Category Entertainment News

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo performed together in a television special, Wicked: One Wonderful Night, ahead of the release of the second and final part of the two-part film adaptation, Wicked: For Good

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Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo recently delighted fans in a television special ahead of the release of the second instalment of the film adaptation of the beloved stage show, Wicked. The one-time concert-style event offered fans an insight into the cast’s experiences as the two-part film saga comes to a close.

The sequel, titled Wicked: For Good, will be released on November 21 and sees Ariana and Cynthia reprise their Academy-award nominated roles as Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. Wicked: One Wonderful Night serves as an accompaniment to the new film, with live vocal performances from the film’s cast featuring a variety of songs from the two films and more.

A snippet of the lead stars performing a duet of Happy Days are Here Again and Get Happy, originally sang by legends Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand on The Judy Garland Show in 1963, was shared on social media, prompting everyone to say the same thing about Ariana’s voice.

The popstar and actress originally shot to fame playing Cat Valentine on the Nickelodeon show, Victorious, in 2010 which offered her a platform that served as a launchpad for her successful music career.

She’s known and loved for her impressive vocal range, which has been showcased in different ways through her role as Glinda in the Wicked films.

Some fans may have been surprised to see the popstar step into a role made famous on Broadway but Ariana first got her start treading the boards, with a part in the Broadway musical 13 back in 2008.

When NBC shared a clip of her and her co-star’s performance on TikTok, fans were keen to share their thoughts.

One person said: “Ariana’s vocal never been this powerful and clear”.

Another agreed: “I’ve never heard Ariana’s tone sounding this full and powerful, she is constantly better, it’s like she cannot stop upgrading”.

While a third added: “Oh she’s using her full voice, love her down”.

A fourth chimed: “Her voice sounds the healthiest it’s ever sounded,” while another agreed: “Nice to hear Ari belting”.

Someone else also added: “They need to lock in and make a Christmas album…”

Others were keen to point out the song had been featured on the hit musical comedy drama series Glee, sung by Lea Michele’s character Rachel Berry and Chris Colfer’s Kurt Hummel.

One fan of the show said: “Kurt and Rachel would be SCREAMING”.

Another quipped: “the torch has been passed (from Rachel Berry and Kurt)”.

And a third simply commented: “Omg yes Kurt and Rachel”.

Someone else observed: “So interesting how Glee is how people know this song and not from Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland”.

The Wicked musical, by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, is a loose adaptation of Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which was based on the 1900 book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum and the 1939 film adaptation, which starred Judy Garland.

Bonnie Blue’s former husband has finally moved on after the breakdown of their marriage, and despite still being friends, it appears he had eyes for another pal of hers

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Bonnie Blue’s ex-husband has found love with her close pal.

Before becoming the notorious OnlyFans creator Bonnie Blue, Tia Billinger was parried to privately educated rugby star, Ollie Davidson. The pair tied the knot in 2022 before splitting up with Bonnie going on to create adult videos online with one seeing her sleep with 1,000 men in 12 hours,

The pair had met years before as teenagers at a party. But their relationship soon started to break down, but Bonnie insists that this was not due to her adult career and stated that they simply “grew apart”.

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Now, Ollie has found love again – this time, with a former close friend of Bonnie’s. He’s dating her former publicist, Emma Gillman, who shared the news on social media over the weekend. Emma, the founder of a sex positive media company, announced that she and Davidson were together in a happy Instagram post.

It’s claimed that Emma and Bonnie’s working relationship started to deteriorate when the latter began dating Davidson. Taking to Instagram, Emma shared a string of snaps of herself and Ollie on a loved-up getaway. Captioning her post, she penned: “Plot twist,” alongside a pink heart emoji.

Her post was soon flooded with gushing comments, with one Instagram user writing: “Do you need a publicist? That’s a big plot twist! Congrats lovely.” “Fabulous plot twist,” said a second. Meanwhile, a third went on to type: “Couple goals!”

Speaking about their relationship, Gillman told the Daily Mail Australia: “I understand there could be interest in it, but we’re just two people enjoying each other’s company. Two people enjoying each other’s company.”

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It’s claimed that she’s now planning on moving to the United Kingdom, in order to be closer to Ollie. Bonnie and Ollie announced their split in July this year, after three years of marriage and being together for a decade. They first met at a New Year’s Eve party as teens before tying the knot in an “intimate” wedding, before moving to the Gold Coast together.

While Bonnie previously stated her now ex-husband was supportive of her career choice, his mother, Gill Davidson, said that while he was supportive at the start, Bonnie’s antics were “embarrassing”.

During an interview last week, Bonnie was asked about the breakdown of her marriage, telling Australia’s A Current Affair: “It had nothing to do with the job, we just grew apart. And I think most people in marriages stay with their partner just because they’ve been with them a long time.”

But was she sad about their split and growing apart? No. Bonnie said: “No, I got with him when I was 14. I’ve grown a lot as a person. I’ve changed a lot and I really know what I enjoy in life now and what makes me happy – and that isn’t the same person that brought me happiness when I was 14.”

The Mirror has approached Bonnie and Emma for comment.

The EastEnders star had a string of personal tragedies and eventually lost all of his fortune

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He was one of Britain’s most cherished soap actors but despite his fame as one of the most recognisable faces on television, this star lost everything.

Beneath the trademark trilby and mischievous smile of EastEnders ‘ loveable rogue Frank Butcher, Mike Reid’s real life was considerably more chaotic than his on-screen persona.

The comedian-turned-actor climbed from the East End comedy club scene to achieve national fame, yet a series of devastating personal losses and catastrophic financial problems ultimately destroyed him.

When he passed away in 2007, at only 67-years-old, Reid had been stripped of his wealth and, as he himself put it, “everything that mattered.”

Born in Hackney, East London in 1940, Reid came from humble beginnings and left education at an early age.

Prior to his breakthrough in entertainment, he lived a varied life that allegedly involved minor criminal activity and, most notably, associations with East End gangland personalities including the Kray twins.

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His initial career saw him working as a stuntman on productions including The Dirty Dozen and the James Bond parody Casino Royale throughout the 1960s, before transitioning into comedy.

His razor-sharp wit and rapid-fire comic timing quickly won over crowds on the stand-up scene.

By the start of the 1970s, he’d become a recognisable face nationwide, appearing on ITV’s The Comedians. During the programme’s peak popularity, it delivered him widespread recognition and established his reputation as a straight-talking entertainer with his unmistakable cockney persona.

In 1987, Reid secured the part that would come to define his entire career – Frank Butcher in EastEnders. Brought in initially as a part-time role, Frank became a regular the following year after buying the Queen Vic from Den Watts.

With his signature trilby hat, flamboyant outfits, and rapid-fire speech, Butcher swiftly emerged as one of the show’s most iconic characters.

Reid’s real-life persona frequently merged with his television counterpart.

He confessed that portraying Frank’s mental breakdown storyline during the mid-1990s proved so draining that he experienced anxiety himself and left the programme for over a year.

Nevertheless, he made several comebacks, with Frank’s stormy relationships with Pat (Pam St Clement) and Peggy ( Barbara Windsor ) ranking amongst the soap’s highest-rated moments.

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Outside EastEnders, Reid pursued his acting career, featuring in Guy Ritchie’s Snatch as diamond merchant Doug “The Head” and in numerous lower-budget productions.

He also kept his ties to the cabaret scene, where his background in stand-up comedy remained integral to his performances.

Whilst Reid’s professional life delivered fame and financial security, his personal circumstances were scarred by a series of devastating events. In 1990, his youngest son Mark, who had been struggling with serious mental health problems for years, fatally shot a friend.

He subsequently set fire to himself and died from his wounds. “It is my true and honest belief that Mark had gone to scare his mate by firing at the wall beside him but instead shot him point-blank in the heart,” Reid wrote in his autobiography T’riffic.

“The shooting might have been intentional but the end result wasn’t. I know Mark was clear-headed enough to ring his mum then go back to Ian to try to staunch the blood with towels. It was no good because the poor lad must have been dead before he hit the ground.

“As time went on after Ian’s death, it appeared Mark got it into his head that he’d caused so much suffering to others, he should inflict as much as possible on himself.”

He said: “Mark killed himself in the most horrible way you could imagine.”

Months later, Reid’s granddaughter – Mark’s daughter – tragically died from cot death.

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Years earlier, his first child had passed away just five days after birth.

Reid spoke openly about how these devastating losses affected him, acknowledging that the anguish never truly disappears: “People must see me on TV or in cabaret laughing, singing, cracking gags and imagine that time has healed the pain and the scars. If only they knew. My son is locked away inside – not forgotten, just hidden away in what part we keep our private grief. Otherwise I couldn’t function.”

Reid’s finances also collapsed. A disastrous investment in Spain destroyed a substantial portion of his fortune, plunging not only him but also members of his wider family into financial hardship. Despite medical advice, Reid was a heavy smoker throughout most of his life.

In July 2007, whilst living in Marbella, Spain, he tragically passed away at the age of 67 due to a suspected heart attack. This occurred just weeks after he had been given an all-clear following a comprehensive medical examination.

Despite a long-standing career in the entertainment industry, which encompassed prime-time television roles and profitable comedy tours, he sadly passed away in 2007 with minimal funds remaining.

Reid’s funeral was held at Little Easton Parish Church in Essex and saw over 250 attendees, including numerous former EastEnders colleagues such as Pam St Clement, Barbara Windsor, June Brown, and Sid Owen. Fans were also invited to pay their respects, reflecting the public’s affection for him.

The Strictly star’s range includes a ‘stunning’ faux fur jacket that shoppers are raving about

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Former Love Islander Tasha Ghouri has released a stunning party edit with Next, and it’s landed just in time for the Christmas period. The Strictly Come Dancing star’s chic collection includes everything from glam faux-fur coats and boots to skirts and party dresses.

With prices starting from £24 for a satin halter top or a metallic faux leather mini skirt, there’s something for every fashion lover to shop this season.

Other retailers with stylish party dresses to shop for the festive period include Noughts & Kisses where we’ve spotted this gorgeous Amaya Black Lace Cut Out Mini Dress for £65.

Alternatively, fashion enthusiasts can head to Marks & Spencer where they’ll find chic party buys such as the £46 Embellished Bodycon Midi Dress or the Embellished Bow Detail Mini Dress for £65.

Back at Next, and Tasha, famed for her stylish outfits, also has a whole host of items perfect for gifting to a fashion lover this Christmas including gorgeous bags and statement heels. Whether shoppers are in the market for a new festive party outfit or want to start Christmas shopping, here’s some of our favourite finds…

Get Tasha’s look

£64

Buy here

Dark Grey Metallic Faux Leather Mini Skirt – £24

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Available in both regular and petite lengths, this metallic skirt is shoppable in navy and dark grey. Perfect for wearing both with bare legs or sheer tights, it would team well with heels or boots. We love how versatile it is to style, and so do shoppers it would seem, as it’s already selling out in some sizes in the silver colourway.

Whilst the item currently has no reviews on Next’s website, it’s worth noting some fashion fans may find the skirt too short or long for their preference thanks to the mini design.

Black Faux Leather Mini Shorts – £25

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This pair of faux leather shorts will see fashion fans through the festive period and well into the new year. They can be styled with bare legs or sheer tights and dressed up or down depending on the occasion. We love the idea of teaming them with a chunky knit to make the most out of the contrasting textures.

Whilst the shorts currently have no reviews on Next’s website, it’s worth considering some may find the faux leather material a little restrictive.

Chocolate Brown Super Soft Roll Edge High Neck Jumper – £26

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This High Neck Jumper is a great everyday staple that would form the basis of so many cosy looks. Available in chic chocolate brown or khaki green shades, it’s ideal for tucking into skirts or trousers. The lightweight material also makes it perfect for layering.

Whilst the roll neck design may not be to every shopper’s taste, we think it adds a dressy touch to an otherwise casual piece.

White Faux Feather Mini Skirt – £29

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Those who want something fun for party season need look no further than this faux feather mini skirt. Easy to style with a plain tee and heels, it’s a statement piece that needs very little accessorising.

It’s worth considering there may be some fallout from the feathers during wear and the item is listed as hand wash only, however we think it’s the perfect piece for party season.

High Rise Palazzo Wide Leg Jeans – £45

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Jeans are a staple in many a wardrobe and we love the flattering wide leg design of this palazzo pair. Available in multiple colours including black, brown, grey stripe, and a dark blue, they currently boast a perfect five star review score on the Next website.

One shopper said: “Comfortable fit, looks great.” Whilst the item has no negative reviews, shoppers may wish to consider that the flare on the legs looks pretty voluminous, meaning they may be impractical for some. However, we like that the jeans are available in various lengths so fashion enthusiasts can shop their desired fit.

Sequin Velvet Wide Leg Trousers – £45

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Sequin trousers are a great alternative to a party dress for those who still want to look dressy but prefer more coverage. Next’s sequin trousers boast a comfy drawstring detail and a chic wide leg fit, plus they’re available in multiple colours including silver and navy. Shoppers can team with a cosy knit to dress them down, or elevate their look by styling with a shirt or fitted top.

Perhaps surprisingly, the item is machine washable, making it easy to care for, however fashion lovers should consider there is likely to be fallout during wear, as is often the case with sequinned pieces.

Neutral Faux Fur Zip Through Jacket – £64

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This faux fur zip through jacket looks super cosy for winter, and we think it’s a great party outfit cover up. Available in neutral or chocolate brown, it instantly adds a chic touch to jeans and trousers or dresses and skirts. One shopper who reviewed the item said: “A stunning jacket. The colour and faux fur are both excellent. True to size.”

Another Next customer wrote: “Gorgeous quality fur and a deep, rich brown. It is a true bomber jacket coming at about waist length and the elastic at the waist is quite substantial so really cinches the bottom in. Knocked one star off as the pockets are quite shallow and I thought it came up on the slightly small size for outerwear.”

Rinse Denim Belted Wide Leg Jumpsuit – £75

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This stylish denim jumpsuit takes the hard work out of deciding what to wear in the morning as it can easily be styled with Boots, heels, or trainers. Available in petite, regular and tall lengths, it’s shoppable in UK sizes 6-22.

We like that the timeless design boasts a waist-cinching belt for a flattering finish. One thing we’d note is that some shoppers may find the fit varies depending on their torso length thanks to the all-in-one cut.

Black Premium Embellished Sequin Column Skirt – £72

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We think this stunning embellished skirt is way more versatile than it might appear at first glance. Easy to style with a bandeau top, a tee, or a knit, it’s perfect for those who want a touch of sparkle without opting for anything overtly festive.

Molly-Mae Hague has revealed how she starts the day with her Love Island partner Tommy Fury after the pair rekindled their romance at the turn of the year

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Love Island couple Molly Mae Hague and Tommy Fury seem very much the happy pair again after a short separation. And now the Maebe founder has cheekily revealed how she starts the day with her boxing beau.

After splitting last year following a five-year relationship, Molly and Tommy rekindled their romance over the new year period. Molly has now revealed the duo are in a healthy, happy place and shared a look into their life on her latest vlog.

Taking to her weekly YouTube channel, she was seen with Tommy as the pair messed around playfully. The pugilist told viewers he enjoys starting the day with a cold showers, which helps him “mentally lock in”.

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Despite his comments, he asked Molly not to use his admission in her upload. However, she insisted as she laughed: “Best believe I’m using all of it!”

In the clip, Tommy was seen standing in front of the shower cubicle. And Molly explained the duo, who are parents to two-year-old Bambi, often shower together in the morning.

Basically, TMI, but we actually have a shower together pretty much every day,” she explained. “Because we both get in the shower at the same time and there is two shower heads in there.

“So we just shower but separately at the same time because we just our shower times cross over.”

And fans were loving seeing the pair on such good terms again after seemingly ending their partnership. In the comments section of the upload, one user gushed: “My heart melts seeing you all together.”

Molly also opened up on the issues she is facing as she looks to sell her lavish home. In her latest dilemma while on a video post on social media, Molly told fans that she is in a quandary when it comes to the sale of her £3.8million house.

She admitted she doesn’t want to let it go but knows she has to. Speaking on the vlog, she said: “Like I still don’t know what I’m doing in terms of this house.”

She added that there are “a lot of big decisions need to be made in terms of what I’m going to do with this house, and I’ve mentioned it [but] I don’t want to sell it.

“I don’t particularly want to rent it out,” she said, “but then equally, what am I keeping it for? I don’t know. I just don’t, I really, really don’t know.

“Like there’s some things, that I know in my mind like I’m ready to do, and I want to do, but like in terms of this house…This house will always be so incredibly sentimental to me.”

BBC presenter Gabby Logan admitted the family transition felt “weird” as she navigates a new chapter with her husband of 24 years, Kenny Logan

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Gabby Logan has opened up about a positive turn in her marriage to former rugby star Kenny Logan. The couple are currently adjusting to life with an empty nest after their 19-year-old twins Reuben and Lois embarked on their own career journeys.

Lois, a jockey, headed back to her university in Leicestershire for her second year in September. This comes after Gabby previously admitted to being in floods of tears after saying goodbye to her daughter last year.

Meanwhile, Reuben has followed his dad’s rugby path. Back in April, Sale Sharks revealed they had snapped up the Scotland Under-20 forward on a two-year deal from Northampton Saints.

Before their children flew the nest, Gabby confessed the adjustment was “going to feel a bit weird”. However, the 52-year-old has now embraced the change by enjoying more precious moments with her husband.

Speaking to Hello! Magazine, she revealed: “We did some lovely trips this summer because Reuben was playing for the under-20s World Cup, so we went to Verona, Milan, just quick trips, two nights to watch the match.

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“It was so nice because we had the purpose of being there to watch the game, but we didn’t get to hang out with him, because he was with the team.

“So we’d watch him, give him a cuddle afterwards, and then we’d go back to the lovely hotel, have dinner together.

“I’m looking forward to spending more little trips like that, just the two of us.”

Previously speaking about their marriage, Gabby opened up about the hurdles they’ve encountered and how they’ve navigated them.

“In any relationship, you’re going to have ups and downs,” she told Bella Magazine.

“We have differences in our opinions, but we are grown-up enough to discuss them.”

She added: “It’s knowing how to communicate through those challenging times, finding a common ground and having a sense of humour.”

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One of the most challenging obstacles they confronted together was Kenny’s fight against prostate cancer in 2022.

The father-of-two chose to get examined after listening to Gabby discussing women’s health struggles on her The MidPoint podcast.

He told The Telegraph: “I thought, ‘What can men do for their own health?’ We need to take responsibility, too.”

Without an NHS prostate screening programme available, Kenny opted for a private examination, which involved having his PSA levels checked.

While he experienced no symptoms at the time, a biopsy subsequently confirmed his diagnosis after his PSA level climbed to over seven.

“That news left me and Gabby reeling,” he admitted. “I’ve played sports all my life so I’m fit, I eat well and have never smoked. I’ve mostly drunk in moderation.

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“Yet, as the doctor said to me, prostate cancer isn’t caused by lifestyle, there is nothing to ‘blame’, and what’s more, it’s often entirely symptomless, as mine had been.

“I was two months shy of my 50th birthday at that time, I felt entirely well, and it was all such a shock that I almost fell over.”

Following his choice to have his prostate removed, the 53-year-old felt “95% back to normal” three months post-operation and received the all-clear.