Britney Spears has returned to Instagram after she sparked concerns with a string of bizarre posts following ex-husband Kevin Federline’s explosive memoir being published
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Britney Spears has returned to Instagram after a brief break
Britney Spears has made her return to Instagram after she deleted her account following a string of bizarre posts. The singer shut down her account just four days before and has now made her comeback sharing an image of herself in lacy lingerie.
Britney, 43, posted a screenshot of a video of herself in the saucy set, standing in front of a wardrobe with her trademark tousled blonde hair worn in a messy half up half down look. She also wore black mid-calf boots in the image.
Captioning the post she shared, “So much has happened this year, it’s crazy … I try to live within my means and the book, ‘Draw the Circle’ is an incredible perspective. Get your ballerina, circle, and own your boundaries. It’s incredibly strict and somewhat of a form of prayer but with so many endless possibilities in life, it’s important to do you and keep it simple.”
She then cryptically concluded, “I know there is a confusing side too. The devil is in the details but we can get to that later.” She then added shocked, crying laughing, and nose blowing emojis to the caption.
Her return to the platform comes after she sparked concerns following a series of bizarre posts on the app, as well as having a public argument with ex-husband Kevin Federline, 47. Relatives are reportedly growing increasingly worried about her recent online activity.
In recent weeks, she posted videos showing herself dancing with visible bruising on her arms. She has also shared mysterious messages about the two sons she shares with Kevin, Preston, 20, and Jayden James, 19.
Last month, she uploaded footage discussing a “horrible” leg injury. She detailed how she had “fell down the stairs” and that her leg “snaps out now and then”. At the time, she wrote: “Not sure if it’s broken but for now it’s snapped in! ! ! Thank u god.”
In another troubling update recently, she stated she had experienced “brain damage”. Her fallout with Kevin came after he published his memoir, You Though You Knew.
In the book Kevin alleged Britney once “punched” Sean in the face. He further claimed that on different occasions, their sons witnessed her in their bedroom doorway “clutching a knife”.
Kevin and Britney were married between 2004 and 2007.
Kevin was eventually awarded full custody of their two sons. In his memoir, he stated that Britney’s 13-year conservatorship, which concluded in 2021, “brought stability when it was desperately needed”. He further asserted that since its termination it has become “impossible to pretend everything’s OK”.
He also warned, “Something bad is going to happen if things don’t change, and my biggest fear is that our sons will be left holding the pieces.”
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Britney strongly disagreed with her former husband’s remarks and in social media posts before deleting her Instagram account, she labelled his behaviour as “gaslighting” her. She also expressed feeling “demoralised” by the troubled dynamic with their children.
Playing ice-queen editor Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada in London’s West End means many people are scared to approach Vanessa Williams but that’s not always a bad thing says the Desperate Housewives actress
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Vanessa Williams before switching on the Oxford Street Christmas lights.(Image: Tim Merry/Staff Photographer)
“Many people are scared to approach me,” she laughs. “It’s actually quite good. It cuts out 50% of the people who would have! But once they realise who I actually am, that’s over.”
Currently playing ice-queen editor Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada in the West End to rave reviews, before that, from 2006 to 2010, she perfected her withering glare as Wilhelmina Slater in Ugly Betty – another fashion boss who ran her glossy empire with a raised brow and an iron fist. So, it’s no wonder fans find her a little intimidating.
But, in real-life, she reckons women in power are no longer more ruthless than their male counterparts. “There are so many examples of women who are CEOs, governors, even presidents now,” she tells The Mirror. “Thank God those old stereotypes are disappearing. It’s incredible how much power and status women have achieved in the past 20 years.”
One woman who knows only too well about getting labelled is Vanessa’s close friend Hillary Clinton, once branded a “nasty woman” by Donald Trump, for her dogged drive and ambition.
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Hillary lives near Vanessa, 62, in her hometown of Chappaqua, New York, and they support each other’s careers. “She’s doing really well,” says Vanessa. “She hasn’t come to see the show yet, but her aide David has.”
New York born Vanessa is speaking before turning on the iconic Oxford Street Christmas lights in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity). The opposite to ice queen Miranda Priestly, Vanessa loves spreading festive cheer. She’s released two Christmas albums in the past and starred in the festive film, A Diva’s Christmas Carol, in 2000. “It is wonderful,” grins Vanessa. “This is my second year here for the holidays in London. I enjoy just the excitement of it, all the decorations of it all, and the tradition. I’m from New York, so we do Christmas big there. I would say it’s a little more quaint here.”
Her run at the Dominion Theatre has been extended until 18 April 2026 and she says: “I am doing eight shows a week at Devil Wears Prada, but in the past I’ve done many Christmas specials on television and stuff. So it’s a very familiar time, and it’s always one of my busiest times in terms of me doing concerts and stuff.” But with her family across the pond, it might be hard this year for them to visit in December. “I’ve got four kids and one grandson. So it depends on who is available as to if they want to fly in. And if not, well, we will get a holiday at the beginning of the year.”
The star, who has also enjoyed a glittering singing career, including her Grammy-nominated smash hit Save the Best to Last, shows no signs of slowing down in her sixties. There could even be a return to Desperate Housewives, the hit ABC drama created by Marc Cherry, that ran until 2012 and followed the scandalous lives of the glamorous women on a suburban American street called Wisteria Lane.
It starred Felicity Huffman as Lynette Scavo, Teri Hatcher as Susan Delfino, Marcia Cross as Bree Van de Kamp, Eva Longoria as Gabrielle Solis and, of course, Vanessa as Renee Perry. The series is reportedly set for a reboot, this time executive produced by Emmy Award-winning actress Kerry Washington. Vanessa, who joined the show in its later seasons as sophisticated party girl Renee Perry, says she still thinks positively about her time on Wisteria Lane.
“I do have fond memories of the show,” she says. “Mark Cherry, who was the creator and writer, just wrote a terrific role for me as Renee Perry. She gets all the laughs. She gets a chance to be free and zany, which I absolutely love to play. I have not heard any whisperings of us old girls coming back to Wisteria Lane, but if I got a call, it actually depends on who the team was. Mark conceived it and wrote it and wrote specifically for me and had that vision. So I would be just concerned about who the team was.”
When Desperate Housewives first aired in 2004, it became a worldwide phenomenon, known as much for its glossy suburban secrets as for the real-life drama rumoured to swirl around its leading ladies, with outlets often reporting on set rifts. But Vanessa is still close to Susan Delfino actress Teri Hatcher. “I see Teri,” she says. “I’ve been over here for almost a year and a half now. It’s been maybe two years. I saw her for her birthday. Her daughter Emerson came through the summertime. I think Teri will probably come in the next few months.”
While old friends remain close, Vanessa’s focus these days is firmly on her work. Married three times, first to music manager Ramon Hervey II in 1987, then to NBA player Rick Fox in 1999, her 2015 marriage to Jim Skrip came to a quiet end back in 2021. “I don’t know any Christmas romance that will happen anytime soon,” she admits. “But you know, I am at a stage now where I’ve got lots of freedom and I’m happy, you know, doing what I do.”
Mum to Melanie, 38, Jillian, 35, Devin, 32, and Sasha, 25, as well as grandmother to three-year-old Sunny, the star is also taking on a deeply personal new project about the scandal that changed her life. Raised by two music teachers, then studying for a music theatre degree, Vanessa first cut her teeth in showbiz via beauty pageantry – going on to be crowned as the first Black Miss America in 1983, aged 20.
Her historic reign was cut short the following year when unauthorized nude photographs were published without her consent in Penthouse magazine. She was forced to resign her crown and the controversy made global headlines, leading to an onslaught of racist and sexist abuse, including death threats. Vanessa has previously described the “pressure, shame, judgment” she had to cope with. She also lost acting jobs and faced ridicule on a vast scale.
But she didn’t let any of it stop her from making her mark on the world, and she is now making a documentary about what happened. “I’m working on a documentary, and that’s fascinating and exciting, but also exhausting,” she says. “Trying to get all the details right and tell the story, because it’s been 42 years, it’s a while. But in perspective, again, we just talked about how modern-day society receives and respects women and all the avenues that we have to achieve. You know, 40 years ago, it was a much different world. So that’s what I will be illustrating when I talk about my side of the story.”
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A career in the spotlight means she has sage advice for her daughters, two of whom have followed her into the music industry. “I’ve got two daughters that are singers, so they understand the rejection, the sacrifice, but also the elation you get when you get a chance to create,” she explains.
“So the advice is to keep doing what makes you excited, what you’re good at, and don’t be afraid to take any opportunity. As for what I do next, you’ll have to wait and see.” Knowing Vanessa’s remarkable ability to turn setbacks into comebacks and have smash hits across disciplines and genres, whatever she does, she’ll no doubt, ‘Save the Best to Last.’
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The high street fashion giant is stocking a blazer that resembles a designer style
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Primark’s blazer looks similar to a pricier brand (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
Primark is selling a ‘statement’ blazer that resembles a much pricier alternative. With a reputation for stocking budget-friendly fashion and accessories, the retailer is a favourite with many high street shoppers. One of its latest styles could also impress designer fans.
Primark is stocking a £36 chocolate brown blazer that looks similar to a £695 designer brand. The retailer’s Paula Echevarría Faux Suede Blazer could be compared to Róhe’s Suede Blazer. However, there’s a distinct price difference, as the Róhe blazer is currently listed for £695 on Mytheresa.
Shoppers should note that the blazers are not identical, with the fabric and construction of the styles offering key differences. The designer brand uses 100% goat leather, while the high street brand uses polyester for its faux suede look.
However, there are visual similarities between the blazers, which are both offered in chocolate brown colour, drawing on one of this year’s most popular colour trends. Both blazers also opt for patch pockets, notched lapels, and a double-button fastening. As such, Primark’s blazer could be tempting for shoppers looking for a similar style at a more affordable price point.
For shoppers interested in the Primark style, the blazer is available to click and collect, or customers can check stock availability at their local store on the brand’s website. The blazer is typically available in sizes XS to XL, although not all sizes are currently in stock online.
The full product description states: “Step up your smart-casual style with this Paula Echevarría Faux Suede Blazer. Designed in a deep chocolate brown shade, it’s made from soft faux suede with a smooth, brushed texture for a refined finish.
“The relaxed fit and wide notched lapels give it a timeless look, while the two-button closure adds a classic touch. Large patch pockets with rounded edges bring a stylish, practical detail and the fully lined interior ensures a clean, comfortable fit. Perfect for adding a polished twist to everyday outfits or dressing up for special occasions.”
For shoppers interested in the Róhe style, the blazer is available on Mytheresa’s website. It’s usually offered in sizes 32-44, although not all sizes are currently in stock online.
The full product description states: “Not a simple blazer, this design from Róhe is crafted from buttery soft suede. The single-breasted silhouette is enhanced by the cinched waist and complete with elegant notch lapels.”
Elsewhere, blazer shoppers looing for an alternative might prefer Next’s £55 Chocolate Brown Twill Melange Relaxed Blazer. While the blazer is offered in chocolate brown with notched lapels, the pockets differ from those of the Primark and Róhe styles to present a distinct look.
Benedict Cumberbatch has risen to fame over the years as he has taken on plenty of iconic roles such as Sherlock Holmes, Dr Strange and Smaug
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Benedict has a new film coming out(Image: Getty Images for BFI)
Benedict Cumberbatch has opened up about his secret “struggle” as he speaks about his family life. The star is best known for his acting work but is also open about the realities of being a dad.
The actor is dad to three sons – ages ten, eight and six – with his wife Sophie Hunter. Benedict’s latest project is starring in new film The Thing With Feathers where he plays a struggling dad.
Away from his usual big budget movies, the project is an independent film. The movie follows a father and two sons as they struggle to cope with the sudden loss of their wife and mother.
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The trio are attempting to move on with their lives while dealing with grief which is depicted as a large crow. Benedict said he used his experience as a dad in order to play his new role.
However, this wasn’t without it’s difficulties as he said the job was a very emotional one. Speaking to The Times, Benedict explained that there were a lot of tears shed in the making of the film.
He said: “My costume was covered in tears. There were so many costume changes. It’s the unexpected things which make you cry, which is so true to grief.”
He added that as someone who boarded at all-boys school Harrow, he is feeling the impact of growing up without girls and women around him.
“I’m still struggling in ways I wouldn’t if I’d had sisters my age or been in a co-ed school. It’s b******t,” he said.
“Because boys and girls mature at different times, so they have to be focused on what? Results-based educational needs? Who gives a f*** what GCSEs and A-levels you get, unless it’s somehow important for your pupillage or whatever. Rant rant rant. But seriously.”
The Sherlock star also revealed that his emotions are now “paper thin” after becoming a father and that the film Barbie brought him to tears. He added that his sons think he’s more of a pushover than their mum.
Earlier this year, Benedict admitted that things ‘got nasty’ between him and his The Roses co-star Olivia Colman due to the toxic nature of their characters.
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He told Yahoo Entertainment: “There was one speed bump where it started to get a bit toxic, and I was like, ‘I might need to check in with you as a friend, because this is getting a bit nasty now.”
Match of the Day host Gabby Logan is set to take on a new role later this month and the presenter has claimed that it is a career-long ambition
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Gabby Logan has landed a new role(Image: Getty)
Gabby Logan has fulfilled a career-long dream by securing a fresh TV opportunity. The 52-year-old broadcaster has been working with the BBC since 2007.
Logan, daughter of iconic Welsh international footballer and manager Terry Yorath, was among three hosts selected to succeed departing Gary Lineker on Match of the Day this year. She divides presenting responsibilities with Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates.
The mum-of-two is wed to former Scotland rugby legend Kenny Logan and later this month she’ll be helming another programme she has long admired.
Ex-gymnast Logan is poised to present the BBC staple Have I Got News For You for the first time. This comedy quiz panel programme has been on air since 1990 and features participants responding to questions about the week’s most significant news events.
The Match of the Day host has previously appeared as a contestant on the programme but she will be commanding an episode broadcasting on November 21. She remarked: “I am thrilled to be hosting HIGNFY as it’s literally been a 20-year career goal.
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“I have watched and admired a stream of brilliant guest presenters add something unique and personal to the role. I was once a guest on Ian’s team but I am looking forward to trying to keep him and Paul in line this time.
“The biggest challenge will be remembering I’m there to do a job and not just sitting back and admiring their quick-fire wit and political observations.”
Logan has already reached a career milestone this year by presenting Match of the Day for the first time. After she fronted her debut programme in August she turned to social media with a candid confession.
“So last week I have to admit I was a little bit too nervous to take any pictures of my first MoTD of the season,” the presenter wrote on Instagram in the summer.
Logan had been sharing the screen with former Premier League stars Troy Deeney and Rob Green. She added: “I didn’t realise I was nervous until I literally felt my heart beating out of my shirt before my opening link.
“Week 2 and the nerves settled into a regular pre show (optimal) level. Heart rate normal. It’s a programme I grew up with so it’s always going to feel a bit surreal when that music plays.”
She credits her legendary father, who earned 59 caps for Wales, for her childhood connection with the programme. Logan stated: “When my dad was playing, it was the only way you could watch football on TV because there were very few live matches.
“That music would play every Saturday night because he would come home from work – playing in a match – and watch his match on Match of the Day. As a very little girl, hearing that music meant I was staying up late on a Saturday night.”
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Katy Yeandle says it is important because ‘nobody knows’
Neil Shaw Assistant Editor (Money and Lifestyle)
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Joseph died on December 27, 2021
The mother of a three-year-old boy who died after being diagnosed with a rare cancer has thanked Alan Carr for raising awareness after he highlighted the disease with his Celebrity Traitors win. Carr’s £87,500 winnings from his role as a “traitor” on the hit BBC spin-off show was earmarked for children’s cancer charity Neuroblastoma UK.
Katy Yeandle, whose son Joseph died on December 27 2021 after being diagnosed with stage four neuroblastoma eight months earlier, said people are now talking about the disease because of Carr. Ms Yeandle told BBC Breakfast: “It was amazing because nobody knows about neuroblastoma cancer. When Joseph was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, we didn’t know what it was.
“And now people are starting to talk about it because of Alan Carr, because of his amazing donation to the charity.” Asked if she had a message for Carr, Ms Yeandle added: “Thank you, thank you for raising that awareness because one thing that I found during this whole childhood cancer journey is that childhood cancer isn’t talked about enough.”
She and her sister Emma Rees set up charity Joseph’s Smile which runs the Kids Get Cancer Too campaign to unite families, charities and supporters to raise awareness, funding and visibility for children and young people affected by cancer. Ms Rees said: “Alan has started that conversation and alongside Neuroblastoma UK, we really hope that we can keep that conversation going.”
Neuroblastoma UK trustee Tori Oldridge, 49, said that the money will make a “huge impact”. When asked about the comedian’s victory, she said: “I didn’t think he was going to win. It was really exciting. Last night, we were on the edge of our seats. We were glued to the screen. We all felt the emotion he was feeling. He did so, so well.”
The charity said the 49-year-old had been its “faithful patron” for nine years, as it thanked him in a post on social media. After his win, Alan Carr said: “It’s an absolute privilege to be able to support Neuroblastoma UK, whether it’s raising awareness or funds. I’m so pleased I can use my platform to show how amazing this charity is.”
Neuroblastoma UK’s head of fundraising and communications Emily Hood said: “As a small charity with a big mission to find better treatments and ultimately a cure for every child facing neuroblastoma, moments like this are transformational. For many years, we’ve known Alan to be generous, warm, empathetic and unfailingly kind, and we’re delighted that the nation shares that view.”
During the final episode, Carr burst into tears as he revealed to the remaining faithfuls, comedian Nick Mohammed and historian David Olusoga, that he was a traitor. He later told visual podcast Uncloaked: “The charity is so close to my heart that it all became a bit too much. Hopefully when people see how upset I was they won’t feel so bad that I killed all those national treasures.
Alan Carr wins The Celebrity Traitors
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“I told one person at the charity and they started crying, so that gives you some idea of how important this money will be to them. Neuroblastoma is such a cruel disease, and this money will literally save lives. It’s a charity and disease that no-one has really heard of so with the viewing figures being what they are, it’s going to be so good for the charity.”
Carr became a patron of Neuroblastoma UK, which was founded as The Neuroblastoma Society in 1982, after meeting parents of children affected by the disease. Neuroblastoma is a rare cancer that develops in early nerve cells and is most common in children under five.
