Category Entertainment News

Strictly hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have MBEs but it was Strictly last minute for one of them

TV presenter Tess Daly burst into tears when she opened the letter telling her she was to be made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to broadcasting.

The 56-year-old has been recognised, with her Strictly Come Dancing co-host Claudia Winkleman also becoming an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours.

But it could have all gone horribly wrong for Tess as the letter almost didn’t get to her in time to accept. Tess said: “This genuinely came as the greatest surprise of my life. I don’t think I’ve come back down to earth yet, I didn’t see it coming, and it almost didn’t happen, because the letter went to the wrong address.

“And thank goodness, someone very kind found me. And so by the time I got it, I only had, I think it was two or three days left to accept it. There’s a deadline of acceptance. I can’t imagine not ever wanting to accept such a wonderful award. But of course I did.

“But yes, it was cutting it fine, because it went to the wrong address first of all, but it ended well.”

She added: “I cried when I opened the letter, because I just I couldn’t believe it. I genuinely couldn’t, and the first thing I wanted to do was tell my dad, because I lost my dad many years ago, and I know how proud my dad would have been, and I would love to have shared that news with him more than anything.

“He would been incredibly proud in a very Northern, humble fashion. Because you’re under strict instructions, of course, not to share the news before it’s made public. But I must admit, I did tell immediate members of my family and swore them to secrecy.”

Daly, who has co-presented the BBC One dancing competition since 2004, first appeared on screens in 1999 when she hosted The Big Breakfast’s Find Me A Model competition on Channel 4.

Daly, a model herself, has taken to the catwalk for the likes of Vivienne Westwood and Red Or Dead, and even appeared in music videos for English pop rock band Duran Duran.

In 2002 she presented coverage of the stars arriving and celebrating backstage at the National Television Awards (NTAs) for ITV2 and in 2003 she replaced Ulrika Jonsson as presenter of ITV makeover show Home On Their Own.

A year later she was hired as co-host of Channel 5’s Back To Reality, with Richard Bacon, which saw 12 reality TV stars live together in a west London mansion.

She reached new levels of fame as co-host of Strictly Come Dancing, which she presented alongside the late Sir Bruce Forsyth up until 2014, three years before his death at the age of 89.

Since then Daly has co-hosted the Saturday show with Traitors presenter Winkleman, and the pair helmed coverage of its 20th anniversary series late last year.

In 2024 they picked up the entertainment programme gong at the Bafta TV Awards. On her MBE she said: “It feels like the most wonderful honour, because when you work as a broadcaster, you’re part of people’s viewing habits.

“It feels like a genuine privilege for people to invite you into their living room. For example, being part of Strictly and part of people’s Saturday nights for the past 20 years is something that you don’t ever take that for granted, and it’s just something that I’ve genuinely enjoyed being a part of all these years.

“And as a career, it’s been something really special to share people’s lives in that way it feels like a wonderful honour.

“Broadcasting is without a doubt a collective effort. I’ve been really fortunate to work with some of the very best production teams that there are in the business. And so my biggest thanks is to them, because you’re only as good as your team.”

Daly appeared alongside Sir Terry Wogan when they co-hosted coverage of annual charity appeal show BBC Children In Need, which she has presented numerous times.

Across her career she has interviewed stars including Canadian singer-songwriter Alanis Morissette, rock band No Doubt and US musician Lenny Kravitz.

She fronted a BBC Two documentary in 2011 titled TV Greats: Our Favourites From The North where she took a look at Manchester’s broadcasting past as BBC North bid farewell to its studios in the city to move to Salford.

Daly, along with her husband Vernon Kay, whom she married in 2003, have been patrons for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity since 2007.

In March 2023 the presenter released a food and fitness guide featuring recipes and wellness tips, titled 4 Steps: To A Happier, Healthier You.

She said of Strictly: “I love that for the last 20 years our only agenda has been joy. It’s been just feel-good entertainment, and being a part of that has felt like a gift.”

Daly added: “I’ve got so many wonderful memories from working with Sir Bruce Forsyth back in the beginning, 2004, to working with Claudia and being the first all-female presenting duo on Primetime Telly, and that meant a lot as a mother of girls, to sort of pave the way, that felt quite important at the time, because it hadn’t been done before.

“So to be a part of that and to stand by Claude, Claudia is absolutely brilliant fun, and to do that with her at that time felt quite groundbreaking.”

Strictly co-host Claudia said she was “incredibly grateful” to receive the honour, adding: “I will buy a hat and am taking my mum. I am ridiculously lucky and will celebrate with Tess by doing a paso doble.” The pair are close friends as well as being co-hosts now of Strictly for a decade.

EXCLUSIVE: David Beckham has become a Sir, as it has been announced in the King’s Birthday Honours List that he is set to receive a knighthood, which marks a string of changes for his family

All rise for Sir David Beckham! After days of excited speculation around David, 50, being awarded a knighthood, the news has finally been announced following the official release of the King’s Birthday Honours List.

Sir David has been recognised on the King’s Birthday Honours List, released this evening, which means a number of big changes for Goldenballs and his clan, including his former pop star turned fashion designer wife. Gone are the days Victoria will be nicknamed Posh, and she really has lived up to the moniker as Victoria, who received an OBE in 2017, also receives a new title with David’s honour, and she will now be known as Lady Victoria Beckham.

But, that’s not the only change the Beckhams – who are currently facing a turbulent time amid their fallout with eldest son Brooklyn and wife Nicola – are set to undergo as Royal commentator and former editor of The International Who’s Who, Richard Fitzwilliams, exclusively explains to the Mirror what Sir David’s new knighthood will mean for himself and his family– and if he can use the titles right away, or if he has to wait until he kneels in front of the King who will knight him with a sword…

David Beckham’s knighthood – his and Victoria’s new titles

Richard explains: “Just after his 50th birthday, David Beckham can celebrate his knighthood, which he can use as soon as the King’s Birthday Honours list is officially announced later tonight.

“This means his wife Victoria, who already has an OBE in her own right, becomes Lady Beckham. She was a member of the Spice Girls, one of the most successful girl bands ever and is a talented designer.”

Will David and Victoria’s children receive new titles, too?

Each of the Beckham children are also famous, having grown up in front of the gaze of millions of fans. Although they have earned their own status’ within the world of showbiz, Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper Beckham won’t get any royal recognition due to their dad’s new title.

Richard tells us: “A knighthood is not hereditary, so there will be no direct benefit for his children, but they will or should be proud of him nonetheless.”

What does David’s knighthood mean for his career?

David Beckham’s football career, dashing good looks and celebrity marriage to Spice Girl Victoria Beckham, sorry Lady Beckham, has earned him worldwide celebrity status which has stood the test of time.

But, his knighthood will bring a whole new era in his career as Richard explains: “It is not just that he joins a unique band of fifteen knights who have been honoured for their services to football plus the footballing legend Pele, who has received an honorary knighthood. These include Sir Alex Ferguson, his mentor at Manchester United before they fell out, this will give David particular satisfaction, although they have since reportedly made up.

“We live in an egalitarian age but David Beckham is a phenomenon with a profile that is unique. Owing to the saga of the leaked emails in 2017, we know how keen he was to have a knighthood. However, this is not the point.

“He is a phenomenon who has also used his fame for charitable purposes, this especially involves his invaluable and high profile work for UNICEF. Beckham has backed Britain whenever he can and his role in bringing the Olympics to London was invaluable.

“Usually, a knighthood can mean increased respect and trust and also assist in expanding an individuals profile and opening new doors to show off their talent. Beckham defies categorisation, it would be impossible to be better known.”

As well as catapulting David’s career, it also puts to bed any past scandals – including those sweary leaked emails and the claims he had legally avoided tax.

Royal expert Richard continues: “This also, beginning with the knighthood for Sir Gareth Southgate, who was also allegedly involved in a tax avoidance scheme , closes the door on this issue. It was probably the main reason why it took so long for him to be honoured. The length of time reflected badly on the system as it is, on occasion, too slow to honour deserving individuals. In this case it was far too slow.

“However it will not be forgotten that David is ardently patriotic. He queued for about twelve hours to pass Queen Elizabeth’s coffin during the lying in state. He is also an ambassador for the King’s Foundation.

“The media circus around the Beckhams is beside the point. At last he has the recognition he, as a former England captain with 115 caps for England and a global profile, deserves.

“When he and Victoria celebrate they will have the satisfaction of knowing that the vast majority of Britons will be pleased that, finally, he is receiving the knighthood he so richly deserves.”

What privileges will Sir David get as a knight?

With the prestigious title comes a string of VIP privileges only afforded to those who receive a knighthood.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams tells us: “The Chapel of Knights Bachelor is in St Paul’s Cathedral and he would be entitled to request the use of the Chapel for weddings, baptisms and memorial services.

“As a knight he is also entitled to apply for a coat of arms – perhaps golden balls will feature!”

Meanwhile, like every person who has received a knighthood, Sir David will be treated to an official ceremony. The ceremony, which often happens at Buckingham Palace, will see David kneel in front of a monarch – which can be either the King or another member of the Royal Family such as Princess Anne or Prince William – who will then touch the recipient’s shoulder with a sword.

EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick recently apologised for using a disabled slur. It has been reported his job at the soap is at risk over the scandal

EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick’s job at the long-running soap is reportedly at risk after he used a derogatory term about disabled people. The 30-year-old actor, who has appeared on EastEnders since 2006, in which he plays Jay Brown, reportedly used offensive language in a video that was allegedly shared with friends.

It was reported that the star was recorded using a derogatory word to describe locals in Blackpool, where BBC show Strictly Come Dancing 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 sparked condemnation from the disability charity Scope and a local politician in Blackpool.

It is reported that footage was made of Jamie using the word, which was then sent to one of his friends. He has since issued a grovelling apology for using the offensive slur.

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And now, it’s been said his apology might not be enough to end the scandal. An insider claimed how his character hasn’t been part of a ‘central role in the show for a while’.

“And with a new boss in Ben Wadey who only recently took the helm and with the scandal taking place so soon into his tenure feeling is that Jamie’s place on the show could be at serious risk,” the source claimed to The Sun.

He recently issued a grovelling apology which had 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.

After the publication claimed that he was suspended from EastEnders, 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 over his actions on the show.

The Mirror have reached out to the BBC and Jamie’s representatives for comment.

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Caitlyn Jenner has been left stranded in Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. She had been in Israel for Tel Aviv’s Pride Parade, which was called off today due to ongoing concerns following missile strikes from Iran. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, the decathlon icon shared a picture taken at what appears to be her hotel – the image saw dozens of Iranian missiles flying overhead, with smoke rising from the ground.

“‘Quiet’ night in Tel Aviv. Pray for us all. We will prevail. I am happy to stand with Israel today, now more than ever,” she said. The Olympian told a local TV network that she had been in touch with her family, who are in California. Caitlyn said: “I spoke with my daughter Kylie, and she urged me to stay safe. I reassured her.” She went on to add: “Don’t worry, I’ll keep myself safe, and they’ll take care of me.”

On Thursday, the reality star visited Jerusalem’s Western Wall and shared her visit on social media. She said in the caption: “My heart is here, with the beautiful people, in Israel.”

Five people have since been injured after Iran fired missiles into Tel Aviv, according to medics. Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical service, said one person was treated for moderate injuries while four others suffered minor injuries from shrapnel.

Over the past 24 hours, tensions have been escalating in the Middle East after the Israeli military said it had completed a widespread attack on air defences in western Iran. But while Israelis have been cleared to leave air raid shelters, they have been warned to stay close in case of further attacks.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei has claimed that Israel has initiated a war and that “the Iranian nation must be guaranteed that our response will not be half-measured.” He added that Iran will “inflict heavy blows” on Israel. Less than 100 ballistic missiles have been fired into Israel by Iran this evening.

Effie Defrin said that most were intercepted. He said: “There are a limited number of impacts on buildings, some were caused by interception fragments.”

A spokesperson said this morning that it had destroyed dozens of radar installations and surface-to-air missile launchers. Israel had previously carried out “preemptive strikes” on Iran in the early hours of Friday. wth Israeli officials later declaring a state of emergency ahead of their retaliation.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, said the ongoing strikes were “concerning” and urged “all parties to step back and reduce tensions urgently”, adding that “now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy”.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said he was “concerned” to learn of the Israeli strikes which targeted the Iranian nuclear programme. Posting on X, he penned: “Stability in the Middle East is vital for global security. I’m concerned to see reports of strikes overnight. Further escalation is a serious threat to peace & stability in the region and in no one’s interest.

“This is a dangerous moment & I urge all parties to show restraint.” Starmer has since chaired an urgent Cobra meeting following the escalating tensions. He also held a phone call with Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

Speaking about their conversation, a Downing Street spokesman said: “The Prime Minister was clear that Israel has a right to self-defence and set out the UK’s grave concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme. He reiterated the need for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution, in the interests of stability in the region.”

Starmer also confirmed the UK did not take part in the strikes but declined to say whether Britain would help Israel if Iran attacks again, as it has before.

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The pair of elegant Salix Flamingo willow trees come in stylish flared black pots

For shoppers looking to spruce up their garden or outdoor space, Gardening Express is offering a pair of ‘fast-growing’ Topiary Trees Salix Flamingo with Planters for half price. Originally costing £79.99, the two’elegant’ willow trees are now £39.99 and come complete with tall flared black pots.

The retailer says the trees ‘give a relaxed feel’, making them ideal for patios and decking areas, as well as framing front and back doors. The stunning white and pink leaves stand out against the green stems that are dotted along the slightly drooped branches.

The topiary leaves will thicken year on year and are approximately 90-120cm in size. Once situated in the accompanying pots, they will stand at around 120-150cm.

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Shopping marketplace Yimbly (owned by the Mirror’s parent company Reach Plc) is also selling Plant in a Box Salix Flamingo Trees. These cost £44.95 for two, however they don’t come with any planters.

For gardeners wanting to add more than two trees to their outdoor space, B&Q is selling four Salix Integra Flamingo Trees for £56.95. This set also doesn’t include pots to plant the trees in.

Topiary Trees Salix Flamingo with Planters

£79.99

£39.99

Buy here

Over 50 Gardening Express customers have reviewed the Topiary Trees Salix Flamingo with Planters to date, awarding them an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of five. One happy shopper wrote: “Absolutely delighted with the trees. Arrived sooner than expected and the delivery chap went the extra mile and carried them round the back for me.

“The trees are very healthy and pretty, and were well packaged. They look fabulous in the fluted pots. Very happy customer, I would happily order from Gardening Express again.”

Someone else commented: “Fantastic, beautiful trees delivered in wonderful condition. They look absolutely magnificent bordering our entrance porch.”

Another said: “The trees arrived in perfect condition. Brilliantly packed and look very stylish in their lovely black pots outside my front door. It’s my first purchase from Gardening Express, but certainly won’t be the last.”