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Florence Pugh transforms into Lib Wright in chilling first look at Netflix’s psychological thriller The Wonder

2021-08-13T01:21:00.036+05:00

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Florence will star as Lib Wright in the Netflix film

Florence Pugh has had quite the transformation for her next role in the upcoming film The Wonder.

The 25-year-old actress will portray Lib Wright in the forthcoming adaptation of Emma Donoghue’s novel and the first look image from the movie shows her wrapped in a shawl while standing in the middle of a cemetery.

It is set to be the first film in a planned series of UK features by Netflix.

Set in the Irish midlands in 1862, The Wonder is a psychological thriller inspired by the 19th century phenomenon of the ‘fasting girls’.

Florence plays the role of an English nurse, who travels to a small Irish village to observe 11-year-old Anna O’Donnell, a young girl who has managed to remain alive and well, despite the fact that she has stopped eating.

The movie explores if the village is harbouring a saint ‘surviving on manna from heaven’ or if there are more ominous motives at work, all while tourists and pilgrims travel to witness the girl.

It has previously been announced that Florence will star opposite Toby Jones, Ciaran Hinds, Dermot Crowley, Brian F O’Byrne and David Wilmot.

The Wonder is a psychological thriller based on the novel by Emma Donoghue (Picture: Christopher Barr/Netflix)

Also joining the cast include Tom Burke, Niamh Algar, Elaine Cassidy and her daughter Kila Lord Cassidy.

The film is being directed by Chilean filmmaker Sebastian Lelio, who previously won an Oscar for his 2017 feature A Fantastic Woman.

He said: ‘Bringing the powerful novel The Wonder by Emma Donoghue to the screen not only offers me the chance to portray the collision between reason and faith, individual and community, obedience and rebellion, but also to explore my ow interpretation of what a “period” film can be.

Florence plays the role of an English nurse who travels to Ireland to observe a young girl who has stopped eating but remains alive and well (Picture: AP)

‘I couldn’t be more thrilled that the magnetic and courageous Florence Pugh will play our fierce female lead.’

Fiona Lamptey, director of UK features at Netflix, added: ‘The Wonder has everything we’re looking for at Netflix for UK and Ireland film slate – a rich, authentic story that comes from these shores along with creative excellence across source material, script, director and actors.

‘I’m incredibly excited to work with such outstanding talent on a unique female lead story.’

The Wonder will be released to Netflix in 2022.

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‘Serious and tragic’ incident in Plymouth sparks major police response

2021-08-13T01:21:00.019+05:00

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Armed police and three air ambulances are at the scene in Plymouth this evening (Picture: Plymouth Live/BPM Media)

A serious incident is unfolding in the Keyham area of Plymouth, sparking a major response from emergency services.

Several air ambulances and ‘multiple’ ambulances have been sent to the scene after the incident began after 6pm this evening.

Reports suggest that several people had been shot, with one witness posting on Facebook that they had seen ‘blood everywhere’ after someone had been wounded.

Local MP Johnny Mercer posted on Twitter: ‘I am aware of a serious and tragic incident unfolding in Plymouth.

‘Please obey all instructions from the Police and do not post rumour or speculation on social media. I will post news when I have it.’

He added: ‘The incident is not terror related, and neither is the suspect on the run in Plymouth. Remain calm. It is for the Police to confirm further details. Do not repost chatter or gossip; work with them. We have the best cops in the land.’

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We were called at 18:12 to an ongoing incident in Plymouth.

We responded to the incident with a significant number of resources, including Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART), multiple ambulances, air ambulances, multiple doctors and senior paramedics.

1/2 pic.twitter.com/17xZs7LsTm
— South Western Ambulance Service (@swasFT) August 12, 2021

Update: awaiting confirmation of number of victims but this looks like a very grim day for our city and our community.

Please can I ask that you think of the families and our community and not share any images or videos of any of the victims. #keyham
— Luke Pollard MP (@LukePollard) August 12, 2021

Luke Pollard MP, who represents Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, posted: ‘Really worrying news coming out of Keyham in #plymouth. Please can everyone stay safe, stay indoors and follow police advice.’

He added: ‘Update: awaiting confirmation of number of victims but this looks like a very grim day for our city and our community.

‘Please can I ask that you think of the families and our community and not share
any images or videos of any of the victims. #keyham.’

A spokesperson for South West Ambulance said: ‘We were called at 18:12 to an ongoing incident in Plymouth.

‘We responded to the incident with a significant number of resources, including Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART), multiple ambulances, air ambulances, multiple doctors and senior paramedics.

‘We will provide an update in due course.’

Devon and Cornwall Police have not yet released a statement about the incident.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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Britney Spears’ conservatorship judge ‘receiving death threats’ after denying request to expedite hearing

2021-08-13T01:21:00.017+05:00

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Police are reportedly monitoring death threats being made to Brenda Penny (Picture: Todd Williamson/Getty Images for dcp)

Britney Spears’ conservatorship judge Brenda Penny has reportedly been receiving death threats over her handling of the singer’s case.

Following the judge’s recent decision to deny the request from Spears’ new lawyer, Mathew S Rosengart, to expedite a hearing regarding the role of the 39-year-old’s father Jamie, TMZ reports police have been monitoring concerning threats.

The publication stated that Penny has since received enough death threats online to concern the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

The threats are not regarded as criminal, however, police will be keeping an eye on the situation going forward.

Penny’s son, Insecure showrunner Prentice Penny, has also recently spoken out about trolling comments he has received due to his mother’s decision during the case.

Penny’s recent refusal to bring the hearing forward means the potential suspension of Jamie’s role as the conservator of Britney’s estate will be heard on September 29.

Judge Brenda Penny recently denied Britney’s request to ‘immediately’ remove her father Jamie as the conservator of her estate (Picture: Twitter)

Rosengart had requested an emergency hearing last week to review the status of Jamie, who still oversees his daughter’s finances, despite her recent calls for him to be ousted from the position.

The lawyer’s request to remove Spears’s father as conservator of her estate has been supported by her doctors, mother, and her current personal conservator, Jodi Montgomery.

https://t.co/dsnoQm3f9S pic.twitter.com/ITRCPkUKpl
— Prentice Penny (@The_A_Prentice) July 14, 2021

In a statement responding to Judge Penny’s decision, Rosengart said last week: ‘Every day that passes is another day of avoidable harm and prejudice to Ms Spears and the Estate.’

After it was confirmed the hearing would not be brought forward, Spears took to Instagram to tell fans they ‘only know half’ of what is going on.

Alongside a video of a fan with a #FreeBritney flag, she wrote: ‘Geez look at that flag !!!! I was like “My flag up over the American Flag !?!?” … Yes … I’m tooting my own horn .. is that bad ?????

https://www.instagram.com/p/CSXQJ3qJDZM/

‘I know in my previous post I said you guys know my situation but LET ME CLARIFY … you only know half of it !!!!’

The Toxic singer continued: ‘And for a lot of you who say I should be cautious with what I post … I mean if you REALLY THINK ABOUT IT … with what I’ve been through I believe I been WAAAY TOO CAUTIOUS !!!! One day I will live on the edge !!!! One day.’

Moments later, the chart-topper posted a cooking video as she revealed plans to step back from social media going forward.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CSXTkwSpS4U/

Jamie’s legal team recently hit back at Rosengart’s request to have him removed from his role, arguing there are ‘no grounds whatsoever’ to do so.

Mr Rosengart ‘does not (and cannot) specify what the wrongdoing is’ to prompt such a suspension, they argued according to a recent court filing.

Mr Spears, 69, stepped down from overseeing his daughter’s person in 2019, citing ill health.

He was replaced on what remains a temporary basis by court-appointed professional Jodi Montgomery. However, the two have recently clashed over their respective roles.

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MORE : Britney Spears’ mother begs fans to stop trolling her and Jamie-Lynn amid conservatorship battle

MORE : Britney Spears shares her excitement at finally buying herself an iPad and new shoes amid conservatorship battle

From metro.co.uk

Donald Trump ‘doesn’t want to urge vaccines because of Joe Biden and polling numbers’

2021-08-13T01:21:00.015+05:00

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President Donald Trump reportedly does not want to urge people to get Covid-19 vaccines because it could jeopardize his poll numbers (Picture: Reuters)

Former President Donald Trump may have political reasons behind why he has not urged people to get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Trump appears to not want to do any ‘favors’ for President Joe Biden or risk alienating his core supporters, many of whom polls show are against the vaccines, anonymous sources told The Daily Beast.

Of note, Trump and his family members are vaccinated, and the ex-president in a prior interview said he would ‘recommend’ that people get vaccinated.

Some of Trump’s allies feel the former president has not done enough to encourage his supporters to get vaccinated. Four anonymous sources who spoke with The Daily Beast said they talked with Trump or former First Lady Melania about pushing vaccinations, which he reportedly did not take up.

Many of the states and counties across the US with the lowest vaccination rates voted for Trump over Biden. Some believe that only Republican leadership can motivate hardline conservatives to get vaccinated.

People close to Trump say that he is worried that endorsing the vaccine could affect his poll numbers among his followers. Trump doesn’t want to push too hard on the subject, so as to not ‘piss off his base’, one source told The Daily Beast.

In late July, a poll conducted by Monmouth University found that Republicans represent the majority of people who are unswerving in their opposition to vaccines.

Trump last month stated he sympathized with anti-vaxxers because they are ‘refusing to take the Vaccine because they don’t trust (Biden’s) Administration, they don’t trust the Election results, and they certainly don’t trust the Fake News, which is refusing to tell the Truth’.

Fox News host Tucker Carlson has said that ‘maybe the vaccine doesn’t work’ and has suggested that vaccinations are responsible for dozens of people’s deaths.

However, close allies of Trump including former White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and Fox News host Sean Hannity who is close to him, have spoken out in favor of vaccination.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

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Police hunting three men after girl ‘sexually assaulted’ on train

2021-08-13T01:21:00.013+05:00

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Police want to speak to these three men about an alleged sexual assault on a train between Liverpool and Blackpool (Picture: BTP/UNPIXS (EUROPE))

Police want to speak to these three men after a teenage girl was allegedly sexually assaulted on board a train.

The images were released yesterday following the attack, said to have happened on a train between Liverpool Lime Street and Blackpool North stations on Sunday July 8, around 8pm.

The teenager was among a group of girls returning after a day of shopping in Liverpool.

A group of men began looking in their direction and winking at them while they were waiting on the platform.

While on the train towards Blackpool North, the men started threatening the girls before one was sexually assaulted, British Transport Police (BTP) said.

BTP has launched an investigation into the incident.

Officers believe the three men in the images may have information which could help.

Anybody who recognises the men or has any information, should contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 557 of 08/08/21.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

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Strictly Come Dancing 2021: EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis joins line-up as first ever deaf contestant

2021-08-13T01:21:00.011+05:00

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Rose Ayling-Ellis will be Strictly Come Dancing’s first deaf contestant (Picture: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing 2021 has just confirmed its first ever deaf contestant with EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis confirmed for the line-up.

Rose, 30, was announced as the 12th celebrity to join the star-studded bill on Thursday, following stars such as McFly singer Tom Fletcher, BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker and Gordon Ramsay’s daughter Matilda Ramsay.

She’s not the only history-making contestant as Great British Bake Off winner John Whaite will be a part of the competition’s first all-male couple.

Sharing her excitement ahead of the next series, Rose said: ‘To be the first deaf contestant on Strictly Come Dancing is sooooo exciting… and a little bit scary.

‘It is the hardest secret I have ever had to keep so it feels amazing to finally have this out in the open!’

She added: ‘I hope I will do the deaf community proud and break down more barriers. But I am also very excited to learn an incredible new skill and even better I get to learn whilst wearing beautiful dresses made especially for me!’

Making #Strictly 2021 her next big role. @BBCEastEnders actor Rose Ayling-Ellis joins our all-star cast! âœ¨

ðŸ‘‰ https://t.co/FiHunPgsU8 @RoseAylingEllis pic.twitter.com/KlC9MVMC44
— BBC Strictly âœ¨ (@bbcstrictly) August 12, 2021

Rose has played Frankie Lewis in EastEnders since 2020 and recently praised the BBC One soap for exploring her character’s deaf identity further.

The actress told Inside Soap in January: ‘For too long, TV hasn’t portrayed the deaf experience of deaf culture.

‘I think for people who don’t know anyone who is deaf, it’s important to show what life is like for a deaf person. Even things such as using my voice and having the audience hear my “deaf accent” is a big step forward.’

Rose has starred as Frankie Lewis in EastEnders since last year (Picture: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)

She added: ‘I truly hope that hearing voices such as mine on TV will become the norm. Plus, it’s exciting to have two deaf characters on a major prime-time show.’

Rose is the first ever deaf actor to play a deaf character on the soap. She has previously appeared in various stage productions, and her other TV credits include Summer of Rockets and Casualty. Rose use British Sign Language (BSL).

The actress will have a familiar face among this year’s Strictly line-up as former EastEnders star Nadia Wadia has also signed up.

Production on the upcoming series has already faced a challenge after professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova tested positive for Covid, meaning the rest of the cast and crew have to isolate for 10 days. However, Strictly bosses have promised this won’t delay the series.

Strictly Come Dancing 2021 is set to debut this autumn.

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MORE : Emma Willis ‘wants to do Strictly so bad’ – and is keen to compete against husband Matt

MORE : Strictly Come Dancing 2021: Who is former EastEnders star Nina Wadia?

From metro.co.uk

David Seaman hoping Arsenal make ‘big surprise signing’ before summer transfer window closes

2021-08-13T01:21:00.009+05:00

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Mikel Arteta has added three new names to his Arsenal squad this summer (Picture: Getty)

David Seaman has urged Arsenal to appease ‘frustrated’ supporters with a ‘big surprise signing’ ahead of what he feels is ‘judgement season’ for head coach Mikel Arteta.

The Gunners have looked to invest heavily in their squad this summer after an immensely disappointing Premier League campaign, with Arteta’s men finishing outside of the European places down in eighth last term.

Left-back Nuno Tavares, 21, and midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga, 21, were the first new players through the doors at the Emirates, arriving from Benfica and Anderlecht respectively last month.

After returning from international duty, England and Brighton defender Ben White followed the young duo to north London and there will be weighty expectations on the 23-year-old’s shoulders given his hefty £50million price tag.

White completed a £50m switch from Brighton to Arsenal last month (Picture: Getty)

And while Arsenal have already spent in excess of £70m on the young trio, Seaman is hoping another unexpected piece of business could be wrapped up before the transfer deadline.

‘If it’s not a good start, I think things will change really quickly because the fans will let them know and they’re not happy,’ the legendary ex-Arsenal and England goalkeeper said on his Seaman Says podcast.

‘You go on Twitter and look at the comments about Arsenal and all the fans are frustrated at the lack of signings. Lots of people supposedly coming but nothing ever happens.

‘It would be great for us to just get a big surprise signing that we haven’t really heard about just to settle the fans.

‘We’re supposed to be getting certain people and it just doesn’t happen. The Ben White move took forever to go through.’

Seaman is hoping for a ‘big surprise signing’ at Arsenal (Picture: Getty)

Seaman believes Arteta has been given ample time to begin delivering on the promises he made when he took over the reins as Arsenal manager back in December 2019.

‘We’ll see with Arteta because this is his judgement season,’ he added.

‘I feel he’s had his time to get his players in as much as he can, he’s had quite a bit of time coaching the players he’s got and getting them to play the way he wants and we’ll see.

‘It’s a big season for Arsenal, this one.’

Arteta’s side finished eighth in the Premier League table last season (Picture: Getty)

Addressing the media ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League opener with Brentford, Arteta insisted anything was possible before the transfer window closes.

‘Anything is possible and there are still a lot of things to be done and a lot of clubs involved,’ the Spaniard told reporters.

‘You can see that the ball starts to roll at a different speed in the last week or so. It’s been a really difficult transfer window and probably a lot of things will happen in the last week or so.

‘It’s how deals develop and sometimes something that is not possible to do on the 12th of August is possible to do on the last day. Whether you are happy bringing the player in or not I think is more important.

He added: ‘We have owners that are willing to invest in the team and they want to get the team better and with bigger aims,” he said.

‘We are trying to find a balance because at the same time we need to be really careful. We need a financial position that is sustainable and healthy for the club.

‘It’s been really busy. We are talking about the most difficult transfer market in this industry over the last years for sure, and we are trying to adapt.

‘The club, the owners and myself, we all have the same interest, which is to make this team much stronger. We know we still have things to do to get what we want.’

MORE : Nigel Winterburn names the one position Arsenal must strengthen in this summer

MORE : ‘Why are you buying Chelsea rejects?’ – Roy Keane and Jamie Carragher slam Arsenal chief Edu’s ‘stupid’ recruitment

From metro.co.uk

UK to send around 600 troops to Afghanistan to evacuate British nationals

2021-08-13T01:21:00.007+05:00

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It comes as the Taliban have captured major cities in a quick advance (Picture: Getty)

The UK is to deploy around 600 troops to evacuate British nationals in Afghanistan as the security situation there rapidly deteriorates.

It comes after the Foreign Office changed travel advice to recommend that Brits leave Afghanistan as soon as possible, while commercial travel options remain available.

The Ministry of Defence said that the additional military personnel will arrive in Kabul over the coming days.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: ‘I have authorised the deployment of additional military personnel to support the diplomatic presence in Kabul, assist British nationals to leave the country and support the relocation of former Afghan staff who risked their lives serving alongside us.

‘The security of British nationals, British military personnel and former Afghan staff is our first priority. We must do everything we can to ensure their safety.’

It comes after a US official said the United States would also send additional troops into the country to help evacuate some personnel from the embassy in Kabul.

Displaced Afghans from the northern provinces are evacuated from a makeshift IDP camp in Share-e-Naw park to various mosques and schools in Kabul today (Picture: Getty)

The troops will provide ground and air support for the processing and security of Americans being sent out of the country, said the official.

Afghan government forces are collapsing even faster than US military leaders thought possible just a few months ago when President Joe Biden ordered a full withdrawal.

But there is little appetite at the White House, the Pentagon or among the American public for trying to stop the rout.

Mr Biden has made it clear he has no intention of reversing the decision he made last spring, even as the outcome seems to point towards a Taliban takeover.

With most US troops now gone and the Taliban accelerating their battlefield gains, American military leaders are not pressing him to change his mind.

They know that the only significant option would be for the president to restart the war he already decided to end.

The Taliban ruled the country from 1996 until US forces invaded after the 9/11 attacks.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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Love Island 2021 ‘meet the parents’ episode: Is it happening this year?

2021-08-13T01:21:00.003+05:00

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What do Faye and Teddy’s parents have to say? (Picture: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The 2021 series of Love Island has been supplying plenty of drama, as it draws closer to its finale on August 23.

If two new bombshells weren’t enough, a recent confrontation between contestants Faye Winter and Teddy Soares resulted in the show receiving a record-breaking number of OfCom complaints.

The last stretch of the competition should provide plenty more twists and turns, with many fans beginning to wonder if the remaining contestants’ parents will be paying the villa a visit.

But with the ongoing pandemic, can the parents’ reunion episode actually take place this year?

Here is everything you need to know…

Is the ‘meet the parents’ episode happening this year?

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While there has been no official confirmation as of yet, many are holding out hope that the parents will become involved, in one way or another.

The episode usually takes place in the week of the grand finale, which is set for Monday, August 23, meaning the parents could be making an entrance sometime next week.

However, as the show is shot in Mallorca – which is currently on the UK’s amber travel list – many have been wondering if the parents will be able to travel out to the villa.

While many have speculated that parents would be feature on the show via Zoom, a source for The Sun shared the rumour that fully vaccinated parents will be able to travel to the villa.

According to the source, ‘the plan is to fly out the families to Spain if they’re double jabbed and happy to travel within the rules. Then there will be a socially distanced meeting – and there will be fireworks.’

Fans have taken to Twitter to express their anticipation for a potential parents episode, with many thinking an intervention from Mum and Dad is just what the contestants need.

If Teddy doesnâ€™t get voted out I hope he stays long enough for his parents to come to the villa to give him some stern words #loveisland
— Don Juan DeMarcoðŸ§‘ðŸ¾â€ðŸš€ (@T2uso) August 10, 2021

Meeting the parents is going to be interesting Faye and Teddy #loveIsland pic.twitter.com/abnvqnNpn2
— annette ðŸ™ðŸ¼ðŸ¥‚ðŸŽ‰ðŸ’œ (@annette_xxxxx) August 10, 2021

Other fans, however, were quick to worry what the parents might think, particularly after some of the contestants got a little hot under the covers.

Their parents watching like: #loveisland pic.twitter.com/i0aQBDO9PG
— ðŸ‘‹ðŸ¾ (@rayeray09608379) August 11, 2021

Their parents watching the show like #LoveIsland pic.twitter.com/CsDWuKwffB
— â‹†â™¡â‹† (@__sippycup__) August 11, 2021

Either way, whether a ‘meet the parents’ episode happens at all, there’s going to be some explaining to do when the contestants do return home.

Love Island is on ITV 2 at 9pm. Catch up with the series so far on ITV Hub and BritBox.

MORE : Love Island 2021: Teddy Soares’ family praise record-breaking Ofcom complaints after Faye Winter blowout

MORE : Love Island 2021: Viewers convinced Liberty Poole is faking going off Jake Cornish for challenge

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Simon Webbe teases brand new Blue album and we’re here for it

2021-08-13T01:21:00.001+05:00

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Simon Webbe teased some very intriguing Blue news this week (Picture: Getty)

Simon Webbe has teased new music from Blue to celebrate the band’s 20th anniversary.

The group – Simon, 45, Duncan James, 43, Antony Costa, 40, and Lee Ryan, 38 – last released album Colours in 2015, with the foursome going on tour the same year.

Acting coy at first, the singer winked at the camera and confirmed something was in the works for the pop stars during a chat with FUBAR Radio hosts Bobby Norris and Stephen Leng on this week’s Access All Areas.

‘Something’s definitely in the works,’ he said. ‘It’s just that we can’t, we just want to make sure that all of the T’s are crossed and all of the I’s are dotted, and all the contracts are in place.

‘But, you know, as Blue we’ve always continuously made music over the years.’

The group haven’t released an album since Colours but the musicians have been touring as Blue Live since 2016, and Simon spoke of the far flung destinations they recently put on shows.

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He said: ‘You know what, it’s really, really hard to say because with Blue, we’ve never gone anywhere, we’ve always been together.

‘Before the lockdown we was in Bali doing weddings and then we was off to do a tour around Southeast Asia, so we’re always together.’

Meanwhile, the former Strictly come Dancing star has been concentrating on matters at home after becoming a father for the first time earlier this year.

He and wife Ayshen announced they were expecting in February and they welcomed their baby in April after they previously suffered two miscarriages.

Taking to Instagram to announce the happy news, Simon wrote: ‘We’re so blessed to announce we have a new arrival.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CPbKCb1DFEL/

‘Our baby is doing well, Mummy is in recovery and Daddy is rushed off his feet! We want to be honest and let you know we’re in our perfect bubble – our pregnancy reveal was with @hellomag and you will finally get to meet our bundle of joy through them too!

‘We can’t wait to introduce you to the most perfect baby. We’re so in love. Thank you so much for all your support – it means the world. The Webbes xxx.’

Ayshen became pregnant six months after she and Simon got married in August 2018, but suffered a miscarriage shortly after.

The pair were left ‘devastated’ following the loss, and later went through the same experience again a year later.

Due to the stress it had caused them, the couple decided to stop trying for a baby, however, this ultimately led to Ayshen’s successful pregnancy.

Simon added: ‘Ayshen fell pregnant immediately. So our baby was made out of love with no pressure.’

The Blue singer is already a father to daughter Alanah, 24, from a previous relationship.

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From metro.co.uk

EastEnders spoilers: Jean Slater destroyed as Ruby Allen confesses Stacey didn’t push her

2021-08-13T01:20:00.005+05:00

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Ruby came clean about her role in Stacey’s imprisonment (Picture: BBC)

Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) was left speechless in EastEnders tonight (August 12), as Ruby Allen (Louisa Lytton) came clean about having set Stacey (Lacey Turner) up.

Ruby, desperate to make amends for what she’s done, previously transferred £2,000 to Jean’s bank account. Jean, however, did not want the cash, branding it ‘blood money’, as she returned it to its owner.

A tearful Ruby begged her to accept the gesture, claiming that much like her dad before her, she doesn’t know how to rectify a situation in any other way but to throw money at it.

The nightclub owner broke down in tears, much to the shock of Jean, who was horrified to learn that she was in agony. Upon discovering that Ruby was due at the hospital, Jean once again decided to accompany her.

To placate Ruby, she agreed to accept money to pay for a train ticket to visit son Sean (Rob Kazinsky), but that was the height of it.

The duo then set off to the hospital, where Ruby awaited news after an examination from the doctor. She was certain that the news would be bad, but Jean suggested that she think positively.

Ruby was struggling with the guilt of what she did to Stacey (Picture: BBC)

Jean was left in shock by what Ruby told her (Picture: BBC)

Ruby, however, was unable to do so, reflecting on how bad things happened to dad Johnny because he was an inherently bad person, and therefore the same fate awaits her.

Jean remained confused by Ruby’s pessimistic outlook, which prompted the nightclub owner to make a huge confession.

‘I didn’t try and get the charges dropped Jean’, said Ruby, after a deep breath. ‘Stacey didn’t push me!’.

Jean, no doubt like the viewers at home, was rendered speechless.

Ruby, as viewers will know, lied to the police, claiming that Stacey had pushed her down the stairs, causing her to have a miscarriage. In reality, she had simply tripped amid a showdown with her former best mate.

But the CCTV footage coincidentally backed up her claims of foul play. Stacey was therefore subsequently sentenced to prison, much to the dismay of Jean.

How will Jean react in the wake of his revelation? Will she tell Martin Fowler (James Bye) the truth?

EastEnders continues Friday August 13 at 8:35pm on BBC One.

If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

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MORE : EastEnders spoilers: Hollyoaks star Charlie Wernham cast as Harvey’s son Aaron Monroe

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From metro.co.uk

Nick Grimshaw reveals heartfelt meaning behind final song choice in last Radio 1 show

2021-08-13T01:20:00.003+05:00

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Nick Grimshaw hosted his final show on BBC Radio 1 this week, and had a meaningful reason for choosing his final song (Picture: Rex)

Nick Grimshaw spoke of the meaningful reason he chose his final song as he bowed out from BBC Radio 1 after nearly 14 years on air on Thursday afternoon.

The DJ, 36, selected the tune after hearing it on his bike ride home the day before and decided on the track despite never playing it on the station before.

He went on to explain he saw the name of the song in the window of a cafe on a neon sign and that was the deciding factor for him.

Announcing he’d chosen 1983 tune This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody) by Talking Heads, he said: ‘Now I’ve got to play my final song on Radio 1 and it’s a song I’ve never played on Radio 1, and it’s a song that was out before I was even born.

‘Last night I was cycling home and I didn’t know what to play, it was between two songs and it was going to be a silly song. I was going to play Ariana Grande’s Thank U, Next, but I thought no.

‘And then as I was cycling home, and I’m not even kidding, this song is called This Must Be The Place, and this is a true story, there was a neon sign in a window that said “this must be the place” and I took that as a literal sign.

‘This song, for me, I wanted a song that felt special to me, that was full of emotion, that was life affirming.

‘It makes me feel warm, it makes me feel welcomed, and most importantly it makes me feel. So, that’s why I wanted to play it.’

He concluded: ‘So, thank you for listening, thank you for being part of making my dream come true, and I’m honestly, truly thankful, so enjoy this.

‘See you around.’

Minutes before, Nick encouraged his listeners to go after their dreams, explaining he thought being a radio DJ was as like being an astronaut, something he thought was unachievable for him.

However, he said his family encouraged him to chase his dreams, as they told him: ‘Well, people are astronauts.’

Nick said: ‘If you do have a dream, don’t talk yourself out of it. Don’t be scared of it, don’t think you don’t deserve it, because if I can do it, you can do it, and you can do anything you want.

‘If you do have a dream, I think it’s important that you go for it.’

Elsewhere in his final show, Nick was treated to a string of surprise messages from celebrities, including his close pal Harry Styles who thanked the DJ for his support throughout his career.

Got a story?

MORE : Harry Styles recalls wild drunken night with Nick Grimshaw in special message as presenter hosts final Radio 1 show

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From metro.co.uk

Home Alone reboot confirmed for Disney Plus and the release date’s just in time for Christmas

2021-08-13T01:20:00.001+05:00

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The Home Alone reboot film is coming (Picture: 20th Century Fox)

Brace yourselves, as a brand new Home Alone film is coming to Disney Plus just in time for Christmas.

The streaming service has officially announced Home Sweet Home Alone, which is intended as the first film in a reboot of the franchise.

Produced by 20^th Century Studios, the upcoming project boasts a star-studded cast, consisting of Archie Yates, Ellie Kemper, Rob Delaney, Aisling Bea, Kenan Thompson, Tim Simons, Aly Maki and many more.

Disney Plus has also shared images of the cast holding up the title of the film across social media, and confirmed it will be available to stream from November 12.

Home Sweet Home Alone focuses on young boy Max Mercer (Archie Yates) who, as you can probably guess, is left behind at home by mistake while the rest of his family head to Japan for the Christmas holidays.

When a crime-loving married couple, who are after a heirloom set, decide to set their sights on the Mercy’s family home, it is up to Max to stop the thieves from trespassing.

The cast of Home Sweet Home Alone confirmed the title and the release date of the film across social media (Picture: Disney Plus/Twitter)

Saturday Night Live writer Streeter Seidell and Mikey Day have been responsible for the movie’s story and screenplay, which is based on John Hughes’ original screenplay of the first Home Alone film.

Hutch Parker and Dan Wilson have produced the flick, while Jeremiah Samuels is executive producer.

The first Home Alone film was released in 1990 (Picture: 20th Century Fox)

This is the sixth overall title in the Home Alone series, with the first instalment released in 1990, with Maculay Culkin playing the role of Kevin McAllister.

The success of the movie spawned a 1992 sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost In New York, and a third film, released in 1997, introduced an entirely new cast, but with a similar plot to the previous instalments.

Since then, two made-for-TV sequels have been broadcast on ABC in the US: Home Alone 4: Taking Back the House in 2002, and Home Alone: The Holiday Heist in 2012.

Home Sweet Home Alone will be released to Disney Plus on November 12.

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From metro.co.uk

Hollyoaks spoilers: Sienna brands Summer a ‘conniving little witch’ and teams up with Brody to destroy her

2021-08-13T00:20:00.019+05:00

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Sienna has at last seen Summer for the manipulator that she is (Picture: Lime Pictures)

Summer Ranger (Rhiannon Clements) certainly gave her a run for her money, but Sienna Blake (Anna Passey) proved tonight why she is still the greatest schemer in the land of Hollyoaks, as she turned the tables on her manipulative girlfriend.

Summer has been gaslighting Sienna for weeks, making her think that Brody Hudson (Adam Woodward) is a vile abuser and killer.

She even attempted to make her believe that Liberty Savage (Jessamy Stoddart) was dead, when in reality she’s been keeping her prisoner at a storage unit.

Brody, meanwhile, returned to the eponymous village in the wake of Summer’s accusations, and broke into Sienna’s flat, hoping to see his beloved daughter Faith.

What he didn’t expect to find, however, was Sienna and Summer in the middle of a heated row, as Summer, claiming to be frightened of Brody, pleaded with Sienna to come away to France with her.

Summer set her sights on Brody and, forced to improvise, feigned terror, ordering him to stay away from her.

Brody confronted Sienna, branding Summer’s accusations ‘lies’ (Picture: Lime Pictures)

Sienna claimed she’d called the police on Brody (Picture: Lime Pictures)

Brody, meanwhile, remained calm and collected, informing Sienna that he would never lay a finger on anyone, and that Summer is lying about him having killed Liberty.

Sienna, however, seemingly believed Summer over him, calling the police. Brody asked her to hand the phone over, and after she did so, he spoke into the handset.

Afterwards, he made a run for it, while a terrified Sienna granted Summer her wish in the wake of the showdown, telling her that she was right about Brody all along and therefore they need to move to France permanently.

Summer was elated, and set about making plans, but there was a huge twist in store.

You see, Sienna has been playing Summer for quite some time, and she later met up with Brody in The Folly. Yes, you guessed it: they are in cahoots together!

Reunited at last (Picture: Lime Pictures)

Clever Sienna turned the tables on her girlfriend (Picture: Lime Pictures)

A series of flashbacks indicated that the school teacher had simply claimed to have called the police, when in reality, she never made no such call. Upon Brody receiving her mobile, he realised that Sienna had not informed the authorities about his presence in the village, meaning she believed him.

He then organised a secret rendezvous with her in The Folly.

‘[Summer] has filled my head with so many lies,’ said Sienna, ‘but as soon as I saw Liberty’s handwriting, everything started to fall into place.

‘I knew you were telling the truth. That Summer did everything in her power to turn me against you. I know that [you didn’t hurt Liberty].

‘Deep down, I have always known that. But I had to box clever with Summer. Make her think that she was manipulating me, when really I was the one playing her.’

Discussing their plan to take Summer down and find Liberty, Sienna said that the police cannot be involved just yet, as Summer is ‘too slippery’ for that.

‘We have to play that conniving little witch at her own game’, she added. ‘And then we take her down together.’

Did anyone else get goosebumps?

Sienna may have reclaimed her crown as the best manipulator Hollyoaks has ever known, but now the race is on, as a showdown of epic proportion awaits.

And with Summer having her gun at hand, the question remains: who will make it out of this alive? And who will not?

Hollyoaks continues Friday August 12 at 7pm on E4.

If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage.

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From metro.co.uk

Bill Cosby to plead the Fifth in civil lawsuit alleging he assaulted teen at Playboy Mansion in 1974

2021-08-13T00:20:00.017+05:00

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Bill Cosby will choose the right to remain silent in his upcoming civil lawsuit (Picture: EPA)

Bill Cosby’s lawyer has revealed the disgraced comedian will plead the Fifth in his ongoing civil lawsuit.

The 84-year-old’s attorney told a Los Angeles Superior Court judge on Wednesday that Cosby will invoke his right to remain silent with regards to allegations he sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl.

The lawyer claimed Cosby has chosen not to speak about the claims he assaulted Judy Hath at Hugh Hefner’s Playboy Mansion in California in 1984 amid fears he could be prosecuted again.

Huth alleges Cosby plied her and a friend with pills and alcohol at the Playboy Mansion, before sexually assaulting her.

She sued Cosby in civil court in 2014 before the case was put on hold in 2016 amid the criminal case against the comedian.

Huth is one of at least 60 women to accuse the comedian of sexual assault and misconduct over the years but, due to the statute of limitations expiring in many cases, Cosby was only ever convicted of assaulting one woman.

The disgraced comedian was recently released from prison after his 2018 conviction was overturned (Picture: AP)

Cosby had been found guilty on three counts of aggravated indecent assault in 2018 and was sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.

However, the conviction was overturned in July by the Pennsylvania State Supreme Court and he was released after three years in prison.

The court’s decision to vacate Cosby’s conviction stems back to an agreement between Cosby and then-District Attorney in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, Bruce Castor.

At least 60 women have come forward with allegations of sexual assault and misconduct against the star (Picture: Reuters)

Constand had gone to Castor in 2005, alleging that Cosby had drugged and sexually assaulted her at his home in 2004.

At the time, Castor declined to prosecute Cosby, stating there was not enough evidence to get a conviction and suggested to Constand that she pursue a civil case against Cosby.

Cosby will not speak on allegations he sexually assaulted a teen in the Playboy Mansion in 1974 (Picture: Matt Rourke-Pool/Getty Images)

She did so and Cosby ultimately settled the civil suit $3.38million (£2.3m) after Castor came to an agreement with Cosby that if he sat for a deposition in Constand’s civil case, he would be immune from criminal prosecution in the case.

However, Castor’s successor Kevin Steele brought charges against Cosby in 2015, arresting him days before the statute of limitations expired.

The testimony given by Cosby in his deposition in the civil suit, in which he admitted that he gave quaaludes to women he wanted to have sex with, was used against Cosby in the criminal trial.

In its judgment, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court held that the decision to use Cosby’s assertions in his deposition against him deprived him of his Fifth Amendment rights.

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Farmer sent abuse saying his son could be alive if not for his ‘evil industry’

2021-08-13T00:20:00.015+05:00

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Guto Jenkins is still grieving over the death of his son in a farming accident (Picture: Wales News Service)

A grieving dad who accidentally killed his own son was told his child ‘would still be here if he was not a dairy farmer’ by an animal rights activist.

Guto Jenkins, 31, was using his tractor on his farm in the village of Efailwen, in West Wales, when he struck his three-year-old son playing on his bike on August 3.

Ianto’s parents desperately called the police but the little boy had already been crushed to death.

Guto’s mother Meinir, 61, said: ‘No one is to blame. Ianto was playing in his new bike in the back yard and my son just didn’t know he was there.

‘It is just heartbreaking. Poor Guto, I don’t know how he’s going to live with this. He is completely devastated.’

Whilst grappling with this horrific tragedy, an animal rights fanatic sent Guto a horrible message.

Using an online profile with the name Simon Wilson, the troll said: ‘You run a dairy farm! One of the cruelest industries out there!

‘If you hadn’t had such an evil industry perhaps your son would still be here!

‘Millions of cows dying not just for their meat but for their milk too (which we don’t need).’

Guto did not see his son playing on his bike on the farm (Picture: Wales News Service)

Ianto’s mum described him as a ‘kind boy who was always smiling and laughing’ (Picture: Wales News Service)

The nasty message was revealed by Conservative MP Samuel Kurtz – who represents Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire.

He said that the online abuse had left him ‘angered beyond belief’.

‘Some find sending the following message acceptable?’ he said. ‘My thoughts, and all those of this community in West Wales, are with the family during this incredibly difficult time.’

Another member of the Welsh Senedd, Rhys ab Owen, agreed with his colleague calling the message ‘despicable’ and ‘difficult to understand’.

Paying tribute to her son, Ianto’s mum Chloe said: ‘Ianto was my blue-eyed boy, he was an inspiration to life, he was a kind little boy who was always smiling and laughing.

‘He loved being out on the farm and going on the tractor with his daddy.

‘Ianto and I had a very strong bond, he was “mummy’s little boy” and was always by my side everywhere we went, now that’s been taken from me.

‘No parent should lose a child and I would like people to respect our wishes, giving us space at this very difficult, heartbreaking time.’

Police are investigating the circumstances around Ianto’s death and supporting his grieving parents.

Pembrokeshire’s Coroner Paul Bennett is expected to soon open an inquest into the tragedy.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

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From metro.co.uk

School of Rock actress Rivkah Reyes reveals film’s ending was written by 13-year-old star

2021-08-13T00:20:00.013+05:00

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Late actor Kevin Clark wrote the ending to School of Rock (Picture: Paramount)

School of Rock would have had a very different ending if it hadn’t been for one of the movie’s child stars.

The 2003 comedy sees Jack Black as a failed rocker who poses as a substitute teacher at a fancy preparatory school and get the kids to fall in love with music.

At the end of the movie, he gets all the kids in his class to ditch school to take part in the battle of the band.

But apparently, the outcome of the competition was initially meant to be very different.

Actress Rivkah Reyes – who played bassist Katie in the movie – recently posted a TikTok recounting how the ending the writers put in the script just ‘wasn’t landing’.

Remembering her friend and co-star Kevin Clark – who played drummer Freddy in the movie – Reyes revealed that the late actor was responsible for coming up with the ending.

@rivkah.reyes
missing kev. his legacy will forever live on. #rip #kevinclark #schoolofrock #moviefacts
♬ Brain Stew – Green Day

‘I have this very interesting story about my friend Kevin Clark, this guy, Spazzy McGee,’ Reyes said in her video.

‘I love him so much and I am missing him a lot today. I was holding a pair of his drumsticks yesterday and I just felt called to tell you all this story.

‘So at one of our earlier table reads, the ending wasn’t landing. We tried one version of it where we win, we tried another version of it where we lose and that’s it, and it just wasn’t hitting.

‘And the team was like “What do we do about this ending?” and Kevin is just like, “It would be cool if we lost and then the audience started cheering “School of rock! School of Rock!” and then they bring us out for an encore.

Clark died last May in a car accident (Picture: Rick Kern/Getty Images)

‘So this guy at 13 years old wrote the ending of School Of Rock,’ she said smiling.

Getting emotional talking about her friend, Reyes added: ‘He was just such an amazing creative talented guy, and I just miss him so much.

‘I love you Kev, every day. I think about you every day and I miss you so so much but I know you are here,’ she said putting a hand on her heart.

Clark, who was a professional drummer, died in late May at the age of 32 after a motorist hit him as he was cycling in Chicago.

Black commemorated the young star of his movie at the time in an Instagram post, sharing a picture of them together on School of Rock and a recent snap with an adult Clark.

‘Devastating news. Kevin is gone. Way too soon,’ the star wrote in the caption. ‘Beautiful soul. So many great memories. Heartbroken. Sending love to his family and the whole School of Rock community.’

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MORE : ‘Heartbroken’ Jack Black leads tributes to School of Rock star Kevin Clark after death

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From metro.co.uk

Aldi worker blew £12,000 stolen takings on ‘drugs and prostitutes’

2021-08-13T00:20:00.011+05:00

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Steven Pyle was caught on CCTV trying to hide bags of money down his trousers (Picture: North News & Pictures Ltd)

An Aldi employee stuffed more than £12,000 in takings down his trousers before blowing it on drugs and prostitutes, a court heard.

Steven Pyle, 34, stole the cash in a bid to ‘go out with a bang’, two days after handing in his notice unexpectedly.

But the supermarket worker, who had a £150-per-day cocaine habit, was caught out when G4S security officials arrived on May 3 to empty the safe and noticed three money bags were missing.

He was filmed on CCTV shoving money bags down his trousers while trying but failing to conceal his crime at a branch of the supermarket in Stamfordham, Newcastle.

Pyle was battling life as a ‘functioning drug addict’ and had come close to suicide but has since sought out help, Newcastle Crown Court heard.

Prosecutor Jenny Haigh said: ‘G4S counted the bags and noticed there were 22 but the computer said there should be 25.

‘There was concern three bags were missing.’

‘They looked at the CCTV where Mr Pyle was the person who was dropping the cash bags in.

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‘On closely looking, the defendant seemed to mark up the bags as normal but instead of dropping them in the safe as she should, he seems to conceal them in the front of his trousers while his back is turned away from the CCTV camera.’

Mr Recorder Matthew Happold warned Pyle he was ‘very close’ to going to prison.

Sentencing him to six months behind bars, suspended for a year, the judge told Pyle: ‘Instead of putting cash bags into the safe, you put them down your trousers at the Aldi store in Stamfordham Road, Newcastle.

‘The pre-sentence report says at the time you had decided to take your own life and you wanted to go out with a bang.

‘You took the bags with the intention of replacing it with your gambling winnings.

‘The report says you essentially blew it on drugs and prostitutes.’

Pyle must also complete 80 hours unpaid work and undergo rehabilitation requirements including alcohol treatment.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

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From metro.co.uk

Colin in Black and White: First look at Netflix series based on NFL star Kaepernick’s high school years

2021-08-13T00:20:00.009+05:00

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Colin in Black and White is coming to Netflix in October (Picture: Netflix)

Netflix has given a first look at its upcoming series, Colin in Black & White, which is inspired by the teenage years of NFL star Colin Kaepernick.

The limited series will explore the sports star’s experiences of being a black teenager living with a white adopted family.

Nearly a year after the project was announced, the first pictures from the limited series, co-created by Ava DuVernay, are here and Colin can’t wait for the world to enjoy the project.

The American football star stated: ‘I’m excited to share this first peek into a project I co-created with the incomparable Ava DuVernay over the past couple of years.

‘I look forward to the world meeting the incredible Jaden Michael, a young actor who plays me during my high school years, just a kid growing up in Turlock, California who wanted to play ball.’

The 33-year-old activist will feature as the narrator of the six-episode series, while Jaden Michael portrays Young Colin before he went on to reach the highest levels of American football as an NFL quarterback and becoming a cultural icon and activist.

Jaden Michael stars as teen Colin in the show (Picture: Ser Baffo/Netflix)

NFL star Kaepernick serves as the narrator for the series (Picture: Netflix)

Meanwhile, Nick Offerman and Mary-Louise Parker play his well-meaning parents Rick and Teresa.

Netflix describes the show as a ‘bold new limited series that chronicles Kaepernick’s coming of age story, tackling the obstacles of race, class, and culture as the Black adopted child of a white family.’

The series promises to guide viewers through a robust and colorfully presented array of historical and contemporary contextual moments.

Colin in Black & White is available to stream on Netflix from October 29.

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From metro.co.uk

Una Stubbs dead: Her best acting roles from Aunt Sally to Sherlock’s Mrs Hudson

2021-08-13T00:20:00.007+05:00

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Una Subbs was a well known and loved face on British TV (Picture: Rex/Getty/ITV)

Una Subbs has sadly died at the age of 84.

Known primarily for her role in films and series including EastEnders, Worzel Gummidge and Sherlock, she was an extraordinary talent who will be missed by many.

Her family confirmed the news of her death in a statement, saying Una died at her home in Edinburgh.

They said: ‘Mum passed away quietly today with her family around her, in Edinburgh. We ask for privacy and understanding at this most difficult and sad of times.’

Una’s agent also told BBC News that she had been ill for sometime.

The actress first found fame in the 1960s, appearing in films including Sir Cliff Richard’s Summer Holiday and Wonderful Life.

Una enjoyed a career in film and TV just over 60 years (Picture: Getty Images)

It was on television that her star power really rose, after she landed the role of Rita on Till Death Us Do Part in 1966, playing the character until 1975, before reprising the role in Till Death… and the sequel In Sickness and In Health.

Following the news of the death, Metro.co.uk has taken a look back at some of Una’s most memorable on-screen roles.

Una Stubbs acting career – from Sherlock to Worzel Gummidge and EastEnders

Summer Holiday

Una’s first major on-screen role was in Sir Cliff Richard’s film Summer Holiday (Picture: Rex)

The 1963 film was one of Una’s first major on-screen roles and helped to kickstart her career.

Starring Sir Cliff Richard, the musical sees Don (Cliff) and his friends Cyril (Melvyn Hayes), Steve (Teddy Green), and Edwin (Jeremy Bulloch) transform a double-decker bus into a holiday caravan, as they drive across continental Europe.

Una played the part of Sandy, a young women who joins the trio on their trip.

Till Death Us Do Part

Una’s career breakthrough came with her role as Rita Rawlins in Till Death Us Do Part (Picture: Studio Canal/Rex)

Starring as Rita Rawlins, this BBC series, first broadcast between 1965 and 1968 and again between 1972 and 1975, saw Una’s career go from strength to strength.

The show became a huge success as although it was a sitcom, it also dealt with aspects of British working-class life, as well as racial and political issues that were prevalent in the 1960s.

Rita was the wife of Mike Rawlins (Anthony Booth), a socialist layabout from Liverpool. Her parents included Alf Garnett (Warren Mitchell), a working-class man with anti-socialist views, and his wife Else (Dandy Nicholas).

Worzel Gummidge

Una’s role as Aunt Sally in Worzel Gummidge is one of her most recognisable (Picture: ITV/Rex)

One of Una’s most recognisable TV roles was of Aunt Sally in the ITV series Worzel Gummidge, which was broadcast between 1979 and 1981 and based on the series of books by Barbara Euphan Todd.

Aunt Sally was a life-size fairground doll, and a femme fatale to the titular character (Jon Pertwee).

This was changed significantly from the original book series, which portrayed Aunt Sally as an actual Aunt to Worzel.

EastEnders

Una played a short stint as Caroline Bishop in EastEnders in 2006 (Picture: BBC)

In 2006, Una headed to Albert Square as Caroline Bishop, the maternal aunt of Honey Mitchell (Emma Barton), who acted as a surrogate mother to her when her biological mother died during childbirth.

Despite only appearing in the BBC soap for a number of months that year, she certainly made her mark on-screen.

Caroline visited Walford for Honey’s second wedding to Billy Mitchell (Perry Fenwick), and arrives alongside her father, Jack Edwards (Nicky Henson), which makes Peggy Mitchell (Barbara Windsor) jealous.

She later returned to the square for Honey’s third surprise wedding, and accompanied her in hospital when she went into labour.

When Honey contemplates giving up her daughter Janet (Grace) for adoption, she visits Caroline, who revealed she had once done the same thing.

Sherlock

Una starred as Mrs Hudson, the landlady of 221B Baker Street, in Sherlock (Picture: BBC)

In the BBC crime drama Sherlock, Una starred as Mrs Hudson, portraying the character for all four series, which aired between 2010 and 2017.

Mrs Hudson is the landlady of 221B Baker Street, where Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) resides. She offers Sherlock a lower rent after he helped in ensuring that her husband was executed for his involvement in a double murder in Florida.

Although she repeatedly tries to tell Sherlock she is not their housekeeper, she often acts like she is, and is horrified to discover the detective is keeping human body parts in his kitchen appliances for experimentation.

She also consistently believes that Sherlock is romantically involved in a relationship with Dr John Watson (Martin Freeman), despite John’s repeated protests that he is not gay.

In the series two episode A Scandal In Belgravia, Sherlock throws an agent out of a window upon discovering he had tortured Mrs Hudson, and later says that ‘England would fall’ if she were to leave Baker Street.

In the series three episode His Last Vow, Mrs Hudson’s full name is revealed as Martha Louise Hudson, with her maiden name as Sissons.

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From metro.co.uk

Bellator London: Former Cage Warriors title challenger Jack Grant to make promotion debut on Page vs Lima bill

2021-08-13T00:20:00.005+05:00

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Jack Grant to make his Bellator bow in London (Picture: Cage Warriors)

Jack Grant will make his Bellator debut when the promotion returns to London on 1 October.

The Grimsby welterweight will take on fellow Brit Nathan Jones at the SSE Arena, Wembley, having made the move over from Cage Warriors.

The 29-year-old, who holds a record of 17 wins with seven defeats, fought for the Cage Warriors welterweight title in June, coming up short against Ian Garry.

Bellator returns to the UK for the first time since November 2019 later this year with Michael ‘Venom’ Page set to take on Douglas Lima in a huge main event.

Page was undefeated in the sport before suffering a stunning knockout defeat to Lima in 2019, breaking a run of 14 straight wins.

The Brazilian went onto win the welterweight title, losing the belt to Yaroslav Amosov last month.

He and Page will now settle their unfinished business in the capital with the winner likely to earn a title shot against Amosov.

MORE : Michael ‘Venom’ Page and Douglas Lima to meet in huge rematch at Bellator London in October

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Team GB Olympic silver medallist CJ Ujah provisionally suspended for alleged doping violation

2021-08-13T00:20:00.003+05:00

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Ujah helped Great Britain to silver less than a week ago (Picture: Getty)

CJ Ujah, part of the Great Britain team that won silver in the men’s 4x100m relay at the Tokyo Olympics, has been provisionally suspended for an anti-doping violation.

The British sprinter was among four athletes from different nations suspended pending an investigation by the Athletics Integrity Unit for testing positive for a banned substance.

If the suspension is upheld, Great Britain face the possibility of being stripped of the silver medal they won six days ago.

Ujah was part of the team alongside Zharnel Hughes, Richard Kilty and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake that finished second behind Italy.

Ujah ran the opening leg in the final with Italy clinching victory in the closing stages, winning by just one-hundredth of a second.

Ujah (far left) tested positive for a banned substance (Picture: Getty)

Canada finished in third with China outside the medal places in fourth.

The Athletics Integrity Unit alleges that Ujah has tested positive for SARMSs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators): S23 and Ostarine.

Moroccan 1,500m runner Sadik Mikhou, Georgian shot putter Benik Abramyan and Kenyan sprinter Mark Otieno Odhiambo have also been provisionally suspended.

A statement from the Athletics Integrity Unit read: ‘In accordance with the IOC Anti-Doping Rules and the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has commenced disciplinary proceedings to determine any consequences beyond the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games to be imposed upon four (4) track and field athletes who are asserted to have committed antidoping rules violations following testing conducting by the International Testing Agency (ITA) during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

‘The AIU worked closely with the ITA during the Games and provided the intelligence to carry out specific target testing on two of the four athletes.

‘The AIU now awaits the conclusion of the ITA proceedings against the above athletes, which will determine whether any anti-doping rule violations have been committed and what consequences (if any) should be imposed in relation to the Olympic Games.

‘Any consequences beyond the Olympic Games to be imposed upon the athletes under the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules will be determined following the conclusion of the ITA proceedings.’

The UK Anti-Doping Agency (Ukad) website describes Ostarine as having ‘a similar effect to testosterone’.

It adds: ‘Dietary supplements containing Ostarine typically claim to promote muscle building. Unscrupulous manufacturers may market such products as ‘legal steroids’ or ‘steroid alternatives’

MORE : Tokyo Olympics officially comes to a close as Team GB finish with 22 gold medals

MORE : William and Kate hail Team GB for ‘doing nation proud’ at Tokyo Olympics

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Romelu Lukaku explains why he has returned to Chelsea for second spell

2021-08-13T00:20:00.001+05:00

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Chelsea have completed a club-record £97.5m deal for Romelu Lukaku (Picture: Chelsea FC)

Romelu Lukaku says he feels ‘happy and blessed’ to return to Chelsea and hopes the experience he has picked up since his initial spell will help the club achieve further trophy success.

Thomas Tuchel has been intent on adding a proven centre-forward to his squad following Olivier Giroud’s departure earlier this summer and Chelsea accelerated their bid to sign Lukaku after giving up hope of landing Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland.

Lukaku arrives back at Stamford Bridge from Inter Milan in a club-record deal worth £97.5million and the Belgium international has put pen to paper on a five-year contract in west London.

The 28-year-old adds quality to a star-studded Chelsea attack already boasting the likes of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic, who will all be hungry for more silverware after their Champions League triumph last term.

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‘I’m happy and blessed to be back at this wonderful club,’ Lukaku told Chelsea’s official website.

‘It’s been a long journey for me: I came here as a kid who had a lot to learn, now I’m coming back with a lot of experience and more mature.

‘The relationship I have with this club means so much to me, as you know.

‘I have supported Chelsea as a kid and now to be back and try to help them win more titles is an amazing feeling.’

Welcome home, @RomeluLukaku9. ðŸ’™#LukWhosBack pic.twitter.com/P43CAIVqfU
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 12, 2021

Lukaku is confident he is rejoining Chelsea at the perfect stage of his career, seven years after bringing an end to his first spell at the club.

The Belgian established himself as one of the most lethal frontmen in Serie A across his two years in Italy and only Cristiano Ronaldo bettered his goalscoring tally (24) as Inter won their 19th Scudetto last term.

‘The way the club is going fits my ambitions perfectly at 28 and just coming off winning Serie A,’ Lukaku added.

‘I think this opportunity comes at the right time and hopefully we can have a lot of success together.

‘Since I left Chelsea, it’s been a long journey with a lot of ups and downs, but these experiences made me strong and the challenge is to try to help the team win some more trophies.

‘I can’t wait to get started and to help the club achieve more success.’

On the striker’s arrival, Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said: ‘Romelu Lukaku is quite simply one of the world’s best strikers and goalscorers.

‘We are absolutely delighted to be bringing him back to the club he loves, and are excited to be adding his talent to our Champions League-winning squad.

‘We are of course looking to build on last season’s success, and Lukaku will play a big role in achieving our targets.

‘I’m sure all Chelsea fans will join me in saying welcome home, Romelu!’

MORE : Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp would not sign Romelu Lukaku ‘in a million years’, says Gary Neville

MORE : Thomas Tuchel explains why he replaced Edouard Mendy with Kepa Arrizabalaga for Chelsea’s Super Cup penalty shootout win over Villarreal

From metro.co.uk

Rio Ferdinand reacts to Hakim Ziyech’s injury in Chelsea’s Super Cup clash with Villarreal

2021-08-12T02:20:00.009+05:00

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Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech was forced off at the end of the first half (Picture: Getty)

Rio Ferdinand bemoaned Hakim Ziyech’s ‘disappointing’ shoulder injury in Chelsea’s Super Cup meeting with Villarreal and urged the midfielder ‘do his rehab and protect himself’ to ensure a strong return.

Ziyech opened the scoring with a smart close-range finish at Windsor Park but the 28-year-old’s night was brought to a premature end as he was forced off in the 43rd minute.

The Morocco international appeared to be caught by Juan Foyth’s arm before landing awkwardly and looked in serious discomfort as he was administered oxygen on the pitch by Chelsea’s medical staff.

Christian Pulisic came on to replace Ziyech soon after and the latter was pictured wearing a sling as he watched on from the substitutes bench in the second half in Belfast.

Ziyech was pictured wearing a sling in the second half (Picture: Getty)

It’s just the latest setback for Ziyech, who missed a large part of last season – his first in England – with separate hip and knee problems.

Reacting to Ziyech’s injury, BT Sport pundit Ferdinand said: ‘A lot of injuries happen like that, when you least expect it. He’s not even in touch with the ball and Foyth – who was marking him – just jumped and didn’t know where Ziyech was.

‘His arm was above his shoulder and he’s just thrown it out.

‘It’s disappointing as he’s had a really good pre-season but this was an important season for him.

‘We spoke about Havertz and Werner struggling after their first season. Ziyech was the same. He didn’t get to the heights of his Ajax form and was looking to do that this season.

‘It started today with a goal but it was cut short through injury and it’s disappointing for him.’

Ferdinand fears Ziyech’s shoulder may be a ‘weakness’ going forward but hopes the ex-Ajax star looks after himself and takes his rehab seriously.

The former England and Manchester United defender added: ‘I played with a number of players who struggled with shoulder injuries.

‘Rafael Da Silva did it at Manchester United and it’s an injury that can just happen again and again.

‘No matter what rehab you do, you can be diligent with your rehab but it can still be a weakness when you go out there and play.

‘He’ll have to do his rehab and protect himself.’

MORE : Romelu Lukaku arrival ‘puts pressure’ on Chelsea star Timo Werner, says Rio Ferdinand

MORE : Romelu Lukaku the ‘perfect player’ to take Chelsea squad to next level, says Belgium manager Roberto Martinez

From metro.co.uk

Hottest ever temperature recorded in Europe as Italy hits 48.8ºC

2021-08-12T02:20:00.007+05:00

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Sicily has been plagued by wildfires and blistering heat this summer (Picture: @MetOffice/Twitter/AP)

Italy looks to have smashed the European temperature record amid a heatwave scorching southern parts of the continent.

The near 50ºC heat recorded in Sicily on Wednesday comes just two days after a landmark climate study made dire warnings about the global environmental crisis.

The city of Syracuse’s new provisional record of 48.8ºC (119.8 Fahrenheit) would easily beat the previous continental high of 48ºC, which has stood from more than 40 years.

If confirmed by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) – which does not recognise the previous Sicilian high from 1999 of 48.5ºC – it will see the record set in Eleusis, Greece in 1977 finally tumble.

The blistering heat in the island off southern Italy follows weeks of wildfires and devastation in the region.

The unusually intense blazes – which experts say will only become worse and more frequent as the climate heats up – have laid waste to parts of Greece, Turkey and other neighbouring countries.

Italian firefighters said earlier on Wednesday that they had recorded 300 interventions in the past 12 hours, while a 77-year-old man died from burns sustained while trying to shelter his livestock in the countryside near Reggio Calabria.

Southern Europe has been scorched by wildfires this summer – with Italy also being hit hard (Picture: AP)

Fires have been raging around the Sicilian capital Palermo (Picture: AFP)

Italy’s new provisional high will beat a record that has stood for more than 40 years if confirmed (Picture: AP)

The country is currently in the grips of an anticyclone dubbed ‘Lucifer’, which is forecast to push weekend temperatures up to 40ºC in the central regions of Tuscany and Lazio, which includes Rome.

A spokesman for Italy’s national meteorological service said Wednesday’s temperature in Sicily still had to be validated, while the WMO did not respond to requests for comment.

In a tweet, the UK’s Met Office wrote: ‘Today has provisionally seen the highest temperature ever recorded in Italy.

‘SIAS have confirmed that Siracusa in Sicily reached 48.8ºC earlier this afternoon and if verified by WMO, it will become a new European temperature record.’

Elsewhere in southern Italy, the anticyclone was forecast to send the mercury rising to 39-42ºC before sweeping northwards.

A severe #heatwave continues to affect much of the Mediterranean and north Africa ðŸ“ˆ

Record challenging #temperatures are likely in the coming days with the peak of the #heat shifting towards Iberia by the end of the week âš ï¸ pic.twitter.com/mHGLzTEpZl
— Met Office (@metoffice) August 11, 2021

Turkey, Greece and other countries in the region have also been battling wildfires (Picture: AP)

The heat has heightened fears of more fires, which have already blighted Sicily and the region of Calabria throughout the summer.

Many were caused by arson but fuelled by warm winds and bone dry vegetation.

Elsewhere in Calabria, fires are now threatening the Aspromonte mountain range, which UNESCO has designated an area of international geological significance.

Dante Caserta, WWF Italy’s deputy head, pleaded for air support and other resources to battle the fires, warning ‘or it will be too late, and we will lose forever a priceless heritage’.

Crops, homes and industrial buildings have also been destroyed by fires near the Sicilian capital Palermo in the Madonie mountain range, where many animals are also feared to have died.

Sicily’s governor, Nello Musumeci, called for a state of emergency to be declared for the mountains, while Agriculture Minister Stefano Patuanelli met local mayors around Palermo on Wednesday.

He said: ‘The fires are an emergency that need immediate responses, first and foremost with the relief that must be given to those who have lost everything.’

In Sardinia, 13 fires recorded on Tuesday after more than 50,000 acres acres of land burned last month in the west of the island, during the worst fires seen in decades.

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