Category Entertainment News

Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Jamie Borthwick has issued an apology for using a disabled slur and has reportedly been suspended from EastEnders as a result

EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick has declared he is “deeply sorry” for using a derogatory term about disabled people – and it is reported he is now suspended from the BBC show. The shock news comes six months after he was competing on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing – which is when the incident is said to have taken place.

The 30-year-old actor has appeared on EastEnders since 2006 in which he plays Jay Brown. However, it is stated he is on suspension from the soap following the revelation he used offensive language in a video that was allegedly shared with friends.

It has been reported the star was recorded using a derogatory word to describe locals in Blackpool – where the BBC show filmed a glitzy live episode from the Blackpool Tower Ballroom. The word he used is a derogatory term regarded as a disabled slur.

The star has sparked condemnation from the disability charity Scope and a local politician in Blackpool. It is reported footage was made of Jamie using the word which was then send to one of his friends.

He has issued a groveling apology which has been shared by The Sun on Sunday, stating: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly.

“I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely.

“Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong.” He went on to issue an apology to the people of Blackpool and reiterate his regret over his words. The Mirror has contacted a representative of the star for comment.

Meanwhile, The Sun claims that he has been suspended from EastEnders. When asked for comment, a BBC spokesperson told The Mirror: “This language is entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect at the BBC. We have robust processes in place for this.”

Last year, Jamie appeared on Strictly where he was paired with professional dancer Michelle Tsiakkas. They featured alongside Go Compare opera singer Wynne Evans, 53, who sparked scandal when he ran his hands over his dance partner Katya Jones. While he and Katya dismissed the move as a joke, Wynne drew further scrutiny over comments that he made behind the scenes of the BBC show and accompanying live tour.

Jamie was grazed by the scandal due to his close friendship with Wynne – while it was suggested an adult nickname he had for the soap star had led to a misunderstanding behind the scenes of Strictly Live. Wynne has been tied into the new scandal, as he reportedly reacted to Jamie using the disabled slur to exclaim “Oh my god” while they were together on the set of the BBC show.

The incident is believed to have happened in November last year while the BBC show was recording from the Blackpool Tower Ballroom. It has been a difficult past few years for Strictly as it has lurched from one crisis to another.

The 2023 season was under a cloud as actress Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice dropped out of the contest amid rumours of a backstage clash. The following year, their disagreement drew months of headlines as the Sherlock star accused the dancer of abusive behaviour.

The BBC conducted an investigation and Giovanni quit the show. The 2025 season is tipped to get underway in just two months time.

Bianca Censori, Kim Kardashian’s wife, announced a significant career move just days after she once again caused a stir as a result of her racy outfit choices.

Bianca Censori has returned to social media in recent days, and the reason could soon be clear. The 30-year-old architect and wife of Kanye West had steered clear from public attention in recent weeks but is back with yet more controversial looks.

And while her posts don’t specifically address the reasons behind them, it has been revealed that she has taken a career break from her husband. The Australian beauty, who remained by her man’s side when she was an architect at Yeeze in 2020, has since changed jobs.

She has continued to turn heads and create chaos with her barely-there outfits alongside the rapper, 47, but her recent uploads have shown her alone. And now it’s been revealed she has set up her first U.S. company, Bianca Censori Inc, which was registered last month with the state of California.

According to the Sun, Bianca has also registered her full name as an Australian firm, based in Alphington. The affluent Melbourne suburb is currently the home of her parents.

The publication gives indications that the business might be involved in cosmetics. The chief financial officer, who specializes in selling cosmetic treatments, is identified as Hussein Lalani, according to the report.

Her most recent appearance resulted in her risk being arrested for her constant, inappropriate public exposure. She once more donned an X-rated outfit to shock the fans. In a pair of sheer pantyhose and a see-through black fishnet top, she left little to be desired.

To her Instagram page, she shared three separate images of herself standing in a fully see-through ensemble in the middle of the street. As she posed with her hands spread apart in front of her legs and posed with her hands behind her back in an edgy wolfe-cut and adding an oversized pair of sunglasses to complete the look. Fans flocked to the comment section to discuss her most recent outfit after sharing the three photos.

One user joked that “sometimes less really isn’t more;” while another gawked, “God, I just opened the Instagram app to see this.”

A third woman criticized her, “This girl needs to realize that showing off every inch of your body in such a vulgar way is not what women do.” The class and decorum are gone. Not in good shape.

It’s far from the first time Bianca had sparked outrage with her outfit choices. At the Grammy Awards ceremony back in February alongside Kanye, she shocked photographers on the red carpet.

As she dropped her fur coat to reveal the naked dress. The stunt caused a mass reaction among fans. Some shared their concern for Bianca’s welfare, claiming Kayne had forced her to do it.

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Highlife legend Mike Ejeagha’s tribute to comedian Brain Jotter, aka Chukwuebuka Emmanuel, was given new life by a viral social media challenge that led to the release of the 1983 film “gwo gwo ngwo.”

Ejeagha passed away on Friday at the age of 95.

Brain Jotter posted a throwback video of the late musician on Instagram on Saturday, saying, “39 years ago, he made magic. 39 years later, we re-danced to it. He is now resting, but his melody will always live. Rest in peace, legend.

After his skit featuring the track Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche propelled the decades-old song into a viral sensation, the comedian had visited Ejeagha at his Enugu home in July 2024.

The veteran musician watched a new generation embrace his timeless work with teary eyes as a result of the encounter.

During the visit, Ejeagha’s son had remarked, “Thank you for returning my father’s legacy.” This is the most attention his music has received in more than 30 years. Additionally, Brain Jotter and his team thanked the family for their support and donation of $2 million.

READ MORE about Mike Ejeagha’s classic Sparks Viral Dance Challenge, “Gwo Gwo Ngwo.”

Obi Mourn, Tinubu, and Atiku

The veteran singer passed away shortly after the song went viral, which prompted a wave of tributes. Bola Tinubu, president, set the tone.

Ejeagha was described as “one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language” by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement.

“Mike Ejeagha inspired generations by his unique storytelling style and musical style, preserving and projecting Igbo culture and customs.

The music of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha continues to inspire us that music has the power to rekindle, heal, and direct energy toward good causes that advance our country, said Tinubu.

The president also praised Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for acknowledging Ejeagha’s contributions while he was still alive, including changing the name of a major Abakpa Nike road to Chief Mike Ejeagha Road.

Atiku Abubakar, the legendary politician’s former vice president, praised the viral challenge as a source of joy in his final months.

It is heartwarming to note that Brain Jotter’s performance included the encore dance “Gwo gwo gwo ngwo” by highlife legend Mike Ejeagha before the curtain was drawn. Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, “Atiku wrote on X,” is the best in music.

Peter Obi, a member of the Labour Party, described Ejeagha as a “cultural custodian.” His voice will continue to ring out through generations as testaments to wisdom, culture, and truth as he enters a new era, but not his voice.

Obi praised his lyrics, which were full of proverbs and folklore, as moral compasses for both young and old.

Ejeagha was described as “a legend, cultural ambassador, and revered son of Enugu State,” according to Governor Peter Mbah, who also had sentiments.

Mbah promised to make the musician’s memory more immortal, noting that “his death leaves a huge void that will be difficult to fill.”

Reimagined as a violent sensation

The song was first released in 1983 as part of Akuko Na Egwu Vol. A clever tortoise deceives an elephant to win a princess’s favor in marriage, according to the first album.

The comedic reenactment of the elephant chasing the tortoise in Brain Jotter’s skit quickly dominated TikTok and Instagram, generating over 28 million views in a week.

Two dancers meet, perform an unusual leg shuffle, and then one suddenly vanishes while the other chases, resembling the song’s vivid imagery.

The dance sparked a flurry of nostalgia and excitement all over, including Super Falcons and celebrities.

International participants eventually joined the dance challenge, with many others coming from other countries.

Chris Hughes’ ex-girlfriend JoJo Siwa and Love Island co-star JoJo Siwa have a heated relationship, and his ex-girlfriend has revealed that she is expecting their first child.

Chris Hughes’s professional sport star ex-girlfriend has announced she is expecting her first child – just as his romance with Celebrity Big Brother co-star JoJo Siwa has been confirmed. Professional golfer Annabel Dimmock, 28, shared her happy news via a social media post on Saturday.

The golf star took to Instagram showing herself wearing a pink crop top and a pair of short denim shorts. With her legs dangling into a swimming pool, the star showed her growing baby bump.

In an accompanying caption, she wrote: “New rookie on tour coming soon” alongside pink heart emojis – and thereby announcing her pregnancy. Fans were quick to take to the comments to wish her well – and noted that the star was posing with baby pink baby shoes.

One person expressed their happiness when they saw you. Another phrase was written, “Congratulations you’re going to make the best mother, I’m so excited to meet her.”

Annabel previously enjoyed a 14 month romance with Love Island star Chris which lasted from 2020 until 2022. Chris had previously hinted the split hit him hard.

“I’m in a good place,” I said. When a relationship is just beginning, he said to The Sun in 2022, “I always struggle a little bit.”

“But I’m working out at the gym and working on my work. I’m a complete stranger in the store. I feel good because I have good friends and family around me, which is also a blessing.

Agent of Annabel had previously told OK! “Annabel wishes Chris the best of luck and I can confirm that they have split,” the magazine said. She then moved on to date Alfie Best Jr., whose businessman father Alfie Best Sr. is credited with making his father, a successful entrepreneur, worth £10 million.

A source told The Sun that “Alfie is a really liked guy and has been a great match for Annabel” when the romance first surfaced in June of 2023. The pair are head over heels for taking their own actions rather than posting their thoughts everywhere.

Chris has since found a new romance, however, with American pop singer JoJo Siwa, 22. The pair fell for each other after appearing on ITV’s Celebrity Big Brother in April this year.

Viewers watched in surprise as the pair grew extremely close while in the house – despite the fact JoJo had a girlfriend, Kath Ebbs, on the outside world. When the series concluded, Kath sensationally claimed that JoJo had dumped her at the CBB wrap party.

When JoJo and Chris were photographed kissing in a swimming pool during a vacation together in Mexico, they raised eyebrows.

Chris and the younger star later exchange photos of themselves in bed to confirm their romance. JoJo has since opened up about their relationship, telling Lorraine on ITV that Chris and I have a lot of conversations. The head is turning as we enter the kitchen, but that version is the only one we have. The best man is him.

She responded, “It’s so funny to me. I’m not sure what was going on. How innocent people are is hilarious. She claimed that he had given her roses as discount flowers when they were discovered. This adorable clip of him has the sticker on it, but better news is that the flowers are in a blender bottle, which everyone should be aware of. The best is him.

Over the years, the Jeremy Kyle Show on ITV has drawn controversy, with one guest who accidentally killed his girlfriend’s hamster after discovering out he wasn’t her baby’s father.

A former star of The Jeremy Kyle Show has had his lifetime ban on owning animals lifted.

Controversial host Jeremy, 59, confessed that he still feels “immensely proud” of the ITV show, despite it being a factor in the death in one of its guests. The programme showcased a diverse range of individuals to the public, including an elderly escort who happily had sex with over 1,000 men.

However, a previous visitor has since filed a lawsuit to have his lifetime animal keeping ban lifted. A judge granted this right to Stevenage resident Ryan O’Brien, who claimed he had been successful in “turning his life around” and demonstrating his ability to look after a pet.

READ MORE: Jeremy Kyle guest who threatened to ‘knock out’ the host is on road to being drug free

After smashing a hamster against a wall and striking it, O’Brien admitted to inflicting unnecessary suffering on an animal in 2012. O’Brien and his girlfriend had a turbulent relationship that had just ended shortly before the incident, according to The Comet, which was occurring at the time of the animal’s death.

After appearing on a contentious ITV program to find out if he was the father of a 13-month-old girl he had been co-parenting with his partner, his relationship abruptly ended. A DNA test revealed that he was not the father of the child while he was on the show, according to the Daily Star.

O’Brien was initially given a suspended jail term and an indefinite ban on keeping or owning animals after admitting the offence. He has, however, persuaded the court to uphold his reformation, which is a dramatic turn.

No fewer than four witnesses defended his transformation when he appeared in court on May 22 to show evidence that he was now fit to care for a pet. His lawyer made a press release revealing that O’Brien’s demeanor had significantly changed since the magistrates had witnessed.

O’Brien, 35, has welcomed a small British bulldog pup named Dotty into his family. He shared his journey of turning over a new leaf while collaborating with The Comet and allowing substance abuse to focus on improving himself.

He proudly reported to the paper that he had just completed a three-year apprenticeship with the construction firm Wates and that he was a qualified electrician, tiler, and decorator. He also volunteers at warm spaces and food banks, giving back to the community.

O’Brien said, “Many things have changed, and I’ve changed.” “My body isn’t breaking a bone right now,” I said. He expressed regret over his past deeds, saying, “My life’s biggest regret is killing the hamster.” I was simply not thinking at the time.

O’Brien acknowledged that despite his best efforts to move forward, the consequences of his past are still present, and public humiliation is a reminder of this. He thanked The Jeremy Kyle Show for revealing the truth about his ex-partner, though.

He shared that he’s been clean since Christmas, steering clear of drugs for the past two years. He admitted reaching a juncture where he was “sick” of his previous lifestyle. Now, with “a good support network of friends”, he’s turned a new page: “I have stopped hanging out with people who were bad for me.”

A tense clear the air meeting between Meghan and Kate was revealed by Prince Harry in Spare – and experts have explained how it changed the course of the monarchy

A clear-the-air meeting between Waleses and the Sussexes “ripped the monarchy to pieces”, a royal expert has claimed. Back in June 2018, the Prince and Princess of Wales met with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as tension had brewed between the couples after Harry and Meghan’s wedding. It came after, as Harry recounted in his memoir Spare, his new wife seemingly being at loggerheads with his sister-in-law in the early days of their romance.

He says the two women had a row over bridesmaid dresses in the lead-up to his wedding that left Meghan in tears and that Kate “grimaced” when the duchess borrowed her lipgloss. Both couples decided to have a clear-the-air chat shortly after the Sussexes’ honeymoon.

However, things got so tense that Kate’s fingers supposedly went white. Harry describes the moment in his memoir after he and Meghan were invited over to see William and Kate for tea at their Kensington Palace apartment. He recalls how both couples aired their grievances including Kate, who asked for an apology from Meghan as she gripped a leather sofa so tightly her “fingers were white”.

According to Spare, Kate wanted Meghan to say sorry for making a remark about her hormones and having “baby brain” while she was pregnant. The book then recounts how Meghan apologised and explained that is how she speaks to her friends.

But the encounter took a turn when Harry claims William “pointed a finger at Meg”, then allegedly blasted: “Well, it’s rude, Meghan. These things are not done here.” To which he says Meghan responded: “If you don’t mind, keep your finger out of my face.”

Now in a new Channel 5 documentary, ‘Meghan vs Kate: The Meeting That Changed the Monarchy’, royal experts believe this meeting was a turning point for the Sussexes as set the wheels in motion for Harry and Meghan to dramatically quit their royal roles.

According to the Daily Mail’s Richard Kay, this was the meeting that saw “the seed of Megxit sewn” while fellow expert Sarah Hewson said: “Had that meeting been a success, had they been able to put their differences aside, things would have been very different indeed.”

And chief royal correspondent from Newsweek, Jack Royston said: “If only they’d listened. If Meghan had listened what was being said to her, she could have changed way back in 2018. And even if they had still quit the monarchy, they could have saved themselves so much pain and so much conflict.

“What happened in that room back in June 2018 was the defining element of the relationship between the two couples that ripped the monarchy to pieces.”

While respected royal author Valentine Low added: “They had pathetic little differences that should have been sorted out in two minutes. But it helped fuel the flames.”

Harry’s observation in Spare comes after Meghan took aim at Kate during her and Harry’s Netflix docuseries. As she recalled their first meeting she said she was “surprised” by the behind-the-scenes formality of members of the royal family.

Speaking in episode two of the six-part Harry & Meghan docuseries, she said: “When Will and Kate came over, and I met her for the first time, they came over for dinner, I remember I was in ripped jeans and I was barefoot. I was a hugger. I’ve always been a hugger, I didn’t realise that that is really jarring for a lot of Brits.

“I guess I started to understand very quickly that the formality on the outside carried through on the inside. There is a forward-facing way of being, and then you close the door and go ‘You can relax now’, but that formality carries over on both sides. And that was surprising to me.”

Meghan vs Kate: The Meeting That Changed the Monarchy, airs on Channel 5 on Saturday at 9.20pm.