Category Entertainment News

Joan Branson, the wife of British billionaire Richard Branson, has died at age 80 — and the founder of Virgin Atlantic airline called the woman his “guiding light,]his] world”

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Sir Richard Branson fell for wife Joan “almost from the moment” he saw her, a resurfaced blog post says.

Joan has died aged 80, leaving the founder of Virgin Atlantic airline heartbroken following their 50-year relationship. Excerpts from blogs and news articles were yesterday widely read online in the wake of the tragedy, and many paint an idyllic picture of the couple’s marriage.

Sir Richard and Joan met 1976 and he became determined to woo her at the “bric-a-brac shop” where she worked in Westbourne Grove, west London. The businessman’s relentless persistence paid off and the couple soon began their long relationship.

In a blog post in 2020, Sir Richard said: “I often make up my mind about someone within 30 seconds of meeting them, and I fell for Joan almost from the moment I saw her”. He visited the shop frequently to see Joan — and ended up with a collection of trinkets, including a “Now, that’s what I call music” sign which would later inspire Virgin’s best-selling compilation records.

READ MORE: Inside Richard Branson’s 50-year relationship with ‘love of his life’ as he issues tributeREAD MORE: Richard Branson’s heartbreaking final picture with Joan days before tragic death

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The couple married in 1989 and share two children, Holly and Sam. Writing on social media on Tuesday evening, Sir Richard said his wife was his “best friend” and “guiding light”.

The 75-year-old star wrote: “Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away. She was the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for. She was my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world. Love you forever, Joan x.”

Joan, born in Glasgow, was daughter of a ship carpenter and one of six siblings. The eldest of three, Sir Richard, knew he could win Joan’s heart so quickly that he would frequently visit her store and purchase “countless objects” just to talk to her. Although the couple began dating shortly afterward, the businessman’s businessman only proposed on Necker Island for another 13 years before the couple wed.

He wrote in a blog in 2015 that “Joan was unlike any other women I had ever met. She was blonde-haired, down-earth, Scottish beauty who didn’t suffer fools.” Before we started courting, I had to persistently hang around the store and purchase numerous items to win her heart.

Kelly Osbourne posted a picture of her mother Sharon watching Jack compete in the I’m A Celebrity camp on social media, which she hardly could have watched.

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Sharon Osbourne looked concerned by son Jack’s actions on I’m A Celebrity. The reality TV star was a late signing for the hit ITV show but has been impressing viewers with his actions – and campmates with his cooking.

His mother appeared apprehensive, but it was his first solo Bushtucker Trial. His lack of breathing in the underwater activity made her appear to be concerned as she sat next to his sister Kelly to watch the most recent events.

With the camera facing towards them, Kelly said: “Watching I’m A Celebrity and they cut to commercials at the most poignant bit. I was holding my breath, and I realised half way through the first commercial I was still holding my breath.

READ MORE: Denise Welch branded ‘iconic’ by Loose Women co-star after huge career moveREAD MORE: I’m A Celeb ‘feud erupts between two huge stars and threatens All Stars final’

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He’s in a chamber of water, and he only has two minutes, I mean come on. With lobsters and toads, Sharon then says, “Come on, we need to know what’s happening,” Kelly continued.

She then applauded her brother’s 26-second breathless performance on the first chamber. As she gasped, Sharon also looked shocked at his efforts, but Kelly was clearly proud of him.

As the pair’s tense music played in the background, the pair in chamber three gave out more gasps. She was once more surprised at how long her brother could stay underwater as Kelly yelled out “Yes Jackie,” with a big grin.

However, the pair appeared to be more in fear when they arrived in the following chamber. Kelly turned the camera over to her mother, who was aiming for the final stars while keeping her head in her hands.

Mrs. O trembled as the eels rushed into his chamber, unable to concentrate on what was happening. And his mother looked concerned for her son as he approached the air.

But as he completed the task with a flawless sweep of 12 stars, she struck the air. And Kelly couldn’t help but say yes, you did because Jack said he “absolutely smashed it.”

She also reacted positively to Aitch’s new moniker, “J-Aquaman,” for her brother. Later, she revealed his feat to her followers who weren’t in England. She continued, “I’m so proud of him,” saying that she thought she was nervous for the task more than he was.

She gushed, “He did f***ing amazing.” When her brother arrives home from the show, Aitch’s title will also remain, according to her.

Every night at 9 p.m., ITV1 and ITVX airs I’m A Celebrity 2025.

Denise Welch, a panelist for Loose Women, has won the support of her well-known friends after being hailed as “insider” for her most recent career move ahead of the holiday season.

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Denise Welch’s latest career move has been branded “iconic”. The Loose Women panellist’s latest release has been well received by her co-stars – but some online users have been a lot less kind with their words.

The Geordie star, 67, has released a hyperpop Christmas anthem titled Slayyy Bells. It marks Celebrations’ first-ever festive track, which they hope can rival the likes of Kylie’s latest single.

Denise initially teased the new track on Friday. And her social media has been filled with support from her celeb pals. Among those giving her the thumbs up was Tanya Bardsley, who labelled the track “brilliant”. GK Barry said: “Iconic song and iconic outfit.”

READ MORE: Jessie J reveals bond with Kate Middleton amid heartbreaking cancer battleREAD MORE: Dwayne Johnson’s heartfelt message to Davina McCall amid cancer scare

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Michael Marouli of Drag Race UK praised Denise’s “Iconic behavior,” while Andrea McLean of Loose Woman added, “Omg. You are becoming more and more fabulous every day. The likes of GK Barry and Amber Gill, who hit the like button on the uploads, also had a lot of love.

She has now stated to her fans, “You might have noticed that I’m currently changing things up. Well, @ukcelebrations did, and they asked me to give a recognizable holiday song a little bit of my hip, cool vibe. Doing your way is the theme of Slayyy Bells.

Don’t want Turkey, please? Do not possess it. Do you prefer to dress up? Keep your pajamas on. However, I want to say that you should have lots and lots of fun, regardless of how you spend your vacations. Slayy Bells is available! !

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However, while those close to her shared their appreciation, some users weren’t as complimentary. Resharing her post, one Instagram user said: “Stop this world. I want to get off.”

And some of the comments on her video upload also had similar sentiments. Another follower yelled, “So many questions!” And yet another cruelly added, “God bless the deaf.” However, Denise made a joke that “Is it number one yet?” A fan “Should be” said.

Denise, who frequently speaks out on air, revealed last week details of a furious exchange she had with a director who made disparaging remarks about her. Denise acknowledged that the cast and crew were shocked by her reaction on the most recent episode of ITV’s Loose Women Just Between Us podcast because she is not well known as a diva.

So I was on set for a show about 30 years ago, and we had practiced for the cameras about 20 times, Denise said to her pal. A challenging shot was made.

Something had to come out of the sugar glass, they said. I’ll rehearse until the cows arrive, and then they said, “Okay, turn over.”

She continued, “Oh, hold on a minute,” and then she just said, “And I just said that.” Please excuse me. Could the actors only undergo one rehearsal? The director responded, “It’s okay. Don’t worry about that, my pretty little head. We won’t make you look bad.

And she acknowledged that she was irritated by this statement. She revealed how angry she was when he apologized and stormed off in her dressing room.

As he anxiously awaits his test results, former cage fighter Alex Reid revealed he had been in 300 fights and had been “hit more times than I can count.”

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Alex Reid has revealed he was rushed to hospital with a suspected bleed on the brain after walking around like he was ‘punch drunk’ in the street.

The 50-year-old cage-fighting ex of Katie Price took to Instagram to give a worrying health update on Tuesday. Issuing a warning to younger fighters – after sharing he had been in 300 fights during his career and “been hit more times than I can count” – he shared a photo of himself hooked up to a machine.

He continued, “I’ve been in hospital since 9am this morning.” I’ve already had a CT scan, and I’m currently awaiting an MRI to determine whether my brain’s posterior area is bleeding.

READ MORE: Katie Price’s boyfriend JJ ‘worried she’s running herself into the ground’

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He continued, “I honestly can’t believe how much I’ve been walking lately because people assume I’m drunk when I’m out.” I’m not.

It’s a terrible feeling to not understand why my body is moving this fast these days. The suffering, the imbalance, and the uncertainty… Everything has turned out to be very difficult to live with.

This is not a negative post about combat sports, fighting, or martial arts. I adore this activity. My life is here. However, I’ve been hit more times than I can count, and I’ve had cauliflower ears to support it, in over 300 fights.

“I want young athletes who are starting out in the sport to start training smarter. Wear headgear, please. Take good care of yourself. Think beyond the immediate immediate impact of the next fight.

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Alex’s father tragically passed away at the age of 77 after battling a brain tumor, raising concerns that it might be hereditary. He continued, “Thank God the scans have not revealed any tumors.”

He claimed that he was now waiting for his test results and that seeing his father, who had a brain tumor, had just passed away.

We’re just waiting to see if my walking and balance has been harmed or if there has been any brain damage.

“I’m being truthful, raising awareness, and letting people know what really happens behind closed doors,” I say. Your health is everything, despite the incredible combat sports. When the results are released, I’ll keep everyone informed. Thank you to everyone who messaged and backed me today.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive brain condition that was previously referred to as “punch-drunk syndrome,” can result from repeated head impacts from physical wields.

It can result from years of repeated head injuries or concussions. Its initial symptoms include anxiety, aggression, erratic behavior, and depression, which can eventually lead to confusion, memory loss, confusion, and irritability. This can lead to dementia in the more advanced stages.

READ MORE: ‘I tested Baileys, Coole Swan and Aldi’s Irish Cream and one is better by miles’

Jessie J, the singer, shared her experiences juggling motherhood and recovery, as well as meeting Princess of Wales Kate Middleton.

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Jessie J has discussed her experiences with breast cancer and what lessons the illness have taught her about life.

The Price Tag singer and mum-of-one, 37, had surgery in the summer and is waiting for a second round. The star also revealed her delight at meeting the Princess of Wales, who was treated for cancer last year, at the Royal Variety Performance. Speaking about her time with Kate, 43, last week she said: “I hugged the princess!”

While Jessie waits for a second operation later this year, she has delayed her No Secrets UK and European tour until 2026. She remarked about her diagnosis, “I’m just grateful for the lessons and, honestly, grateful for the connectivity that has given me with so many cancer patients.”

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“I wouldn’t have had the lovely conversations I have had. Additionally, I’ve grown up better as a parent and a better person. I’ve never given a damn about the little things. She continued, “Some things that used to stress me out no longer do because you just need to sit the f*** down when life turns into something you feel like you can’t control.”

Jessie found a lump in her breast in March and had a mastectomy. She said: “I had my surgery and took very little time off.” Describing it as a “weird time”, she said: “When I had cancer and nobody knew… I wanted to make all these jokes. Now I have one post-baby boob and one orange under a bedsheet.

It’s still funny, but it’s not. However, it’s also quite funny. But I’m actually appreciative that I made it through. And I almost have to turn around, and I still have a little work to do. However, we all will experience or have experienced a very difficult situation that we feel we must carry on our own.

In honor of her late friend Dave, who was her security guard, Jessie sang her song I’ll Never Know Why from her sixth album for the Royal Variety Performance. She said, “I sang it because I knew it would be a shock to those who are lying on their sofas at home and feeling disgusted. I wanted to let them know that I see them.”

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Kate and the actress have previously spoken about working together on suicide prevention. Jessica shared other health issues, including a miscarriage in 2021 and a car accident in 2020 that damaged her larynx and voice.

She cheekedly, describing the Royal Variety Performance as being “like a school assembly with a big budget” and claiming that “everyone is on the stage at the end, like “Oh, it’s a cast of Les Mis and me and like Stephen Fry.”

“And then we go in to meet the royals, which is amazing.” Speaking about her son Sky, two – her boy with basketball pro Chanan Colman – she said: “He’s the joy of my whole entire world. It’s like Christmas morn-ing every time I wake up and I hear him.”

Describing herself as a very hands-on parent, she said at the launch of her new album, Don’t Tease Me With a Good Time, which is out on Friday: “I’m a very Aries, fire-signy, micromanaging mum. A micro-mum.”

He appears to be eager to repeat the experience she shared with her at Radio 2 in the Park in Chelmsford, Essex, in September. He’s so funny, Jessie said. Can I come to work, he asks? Because he wants to come, I can’t tell him I’m going to work.

Kemi Rodgers, the star of I’m A Celebrity: Unpacked, revealed that she had been dating Thomas Hannett for almost a year before making a public statement about their relationship.

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Kemi Rodgers has revealed that she had been dating her new boyfriend, Thomas Hannett, for nearly a year before she confirmed their relationship in public. The TV star, 30, hard launched the news that she and her Capital FM producer were together in September when she posted snaps of their romantic trip to Paris onto social media, but has now admitted that they were actually together this time last year.

The radio presenter and former Mirror journalist, who is currently heading up the I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! spin-off show Unpacked alongside Joel Dommett in Australia, was asked how she feels about being temporarily long-distance and revealed that this is actually the second time they have had to do it.

She told The Mirror: “We’re gonna have a little bit of a holiday at the end of the show, which I’m so excited to see him. But the thing is, is we were actually together last year when I did the show. And of course, he didn’t come out for the entire run. Yeah, it’s long distance, but it’s only long distance for like a month.

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People who have partners who work or reside in various parts of the country for months at once say, “There are people.” I can’t claim to have suffered at all because, well, my heart goes out to them. So yeah, there have been many FaceTimes, messages, and messages, and then, yes, we are very excited to be reunited with him and our little girl.

The traditional English build-up to Christmas, however, is something Kemi misses while she is away in Australia. I miss the holiday spirit, she said. I actually stuffed a mince pie in my gob before I was picked up by the airport because there isn’t any Christmas spirit here, so I ate it right away. Everything sounds like it’s sunny, and I can’t hear any Christmas music.

“I don’t see any Christmas trees,” I said. I believe that the British do a great job of running up to Christmas, like drinking red wine with your friends and enjoying mulled wine at a Christmas market, and that is something that colder nations would do as well.

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“There’s like none of the Christmas leader, which I would argue is probably more fun than actual Christmas day. So it’s so weird because when I come back, it’ll be a few days before Christmas and then you’ll suddenly be plunged into darkness, plunged into cold, see Christmas lights everywhere. So Christmas kind of comes and goes very quickly, like… I don’t know, you don’t have all the Christmas parties, and going out Christmas shopping, and looking at the lights.

“Listen, this is not, at all, woe is me,” However, I just want to say that it just has a different vibe. So it’s quite nice to be essentially a parachute landing, or slap bang into Christmas. But I guess I’ll miss the mince pies, yes. Over here, I’ll make an effort to find some. I’ll check if they’re around.

After Kemi and her boyfriend, Thomas Hannett, were enjoying the weather in Paris, Kemi posted a short video to her Instagram account.

They used the famous TikTok audio featuring a person’s voice saying: “Are you happy to be in Paris?”, which Thomas lip-synced before Kemi, 30, said: “Oui.” In the caption, she wrote: “Wine drunk in Paris and thought the best way to hard launch my boyfriend on the grid was with the iconic Nicki Minaj ‘Oui’ video loooooool.

She continued, “My heart is truly in the sun when I pour a bottle of sangrre.” “Friends and fans congratulated the pair in the comments section after the launch. The hard launch we’ve all been waiting for was said by one pal, “and finally.”

While one fan commented: “City of Love,” Sonny Jay wrote: “Très bien, ” I notice what you did there.

Get Me Out of Here Because I’m A Celebrity! airs on ITV1 and ITVX every day at 9 p.m., followed by Unpacked on ITV2.