Zoe Ball finally reveals truth behind mystery ‘boyfriend’ after cryptic clues

The beloved presenter and radio host has broken her silence on her new boyfriend and addressed the ‘ carnage and chaos ‘ of juggling work and co-parenting with her ex Fatboy Slim

Zoe Ball has confirmed for the first time that she has a new boyfriend, after teasing with fans with talk of her mystery “lodger”. The former BBC Radio 2 presenter broke up with her last public boyfriend in 2023 and has kept the details of her love life very much under wraps in the years since.

But now the mum of two, who split from her ex-husband Norman Cook (known as Fatboy Slim) a decade ago after 18 years together, has set the record straight and admitted that the live-in man is indeed her boyfriend. In a new interview, 55-year-old Zoe also addressed her relationship with her musician ex, and explained how they juggle their work with co-parenting their son Woody, 25, and daughter Nelly, 16.

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“I love that he is still out there, playing to the masses”, she told The Sunday Times Style Magazine. “We’ve been really lucky with our relationship. When he has wanted to do things, I’ve been able to say, ‘ I’ll be here for that bit. ‘ Just for this next six months, I need to be here”.

Her last public relationship, with construction worker Michael Reed, ended three years ago, and she revealed on her and Jo Whiley’s Dig It podcast last year that there was a so-called mystery man living with her in her Sussex home. While he’s been referred to on various occasions as her “lodger”, her new interview states: “She confirms in a follow-up email is her new boyfriend, but prefers not to name”.

While she has never identified the mystery man on the podcast, she has dropped more than a few hints that she was enjoying a romantic relationship. Chatting all things love and romance, she said recently: “I’ve often had this thing, when I’ve been sort of dating someone, I love smelling their armpits”.

She continued, “I know it sounds weird, but if you love someone, you’ve got to love all their smells, not necessarily their bathroom smells. I draw a line at that. But there’s something about armpit smells that I think are really sexy.”

She went on to say her favourite thing to do, “especially if I’ve not seen my lover for a while, is when they’ve got their arms around you, I’m like sniffing in the armpits, and I get a right old look”.

Prior to dating Michael, Zoe, whose own parents separated when she was two, dated cameraman and technician Billy Yates, who tragically took his own life in May 2017 after a lengthy battle with depression.

Speaking afterwards to raise awareness about men’s mental health, Zoe said: “After he died, I was left with lots of questions. I think it is one in four of us in the UK who are living with mental illness. Those figures are huge, so most people you meet are going to have been touched by this subject.

Last year, she delivered a heartfelt tribute to him on her social media, marking the eight-year anniversary of his death. Alongside a photograph of Billy, she wrote:” 8 years forever in our hearts Billface #mateswithyates. “

On the subject of her loss, she told the Sunday Times this week that his death gave her a different perspective on life, sharing:” There is the grief-on-grief of other losses. It’s really made me look back and think, right, what’s important here? “

Zoe stepped down from her BBC Radio 2 gig late last year after announcing the news just a week earlier. She said a final goodbye to her listeners on December 20, before handing over the reins to Emma Willis.

The shock news came a year after she left the Radio 2 Breakfast show a year earlier after almost six years at the helm, before returning to take over the Saturday afternoon slot.

At the time of her breakfast departure, Zoe said she wanted to” focus on her family “as well as escape the” very early mornings, “citing her 4am alarm clock taking its toll on her.

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She said these had been compounded by a number of health and personal issues, including the death of her mother Julia in April 2024.

*If you’re struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch

Elizabeth Hurley, 60, poses topless on private island as fans hail ‘incredible’ figure

Austin Powers star, Liz Hurley, made sure all eyes were on her in her latest Instagram post as she posed topless in a bubble bath on a private island in the Maldives

Elizabeth Hurley, 60, has sent fans into a frenzy after posing topless in the bath. The Austin Powers star, who is dating Miley Cyrus’ dad, Billy Ray, 64, made sure all eyes were on her in her latest Instagram snap as she washed her hair, surrounded by bubbles – and rose petals – on a private island in the Maldives.

Telling her followers, who were stunned by the ‘ incredible ‘ shot, how “thrilled” she was, to be living it up in such luxury, Liz gushed: “Oh my… I adore the Maldives and was thrilled to be one of the first guests on the brand new, private island”.

The mum-of-one, who is in the Maldives with Billy Ray and her son, Damian, added: “We landed by seaplane straight to our villa’s own jetty – thank you – and were spoilt rotten by the brilliant staff. What a perfect way to kick off 2026”.

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Liz also shared a snap of herself on the beach in a leopard print bikini, holding a coconut, as well as one of her in the palatial villa, sporting a multi-coloured beach robe and dazzling jewellery.

Fans loved the sizzling shots, with many flocking to Instagram, commenting on how good she looks.

Praising Liz, who has revealed she “never snacks”, for her age-defying figure, one replied: “OMG! You look incredible”! Meanwhile, another gushed: “You are an inspiration! What is your secret”? !

The actress and model, who has been the face of Estee Lauder for years, recently opened up about her fitness and beauty regime, admitting that she applies moisturiser on her skin up to six times a day.

Speaking to Elle magazine, she also said she never snacks and starts the day off with a large glass of warm water.

Admitting the beverage is not for the faint-hearted, she explained: “It tastes fairly disgusting. But it’s fantastic for your digestive system”.

Another reason Liz glows with vitality is that she is never without a bottle of water in her bag, car or on her bedside table. Not only does it improve skin tone and eliminate toxins that tend to dull the complexion, but she says it staves off hunger pangs. “Swig whenever you start to dream about toast and Marmite”, she advises.

Her perky posts from the Maldives come after she celebrated Christmas with Billy Ray and also rang in the new year with the Country crooner.

The curious couple showed no signs of achy breaky hearts during the holidays as they marked their first festive season together, with Liz wowing in a white bikini and fur coat for her James Bond-themed New Year’s Eve party.

Liz and Billy Ray went public with their relationship last April, shocking fans when they shared a PDA-packed photo together at Easter.

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The pair met when they starred in the 2022 holiday film, Christmas in Paradise, which also starred Frasier’s Kelsey Grammer.

Coronation Street’s Tanisha Gorey reveals engagement in emotional post

Tanisha Gorey, the actress from Coronation Street, revealed to fans that Lucas Whelan is her boyfriend in an Instagram photo.

Coronation Street actress Tanisha Gorey has revealed that she is engaged to her boyfriend, Lucas Whelan. Taking to Instagram, Tanisha, who was left emotional after Lucas popped the question during their romantic holiday, shared a picture of her diamond ring on social media.

Since 2009, the actress has played Asha Alahan. After Lucas surprised her with the proposal, the 24-year-old star admitted to “still crying” by showing off her diamond sparkler. Additionally, Tanisha showed off a pink and white cake with a message that read “just engaged” and it appears Lucas had everything prepared.

Giving fans more of an insight into her special moment, she showed that Lucas had placed red and silver balloons in their hotel room, with one spelling out “I love you.” The ITV star captioned the post saying: “Brb still crying,” which was accompanied by a tear, ring and heart emoji.

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Her Weatherfield co-stars and friends eluded the comment section as soon as she posted it. Congratulations to you both, Nicky Myers, who plays DS Lisa Swain in the ITV soap. What fantastic news, xxxx.

Andy Whyment also said: “Ah, amazing, congratulations to you both.” Former Corrie star and Strictly Come Dancing winner Ellie Leach added: “Eeeeekkkk congratulations.”

Whattt?????? was written by Meanwhil and Cait Fitton. I’m so happy for you both, Omggggg! Congratulations to Lucas and you! Tanisha has had to contend with a number of heavy-duty storylines since she first appeared on the cobbles.

Her most recent attempt was in October when her character attempted suicide. Asha attempted to overdose on the pills unknowingly, but was fortunately discovered in the street and taken to the hospital where she recovered.

Asha was seen at the time saying, “I just remember that I just started spiraling after Mason passed away, and then Craig passed away. I started to feel incredibly hollow out and like a ghost. I am aware of how ridiculous it sounds.

She continued to make the same claim to her father, “I tried, Dad, I really tried to concentrate on the good,” but it was unsuccessful. And I only wanted it to end, but I had no idea how. “No, accidents happen, people make mistakes,” a emotional Dev responded.

Asha jumped in to tell her dad that her attempt was not an accident before Dev could proceed. She wanted to end her life, in fact. She continued, “Dad, it wasn’t an accident.” I apologize so much. I am aware of the fact that I should not have taken those pills. I’m happy that it didn’t work, and I’m happy to be here.

Dev broke down in tears as he confided to his wife Bernie in a heartbreaking manner that the show’s legions of fans witnessed. As he fell apart, he said, “The drugs she’s taken… they think they might have caused some damage.” I almost lost her, didn’t I? Without even seeing it, I nearly lost my little girl. I apologize. I apologize so much.

Tanisha and her on-screen twin Adam Hussain are in the film together. Additionally, the pair recently posed for photos over the weekend at the Soap Awards. The film’s stars were nominated for the Best Family award along with their on-screen father.

Adam and Tanisha posed alongside their partners, both appreciating the award they did not receive. Tanisha looked stunning in her thigh-high split dress in one snap that she shared on Instagram.

Lucas was seen sporting a sophisticated blue suit in the meantime. Date night was the tagline for the post from Tanisha. “And her fans and co-stars quickly emailed her congratulations on how good they both looked together.

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Gregg Wallace ‘considering new life’ away from UK after MasterChef scandal

After being fired by the program, former MasterChef star Gregg Wallace is considering turning his back on the UK and beginning a new life with his family in Italy.

Gregg Wallace is considering quitting the UK following his MasterChef shame. The greengrocer-turned-presenter is looking at moving to Italy where wife Anne-Marie and her family are from, say sources close to the star.

It comes as his TV career lies in tatters after being sacked from the popular BBC1 show with no prospect of any future on-screen roles. However, he believes he can sustain a career with his new online ventures, which enable him to live anywhere in the world.

He is currently offering online health coaching and purchasing personalised videos through Cameo for customers. The 61-year-old currently resides in Kent with his autistic son Sid, his mother-in-law Rina, and Anna.

Wallace frequently travels to Italy, calling it “very special.” With his C5 show Big Weekends with Gregg Wallace, he has previously shot there, and he and his younger wife have just released an Italian cookbook.

“I adore traveling to Italy. One fantastic restaurant serves the entire nation. I adore it because of its simplicity and beauty, and because of its history in the middle and style in the north. In a previous interview, he stated, “I’m going to retire there.”

Wallace described how his wife frequently persuaded him to leave the UK and relocate to Italy when we first met him in 2023. When his anxiety was so high, he told how she wanted him to leave Britain while talking to our podcast Men in Mind about his mental health. She used to remark, “Is this worth it?” to him.

Wallace was sacked from the BBC after a report upheld more than 40 allegations about his conduct, including one of unwelcome physical contact and three of being in a state of undress.

We broke this story earlier this month, and Wallace now faces legal action against the Beeb because he claims his attorneys believe he has been the victim of “terrible injustice.” Wallace once said, “There is a legal team around me right now, and I can’t say too much.” They have said, “This is a terrible injustice,” and they have left.

They are now saying, “Here’s an investigation that says you’re not groping, you’re definitely not flashing, you’re not sexually harassing, you’re not bullying anybody,” he added. So why do you have this position, and who is in charge of it?

Since then, he has filed a High Court claim against the BBC for allegedly abusing him and harassing him. According to a free and impartial investigation conducted by Lewis Silkin, 45 of the 83 allegations made against him were confirmed.

Additionally, there were legitimate complaints about offensive language and humor. Co-host John Torode was also fired from the program for allegedly using a racist term, which he denies.

Wallace might pursue a second lawsuit related to his sacking, which will focus on his autism diagnosis, which he was first diagnosed with at the beginning of last year. Gregg claimed in an online interview that he had fallen for the intense atmosphere in TV studios and was “tripping up.”

He claimed that his job was to be “energized and enthusiastic,” and that the studio’s directors would whip you up when we went into the studio first thing in the morning.

“They leave, and I do it again,” you say. Give it some vigor. Continue reading. You’re entering the quarterfinals. It’s big, really. And they would “hype” you. Walsh previously apologized online, saying that he had never intended to hurt or humiliate anyone in the wake of the scandal. He also said he was “deeply sorry for any distress caused.”

However, the shamed star has faced criticism from charities for defending his autism claim that it could harm the autistic community. One person said, “Good behavior is not a free pass.”

The BBC has previously stated that it won’t comment on ongoing legal proceedings.

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X Factor stars who look very different now after shooting to fame on iconic show

Some of the contestants on X Factor became overnight stars after performing for millions of viewers and judges, including Louis Walsh and Simon Cowell, who now appear very different.

Some members of the X Factor gang appear on the recognizable ITV show for the first time since they left. The legendary talent series, which was developed by media mogul Simon Cowell, produced numerous stars including Leona Lewis and One Direction.

Other contestants rose to fame on the program, but not always because of their singing. So, let’s take a look at some of the famous faces who have had their careers exposed to judges, including Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh, Dannii Minogue, Rita Ora, Cheryl Tweedy, Rita Ora, Dannii Minogue, and Simon.

Adeel Akhtar ‘shocked’ after being questioned by US police about terrorism

Adeel Akhtar, one of the Lions legends, has shared that he was once question by American police after arriving in New York about having connections to terrorist organizations.

When he was questioned about terrorism, actor Adeel Akhtar said he was shocked. When he traveled to New York for an audition, the Four Lions star was asked if he had any connections to any terrorist organizations.

The actor, 45, who played Rob Singham in The Night Manager’s first season, had his passport taken from him and had several hours of questioning conducted at John F Kennedy International Airport in 2002.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, Adeel said: “Just before I got on the plane, some security people took my passport off me and said that I’d get it back once I arrived at JFK.

“It sort of kind of kind of taxied off into a sort of secluded part of the runway after we landed at JFK, and I then notice this convoy of cars passing through.”

These people came on the plane, and they said they would handcuff me for their own protection, and then they checked me in the airport, and then questioned me, which was a kind of scary thing because that lasted a little longer than it seemed appropriate to do. “…

He continued, “I mean, talking for four or five hours, not solid questioning, but a lot of waiting,” and that was while Guantanamo and other similar situations were taking place.

So I was aware of what they were trying to say, and I, too, kind of held my nerve and sat down and sat down, and then walked away. The actor continued with the audition after going on to say that he was shocked by what he had experienced.

Following the incident, he continued, stating that his father had unsuccessfully attempted to sue the FBI. Akhtar continued, “My dad has a sort of blind faith in the idea of doing good and the rule of law, and I saw him in an office. I just saw this really proud man not believe what he believed in for years and years.”

“I just saw him slightly beaten at that point because his expression of love was to protect me and do the right thing, and he was unable to sort of do either,” he said.

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Akhtar also appeared in the crime drama Sherwood and the BBC television series Murdered By My Father, both of which earned him Bafta awards.

If cast away to a desert island, Akhtar would bring with him the eight tracks, book, and expensive item. On Sunday, January 18 at 10 a.m. on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs. It will also be accessible via BBC Sounds.