound like it will be the best thing on our screens in the new year.
ITV's new series sees various celebrities trying to learn new skills before performing them with experts in their field, and we've already been told about lot of the stars who will be taking part.
But now we've found out what some of them will be doing - and the thought of 79-year-old New Tricks actor James Bolam duetting with Michael Bublé on 'Me And My Shadow' is just too much for us to deal with.
According to the Daily Star, that's what we can expect - as well as Amy Willerton dancing on roller skates, Phil Tufnell showing off his basketball skills, the cast of Emmerdale doing a "magic" quick change stage act and Jedward performing some illusions.
And Chelsee Healey has reportedly joined the lineup and will...
ITV's new series sees various celebrities trying to learn new skills before performing them with experts in their field, and we've already been told about lot of the stars who will be taking part.
But now we've found out what some of them will be doing - and the thought of 79-year-old New Tricks actor James Bolam duetting with Michael Bublé on 'Me And My Shadow' is just too much for us to deal with.
According to the Daily Star, that's what we can expect - as well as Amy Willerton dancing on roller skates, Phil Tufnell showing off his basketball skills, the cast of Emmerdale doing a "magic" quick change stage act and Jedward performing some illusions.
And Chelsee Healey has reportedly joined the lineup and will...
- 12/12/2014
- Digital Spy
Sinitta, Brian McFadden, Jedward and Ann Widdecombe are among the stars who have signed up to learn circus skills for ITV's new series Get Your Act Together.
The show, hosted by Stephen Mulhern, will see celebrities teaming up with some of the world's best variety acts in an attempt to learn different talents.
Five celebrities will appear in each show and will try to learn skills such as contortion, fire dancing, ventriloquism, acrobatics, juggling and plate spinning.
Some of the other stars who have signed up are Danielle Lloyd, James Bolam, Oliver Mellor and Sherrie Hewson, while Roxy Shahidi, Ruth Madoc, Phil Tufnell, Natalie Anderson and Matthew Wolfenden are also on the bill.
Rounding out the cast so far are Nigel Havers, Chip, Claire Richards, Gaby Roslin, Gareth Thomas and Nina Wadia.
Their mentors - who will perform with the celebrities in front of a studio audience - include famous magicians Penn and Teller,...
The show, hosted by Stephen Mulhern, will see celebrities teaming up with some of the world's best variety acts in an attempt to learn different talents.
Five celebrities will appear in each show and will try to learn skills such as contortion, fire dancing, ventriloquism, acrobatics, juggling and plate spinning.
Some of the other stars who have signed up are Danielle Lloyd, James Bolam, Oliver Mellor and Sherrie Hewson, while Roxy Shahidi, Ruth Madoc, Phil Tufnell, Natalie Anderson and Matthew Wolfenden are also on the bill.
Rounding out the cast so far are Nigel Havers, Chip, Claire Richards, Gaby Roslin, Gareth Thomas and Nina Wadia.
Their mentors - who will perform with the celebrities in front of a studio audience - include famous magicians Penn and Teller,...
- 11/6/2014
- Digital Spy
Paul Merton has said that former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe and ex-Labour Party leader Lord Neil Kinnock were his least favourite Have I Got News for You guest hosts.
Merton has been a contributor to the BBC panel show since 1990, along with satirist Ian Hislop.
The comedian was speaking at the Cheltenham Literature Festival on Friday (October 3), when he named Widdecombe and Lord Kinnock as the "two worst hosts" since the show adopted a guest presenter format.
"[Lord Kinnock] was very mistrustful of every word he saw, he potentially thought it was a trip up," Merton said, according to The Radio Times.
Merton also spoke about a notorious November 2007 episode, which saw guest host Widdecombe end up in an on-air spat with comedian Jimmy Carr.
"The first time she was on, it wasn't too bad... and everyone benefits from good editing," he explained. "But I don't think she realised how much help she was getting.
Merton has been a contributor to the BBC panel show since 1990, along with satirist Ian Hislop.
The comedian was speaking at the Cheltenham Literature Festival on Friday (October 3), when he named Widdecombe and Lord Kinnock as the "two worst hosts" since the show adopted a guest presenter format.
"[Lord Kinnock] was very mistrustful of every word he saw, he potentially thought it was a trip up," Merton said, according to The Radio Times.
Merton also spoke about a notorious November 2007 episode, which saw guest host Widdecombe end up in an on-air spat with comedian Jimmy Carr.
"The first time she was on, it wasn't too bad... and everyone benefits from good editing," he explained. "But I don't think she realised how much help she was getting.
- 10/5/2014
- Digital Spy
Friday night's Strictly opener got off to a dazzling start with the great (Pixie Lott, Jake Wood and Caroline Flack) and the not-so-great (Scott Mills) providing us with excitement, drama and a few laughs.
This evening, the remaining nine celebrities hit the dance floor for the first time with their pro partners. Frankie Bridge, Thom Evans, Simon Webbe and Gregg 'Buttery Biscuit Base' Wallace are among those hoping to impress us with their cha chas, jives and waltzes.
20:27So that's all folks. Time for a breather and a chance to look back at all my dreadful spelling and grammar during the evening. Apologies for that! It's been lovely working on Strictly again. Please let us know who you think was the best in the comments below.
20:26Looking back at all the dances now, Mark Wright's performance is looking more impressive than most. Especially considering his personality is...
This evening, the remaining nine celebrities hit the dance floor for the first time with their pro partners. Frankie Bridge, Thom Evans, Simon Webbe and Gregg 'Buttery Biscuit Base' Wallace are among those hoping to impress us with their cha chas, jives and waltzes.
20:27So that's all folks. Time for a breather and a chance to look back at all my dreadful spelling and grammar during the evening. Apologies for that! It's been lovely working on Strictly again. Please let us know who you think was the best in the comments below.
20:26Looking back at all the dances now, Mark Wright's performance is looking more impressive than most. Especially considering his personality is...
- 9/27/2014
- Digital Spy
Piers Morgan will reportedly sign a new deal with ITV when his current two-year contract expires at the end of June.
The TV presenter will sign a non-exclusive deal with the broadcaster, The Sun reports.
It is claimed Morgan will host another six episodes of his Life Stories interview series, in addition to a new factual series.
There have been 69 episodes of Piers Morgan's Life Stories spread over 11 series since 2009.
Interviewees have included the likes of celebrities Sharon Osbourne, Katie Price, Simon Cowell, Elton John and Dannii Minogue, as well as politicians John Prescott, Ann Widdecombe and former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Morgan has been tipped to return to ITV's Britain's Got Talent in 2015 as a replacement for David Walliams.
The controversial former Daily Mirror editor was axed from CNN earlier this year after a three-year stint as the replacement for Larry King, later quipping about being 'unemployed'.
The TV presenter will sign a non-exclusive deal with the broadcaster, The Sun reports.
It is claimed Morgan will host another six episodes of his Life Stories interview series, in addition to a new factual series.
There have been 69 episodes of Piers Morgan's Life Stories spread over 11 series since 2009.
Interviewees have included the likes of celebrities Sharon Osbourne, Katie Price, Simon Cowell, Elton John and Dannii Minogue, as well as politicians John Prescott, Ann Widdecombe and former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Morgan has been tipped to return to ITV's Britain's Got Talent in 2015 as a replacement for David Walliams.
The controversial former Daily Mirror editor was axed from CNN earlier this year after a three-year stint as the replacement for Larry King, later quipping about being 'unemployed'.
- 6/18/2014
- Digital Spy
Celebrity Fifteen to One: Channel 4, 8pm
The success of a one-off episode last year has resulted in four more celebrity instalments of the general knowledge quiz, where contestants nominate each other to answer questions, until there is only one left.
Tonight's show has Johnny Vegas, Ann Widdecombe and Heston Blumenthal competing to win a large cash prize for a charity of their choice.
The World Cup's 50 Greatest Moments: BBC Three, 8.35pm
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand and pop singer Olly Murs look back at the most memorable moments of past World Cup matches.
World Cup winners Leonardo, Thierry Henry and Bobby Charlton and England goalscorers Gary Lineker and Michael Owen all contribute as well as Jls's Jb Gill, Lethal Bizzle, Trevor Nelson, Greg James and Russell Brand.
Big Brother: Power Trip: Channel 5, 9pm
Emma Willis welcomes the second group of contestants to join last night's housemates...
The success of a one-off episode last year has resulted in four more celebrity instalments of the general knowledge quiz, where contestants nominate each other to answer questions, until there is only one left.
Tonight's show has Johnny Vegas, Ann Widdecombe and Heston Blumenthal competing to win a large cash prize for a charity of their choice.
The World Cup's 50 Greatest Moments: BBC Three, 8.35pm
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand and pop singer Olly Murs look back at the most memorable moments of past World Cup matches.
World Cup winners Leonardo, Thierry Henry and Bobby Charlton and England goalscorers Gary Lineker and Michael Owen all contribute as well as Jls's Jb Gill, Lethal Bizzle, Trevor Nelson, Greg James and Russell Brand.
Big Brother: Power Trip: Channel 5, 9pm
Emma Willis welcomes the second group of contestants to join last night's housemates...
- 6/6/2014
- Digital Spy
Jimmy Carr, Frank Skinner and Dara Ó Briain are among the contestants taking part in a new celebrity series of Fifteen to One.
Adam Hills will return to host four primetime specials, having previously fronted the show as part of Channel 4's '80s Night last year.
Fifteen to One: Why we're glad the classic quiz show is back
Jason Manford, Steve Pemberton, Stephen Mangan and Ade Edmondson will also be appearing, as will politicians Ann Widdecombe and Diane Abbott.
Hills will also be joined by his co-hosts from The Last Leg, Alex Brooker and Josh Widdicombe.
The programme will see 15 celebrities taking part in the general knowledge quiz to win thousands of pounds for their chosen charity.
Jo Brand was the winner of the previous one-off show, taking home £21,100 for Stepping Stones charity.
Originally running from 1988 to 2003, Fifteen to One returned to screens in April with Sandi Toksvig as host.
Adam Hills will return to host four primetime specials, having previously fronted the show as part of Channel 4's '80s Night last year.
Fifteen to One: Why we're glad the classic quiz show is back
Jason Manford, Steve Pemberton, Stephen Mangan and Ade Edmondson will also be appearing, as will politicians Ann Widdecombe and Diane Abbott.
Hills will also be joined by his co-hosts from The Last Leg, Alex Brooker and Josh Widdicombe.
The programme will see 15 celebrities taking part in the general knowledge quiz to win thousands of pounds for their chosen charity.
Jo Brand was the winner of the previous one-off show, taking home £21,100 for Stepping Stones charity.
Originally running from 1988 to 2003, Fifteen to One returned to screens in April with Sandi Toksvig as host.
- 5/20/2014
- Digital Spy
Formerly an 'unstoppable salsa machine', with 'fire in [his] heels' and fruitful dance partnership with his sister, Bruce Garrett's lost the Latin verve and piled on the pounds after stumbling into adulthood and a dull industrial engineering job. But when a beautiful and endearing American (Rashida Jones) with a passion for the dance floor becomes his new boss, Bruce is determined to ignite his inner salsa flame.
Can he overcome the rivalry of irritating colleague Chris O'Dowd and the obstacle of his own size to rediscover his Cuban Fury? Well, what do you think?
Predictable throughout, this Studio Canal/Film 4/BFI Film Fund production is, crucially, likeable as well. Its talented supporting cast – including Utopia's Alexandra Roach, Sightseers' Steve Oram, Deadwood great Ian McShane and the magnificent Olivia Colman – deserved slightly more from the script than has been delivered by Miranda and Fresh Meat contributor Jon Brown.
But there are enough pithy one-liners,...
Can he overcome the rivalry of irritating colleague Chris O'Dowd and the obstacle of his own size to rediscover his Cuban Fury? Well, what do you think?
Predictable throughout, this Studio Canal/Film 4/BFI Film Fund production is, crucially, likeable as well. Its talented supporting cast – including Utopia's Alexandra Roach, Sightseers' Steve Oram, Deadwood great Ian McShane and the magnificent Olivia Colman – deserved slightly more from the script than has been delivered by Miranda and Fresh Meat contributor Jon Brown.
But there are enough pithy one-liners,...
- 2/14/2014
- Shadowlocked
Len Goodman has spoken of his excitement ahead of tomorrow (December 21) night's Strictly Come Dancing grand final.
Abbey Clancy, Natalie Gumede, Susanna Reid and Sophie Ellis-Bextor will battle it out to win the Glitterball Trophy this weekend, in the first all-female final in the BBC One show's history.
Speaking on tonight's (December 20) episode of The Graham Norton Show, Goodman says: "It's never happened before. It's one of those things.
"You normally have some men, because I used to think it was mainly women that voted, but perhaps the men weren't bulked up enough this time.
"I think it's exciting because it more of a level playing field."
The Strictly judge refused to disclose his choice of competition winner, but adds: "Through the papers I've heard Susanna Reid is the favourite."
Goodman goes on to point out that it is not always the victors who are the most memorable contestants.
He...
Abbey Clancy, Natalie Gumede, Susanna Reid and Sophie Ellis-Bextor will battle it out to win the Glitterball Trophy this weekend, in the first all-female final in the BBC One show's history.
Speaking on tonight's (December 20) episode of The Graham Norton Show, Goodman says: "It's never happened before. It's one of those things.
"You normally have some men, because I used to think it was mainly women that voted, but perhaps the men weren't bulked up enough this time.
"I think it's exciting because it more of a level playing field."
The Strictly judge refused to disclose his choice of competition winner, but adds: "Through the papers I've heard Susanna Reid is the favourite."
Goodman goes on to point out that it is not always the victors who are the most memorable contestants.
He...
- 12/20/2013
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing's Craig Revel Horwood has dismissed a viewer campaign to get Hairy Biker Dave Myers off the show.
The judge revealed his thoughts to Digital Spy and others at the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home's Collars & Coats Gala Ball last night (November 7)
"The show is about people learning to dance and I think that's ridiculous," Revel Horwood said of the viewer campaign.
"Just because he's not as quick as everybody else, he shouldn't be put down.
"He's fun for the audience to watch at home," he continued.
"He's sort of like Ann Widdecombe [in that] he'll probably go halfway through and then people will vote him out, but we'll see.
"He's very entertaining and if he gets his game up a little bit more he could do very, very well."
He added: "He's got the personality to hold it together and that's generally 50% of the game."
Revel Horwood also blamed...
The judge revealed his thoughts to Digital Spy and others at the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home's Collars & Coats Gala Ball last night (November 7)
"The show is about people learning to dance and I think that's ridiculous," Revel Horwood said of the viewer campaign.
"Just because he's not as quick as everybody else, he shouldn't be put down.
"He's fun for the audience to watch at home," he continued.
"He's sort of like Ann Widdecombe [in that] he'll probably go halfway through and then people will vote him out, but we'll see.
"He's very entertaining and if he gets his game up a little bit more he could do very, very well."
He added: "He's got the personality to hold it together and that's generally 50% of the game."
Revel Horwood also blamed...
- 11/8/2013
- Digital Spy
"Like a Cumberland sausage chasing the mustard." "I wish there was some jive to judge." "It was a little bit like the weather - cloudy, grey and dismal."
Dave Myers's Halloween jive didn't exactly float the Strictly Come Dancing judges' boats last weekend. Rock bottom of the leaderboard again and with many of the weakest dancers already culled from the competition, it came as a surprise to see Dave survive the dreaded Dance Off yet again.
Countdown's Rachel Riley and one of the bookies' favourites to win the series, Abbey Clancy, were the duo asked to perform again on the Results Show. For some viewers, the fact that Clancy could have been voted out of the show before the Hairy Biker is unfathomable.
Six weeks into the competition, Myers is still always at least two steps behind his pro dance partner Karen Hauer. From his funky chicken cha cha...
Dave Myers's Halloween jive didn't exactly float the Strictly Come Dancing judges' boats last weekend. Rock bottom of the leaderboard again and with many of the weakest dancers already culled from the competition, it came as a surprise to see Dave survive the dreaded Dance Off yet again.
Countdown's Rachel Riley and one of the bookies' favourites to win the series, Abbey Clancy, were the duo asked to perform again on the Results Show. For some viewers, the fact that Clancy could have been voted out of the show before the Hairy Biker is unfathomable.
Six weeks into the competition, Myers is still always at least two steps behind his pro dance partner Karen Hauer. From his funky chicken cha cha...
- 11/6/2013
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly has made a jibe at Ann Widdecombe by describing current contestant Dave Myers as a "loveable version" of the politician with "a lot more personality".
Speaking to Digital Spy at the launch of Disney on Ice last night (October 14), Daly dismissed comparisons between Widdecombe, who competed on Strictly in 2010, and this year's apparent 'joke act'.
Asked if Hairy Bikers star Myers was the new Widdecombe, the 44-year-old replied: "Yeah, a loveable version. He's already a better dancer and he has a lot more personality."
Admitting that the ex-Tory MP was "great to watch" and "brilliant entertainment", Daly continued: "I saw her in panto last year with Craig Revel Horwood.
"All I could think of was, 'How ironic'. We brought her into this world of light entertainment, now she can't get enough. That's the thing, Strictly changes people."
Daly went on to describe this year's...
Speaking to Digital Spy at the launch of Disney on Ice last night (October 14), Daly dismissed comparisons between Widdecombe, who competed on Strictly in 2010, and this year's apparent 'joke act'.
Asked if Hairy Bikers star Myers was the new Widdecombe, the 44-year-old replied: "Yeah, a loveable version. He's already a better dancer and he has a lot more personality."
Admitting that the ex-Tory MP was "great to watch" and "brilliant entertainment", Daly continued: "I saw her in panto last year with Craig Revel Horwood.
"All I could think of was, 'How ironic'. We brought her into this world of light entertainment, now she can't get enough. That's the thing, Strictly changes people."
Daly went on to describe this year's...
- 10/15/2013
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly has made a jibe at Ann Widdecombe by describing current contestant Dave Myers as a "loveable version" of the politician with "a lot more personality".
Speaking to Digital Spy at the launch of Disney on Ice last night (October 14), Daly dismissed comparisons between Widdecombe, who competed on Strictly in 2010, and this year's apparent 'joke act'.
Asked if Hairy Bikers star Myers was the new Widdecombe, the 44-year-old replied: "Yeah, a loveable version. He's already a better dancer and he has a lot more personality."
Admitting that the ex-Tory MP was "great to watch" and "brilliant entertainment", Daly continued: "I saw her in panto last year with Craig Revel Horwood.
"All I could think of was, 'How ironic'. We brought her into this world of light entertainment, now she can't get enough. That's the thing, Strictly changes people."
Daly went on to describe this year's...
Speaking to Digital Spy at the launch of Disney on Ice last night (October 14), Daly dismissed comparisons between Widdecombe, who competed on Strictly in 2010, and this year's apparent 'joke act'.
Asked if Hairy Bikers star Myers was the new Widdecombe, the 44-year-old replied: "Yeah, a loveable version. He's already a better dancer and he has a lot more personality."
Admitting that the ex-Tory MP was "great to watch" and "brilliant entertainment", Daly continued: "I saw her in panto last year with Craig Revel Horwood.
"All I could think of was, 'How ironic'. We brought her into this world of light entertainment, now she can't get enough. That's the thing, Strictly changes people."
Daly went on to describe this year's...
- 10/15/2013
- Digital Spy
Ah, Big Brother. The true love-it-or-hate-it of television. Ever since it started in 2000, it's been one of the most divisive programmes ever to make it onto the box, so there was no real surprise at the outcry when the National Trust announced it would be opening it to the public for two days only. 'How could a British institution give such credence to Big Brother?' the cry went, with even Ann Widdecombe huffing about the horror of the news.
But is that really fair? Digital Spy obviously jumped at the chance to visit the house at last night's gala launch - attended by former housemates alternately gasping at how much of a "headspin" it was to be back (Charlie Travers) or grinning and bouncing with excitement about being able to press buttons they were banned from touching before (Callum Knell).
Everyone always says that the Big Brother house is smaller than you expect,...
But is that really fair? Digital Spy obviously jumped at the chance to visit the house at last night's gala launch - attended by former housemates alternately gasping at how much of a "headspin" it was to be back (Charlie Travers) or grinning and bouncing with excitement about being able to press buttons they were banned from touching before (Callum Knell).
Everyone always says that the Big Brother house is smaller than you expect,...
- 9/27/2013
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing is set to start next Friday (September 27), with stars such as Abbey Clancy, Julien Macdonald and Vanessa Feltz competing for the ballroom dancing crown.
In anticipation to the start of the series, which runs up to Christmas, the first previews of the contestants rehearsing ahead of the live shows have already been released online.
But along with the conscientious training, tough competition - and, at times, chemistry - comes salacious speculation about romance between the celebrities and their dance partners.
Cast your beady eye back over the real (and reported) romances - from Joe and Kristina to Natasha and Brendan - throughout the series below.
Kara Tointon and Artem Chigvintsev
Kara and former dance partner Artem became an item when they teamed up together to win the series in 2010. The pair have since moved in together, although the former EastEnders star has previously said that the pair...
In anticipation to the start of the series, which runs up to Christmas, the first previews of the contestants rehearsing ahead of the live shows have already been released online.
But along with the conscientious training, tough competition - and, at times, chemistry - comes salacious speculation about romance between the celebrities and their dance partners.
Cast your beady eye back over the real (and reported) romances - from Joe and Kristina to Natasha and Brendan - throughout the series below.
Kara Tointon and Artem Chigvintsev
Kara and former dance partner Artem became an item when they teamed up together to win the series in 2010. The pair have since moved in together, although the former EastEnders star has previously said that the pair...
- 9/19/2013
- Digital Spy
Life and work of Iain Banks to be honoured at 30th festival, with Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood and Neil Gaiman also featuring in two-week event partnered by the Guardian
The life and works of the late Iain Banks will be celebrated by close friends including Ian Rankin and Val McDermid in a special event at this August's Edinburgh international book festival, for which the Guardian is media partner.
"Scotland and the world were rocked by his death last weekend," said Nick Barley, the festival director. "We'd been planning a celebration anyway as we're marking our 30th birthday, and his first novel, The Wasp Factory, was out in 1984. I spoke to him many times about what he'd like to do. He wanted to be there – sadly he can't be."
Instead, the event on the festival's closing Sunday will see Scottish authors including Rankin, McDermid and Ken MacLeod looking back over Banks's 29-year career.
The life and works of the late Iain Banks will be celebrated by close friends including Ian Rankin and Val McDermid in a special event at this August's Edinburgh international book festival, for which the Guardian is media partner.
"Scotland and the world were rocked by his death last weekend," said Nick Barley, the festival director. "We'd been planning a celebration anyway as we're marking our 30th birthday, and his first novel, The Wasp Factory, was out in 1984. I spoke to him many times about what he'd like to do. He wanted to be there – sadly he can't be."
Instead, the event on the festival's closing Sunday will see Scottish authors including Rankin, McDermid and Ken MacLeod looking back over Banks's 29-year career.
- 6/20/2013
- by Alison Flood
- The Guardian - Film News
Review Louisa Mellor Jan 15, 2013
From the makers of Hunted and Spooks comes stylish conspiracy thriller Utopia…
This review contains spoilers. Our spoiler-free version is here.
What a welcome distraction from the January mire is Utopia. A nasty conspiracy thriller with a glint of humour and a stomach for violence, it’s just the tonic for swilling out the aftertaste of Christmas Specials and TV talent contests.
Episode one performs the required set-up neatly, taking all of Utopia’s pieces out of the box and placing them on the board in preparation for the five weeks to come.
If - and this isn't a given in the bizarre, paranoid world of Utopia - everyone is as they first appear, then the characters are familiar types: a pair of stylised hitmen, a crackpot conspiracy theorist web hacker, a Shane Meadows-y estate kid… It's not the characters, but the combination of stylised direction,...
From the makers of Hunted and Spooks comes stylish conspiracy thriller Utopia…
This review contains spoilers. Our spoiler-free version is here.
What a welcome distraction from the January mire is Utopia. A nasty conspiracy thriller with a glint of humour and a stomach for violence, it’s just the tonic for swilling out the aftertaste of Christmas Specials and TV talent contests.
Episode one performs the required set-up neatly, taking all of Utopia’s pieces out of the box and placing them on the board in preparation for the five weeks to come.
If - and this isn't a given in the bizarre, paranoid world of Utopia - everyone is as they first appear, then the characters are familiar types: a pair of stylised hitmen, a crackpot conspiracy theorist web hacker, a Shane Meadows-y estate kid… It's not the characters, but the combination of stylised direction,...
- 1/15/2013
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
Ann Widdecombe and Russell Grant will return to the Strictly Come Dancing dancefloor tomorrow night to help raise money for Children in Need. The Strictly favourites will be reunited with their former pro partners Anton Du Beke and Flavia Cacace for a special one-off routine. Watch a teaser of their Children in Need Strictly performance: "I'm thrilled to be back on Children in Need as I was in the first one ever! And to be dancing with Flavia once more is a Strictly dream come (more)...
- 11/15/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Yotam Ottolenghi savours the flavours of Marrakech, 1950s TV newsroom drama The Hour returns and Michael Winterbottom explores the effects of a long stretch in prison
Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday
MondayCrime Stories
2pm, ITV1
Co-created by the people who brought us The Bill, here's a peculiar and rather worthy hybrid of fact and fiction – a fake fly-on-the-wall police procedural, starring a former real-life detective chief superintendent (Jane Antrobus). It's certainly plodding and humdrum enough to be authentic – though does chuck in the odd Columbo-style red herring to keep us interested. In this series opener, Di Jane and DS Ben Shaw (Hollyoaks' Ben Hull) investigate the case of an care home resident who's had his money stolen. Ali Catterall
The Dark Charisma Of Adolf Hitler
9pm, BBC2
Debut of a three-part series seeking to explain one of history's great inexplicables: how and why did the civilised people of a great European nation,...
Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday
MondayCrime Stories
2pm, ITV1
Co-created by the people who brought us The Bill, here's a peculiar and rather worthy hybrid of fact and fiction – a fake fly-on-the-wall police procedural, starring a former real-life detective chief superintendent (Jane Antrobus). It's certainly plodding and humdrum enough to be authentic – though does chuck in the odd Columbo-style red herring to keep us interested. In this series opener, Di Jane and DS Ben Shaw (Hollyoaks' Ben Hull) investigate the case of an care home resident who's had his money stolen. Ali Catterall
The Dark Charisma Of Adolf Hitler
9pm, BBC2
Debut of a three-part series seeking to explain one of history's great inexplicables: how and why did the civilised people of a great European nation,...
- 11/13/2012
- by Ali Catterall, Andrew Mueller, Hannah Verdier, David Stubbs, Ben Arnold, Phelim O'Neill, John Robinson, Jonathan Wright, Julia Raeside, Mark Jones, Martin Skegg
- The Guardian - Film News
Bruno Tonioli says Kate Garraway, Fiona Phillips and Ann Widdecombe have been the worst ever 'Strictly Come Dancing' contestants. The former 'GMTV' hosts and the Tory MP have all taken part in the BBC One show and while they have been hit with viewers, judge Bruno wasn't impressed with their moves. When asked who the worst contestants have been, he said: ''The 'GMTV' girls - Fiona Phillips and Kate Garraway - danced as though their bodies had been filleted of all bones. And Ann Widdecombe, bless her, was just dragged round the dancefloor week after week. I don't think it's ever been...
- 11/3/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Kimberley Walsh will ''fly'' on this week's 'Strictly Come Dancing'. The Girls Aloud beauty will perform a steamy salsa with partner Pasha Kovalev and the routine will see her lifted above the dance floor on special wires. Sources told The Sun newspaper that Kimberley is ''proud'' to be only the second celebrity dancer ever to attempt the stunt, following in the footsteps of 2010 contestant Ann Widdecombe. While Kimberley is looking forward to her routine, she will be hoping none of her Girls Aloud bandmates come to watch as she recently admitted having people she knows in the audience makes her nervous. The 30-year-old...
- 10/31/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Kimberley Walsh will reportedly fly through the air on Strictly Come Dancing. The Girls Aloud star is said to be training for a routine involving wires during her salsa on Saturday's show, according to The Sun. Sources have claimed that the singer is "proud" to become the second celebrity to attempt the routine following Ann Widdecombe's infamous dance in 2010. Widdecombe will return for a Children in Need special of Strictly with Russell Grant on Friday, November 16. Walsh has also denied reports (more)...
- 10/31/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Children in Need's Appeal Night will feature a Strictly Come Dancing special with former show favourites Russell Grant and Anne Widdecombe. The two former celebrity contestants will take to the dancefloor one last time to raise money as part of the BBC One night of fundraising. Widdecombe will partner with Anton Du Beke and Grant will reunite with Flavia Cacace to provide "an unmissable performance". "I'm thrilled to be back on Children in Need as I was in the first one ever!" said Grant. "And to be dancing with Flavia once more is a Strictly dream come true. A fantastic cause doing something I love! Everyone's (more)...
- 10/30/2012
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Kimberley Walsh will ''fly'' on this week's 'Strictly Come Dancing'. The Girls Aloud beauty will perform a steamy salsa with partner Pasha Kovalev and the routine will see her lifted above the dance floor on special wires. Sources told The Sun newspaper that Kimberley is ''proud'' to be only the second celebrity dancer ever to attempt the stunt, following in the footsteps of 2010 contestant Ann Widdecombe. While Kimberley is looking forward to her routine, she will be hoping none of her Girls Aloud bandmates come to watch as she recently admitted having people she knows in the audience makes her nervous. The 30-year-old...
- 10/29/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
Jerry Hall is desperate to fly on 'Strictly Come Dancing'. The Texan model - who is partnered with Anton Du Beke on the BBC show - would love to be move controversial in her future routines and thinks flying like former contestant Ann Widdecombe would be the perfect way to gain votes. A source told The Sun newspaper ''Jerry has told producers she wants to fly as she think it's just the kind of flamboyant act that will help raise her profile. ''Like Ann, she knows she's not the greatest dancer but she's game for anything.'' Jerry has been shocking her other contestants during...
- 10/10/2012
- Virgin Media - TV
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