Category Entertainment News

Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas shared a message this morning after previously revealing that she often receives ‘personal’ comments when the show is about the return

A message for fans has been shared by Shirley Ballas ahead of Strictly Come Dancing returning. She has encouraged people to “be kind” to one another after having previously dealt with trolls on social media during past series.

Shirley, 65, will be back as a judge on the BBC show when it returns later this month, with the new series scheduled to launch next week. She will reunite with Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood and Anton Du Beke on the panel.

Ahead of the upcoming launch, Shirley has warned fans to be “careful” how they treat other people. She also encouraged her followers to “be kind” in the post, which was uploaded to the dancer’s Instagram Story this morning.

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Shirley shared a photo of actor Tom Hiddleston that had a caption with it. Seemingly written by someone else, it read: “The most expensive liquid in the world is a tear. It’s 1% water and 99% feelings. Think before you hurt someone.”

Sharing her thoughts on that post, Shirley then encouraged her followers to “be kind” to other people. She wrote above the photo and its caption in her post earlier today: “Be careful what you throw towards other people. Be kind.”

Her message comes ahead of Strictly returning next week. The new series is scheduled to launch on September 20, with the line-up of contestants including Love Island winner Dani Dyer and EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal.

Shirley has faced trolling and comments about her appearance in previous years, and has previously said that the messages she receives start to “get personal” as the show returns each year. Last year, she reacted to someone who suggested that she consider having “warts” removed from her face.

As reported by OK! magazine, she responded in August last year, shortly before the new series began. Shirley wrote: “And so it begins lol. Just for one’s information, I love my little bump on my chin I was born with it. It’s not a wart. Can always tell when [Strictly] is about to start, the messages get personal.”

Shirley even announced that she would be taking a break from work over the Christmas period in 2022 as a result of trolling. As reported at the time, she told S magazine in an interview: “It’s the first time I’ve taken any time off – ever! I’m taking two and a half weeks off, because of the immense amount of trolling I got throughout this series.”

She said: “I decided I wouldn’t do panto this year. Last time I did it, I got a letter hand-delivered to the theatre that was very off-putting.” She added: “So I’m going to take some time off and just get myself together for the new year.”

Speaking to the Mirror just months prior, she said: “The names I’ve been called, I couldn’t even repeat them to you.” She added at the time that she is “fine” with being criticised for her judging but finds personal comments to be “cruel”.

She said: “You just want to do the best job for the people watching. And when it’s not reciprocated and they say I didn’t agree with your mark, you sent the wrong person home, I’m fine with that. But when it gets personal then I think that’s cruel.”

BBC listeners were less than impressed after a number of popular local radio programmes were axed and replaced with new shows in the various stations’ schedules

BBC fans were furious after it was revealed that a number of shows are being permanently replaced in a huge shake-up. Huge specialist music programmes on BBC Radio stations are coming to an end and being replaced with a new programme.

The classic Sunday afternoon slots on the 39 local radio stations is being replaced with The Make A Difference Show, which started on September 14. The programme will air from 2pm to 6pm on the stations that aren’t on live sports. A presenter has yet to be revealed for the show.

Other shows dropped from their slots include John Leech’s Soul Show. The programme aired on BBC’s Eastern stations.

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Simon Logan’s 80s and 90s show on BBC Radio Newcastle and Tees also ended, with the presenter telling listeners: “What is it they always say, all great things must come to an end.

“Whether you’ve ever got in touch with the show or whether you have just listened to our show, thanks to everybody on our Facebook group, thanks to Nathan for ‘putting it on the list.

“I couldn’t have done it without you, mate. The time has come to say farewell, seriously, thanks for being there. We’ve had a blast, haven’t we? Hope to catch you really soon. “And whatever you’re doing tonight, always stay forever young. Ta-Ra”.

BBC Merseyside and BBC Cumbria’s 80s and 90s programme, presented by host Lisa Marrey, also ended over the weekend.

Paula White’s programme aired across five stations and Sile Sibanda’s music and conversation programme aired on BBC Radio Sheffield, BBC Radio York and BBC Radio Leeds.

Fans are furious with the changes, with many taking to X/Twitter to complain about the loss of local programmes. One user said: “The end of BBC Local Radio.

“What is next, any daily programme after 1400 will be scrapped for a national show ?. BBC management have destroyed Local Radio and TV.”

Another added: “Instead of wasting money on Radio 1 Dance, Anthems & Radio 3 Unwind they should put money back into LOCAL Radio, stations should have at least 12 hours a day of local programming!”

“Pushing it even more to be the complete end of BBC local radio. Why don’t they just rebroadcast Radio 5 & be done with it,” one commented.

Another unimpressed listener commented: “I miss my Sunday afternoon listening on BBC local radio, a shame they took an axe to it all.”

“BBC Local Radio bosses don’t care Tim Davie doesn’t care But it’s ’our BBC,” one said with a yawning emoji.

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Molly-Mae Hague loved this lip mask so much it was one of the first things she packed in her hospital bag, and its just launched in a new flavour that’s pairs perfectly with GBBO

When parents are busy packing their hospital bags ready for going into labour, there’s probably a few things that top the list of essentials. However for Molly-Mae Hague, one of those essentials was her £22 Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, which she packed to keep her lips ultra hydrated throughout labour.

Whilst Molly-Mae has shared that her favourite flavour of the lip mask is vanilla, it comes in multiple other scents, including the recently launched Strawberry Shortcake. Timed perfectly to coincide with the return of the UK’s favourite wholesome baking show, The Great British Bake Off, the cake-flavoured lip mask is the brands first three tier Lip Sleeping Mask with notes of vanilla cake, strawberry cream and fresh berry.

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Just like the other scents, the new Strawberry Shortcake Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is packed with ultra hydrating ingredients that nourish, plump moisturise your lips. It has an innovative moisture wrap technology which creates a protective film over your lips, locking in moisture and all the active ingredients.

It includes a berry mix complex of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry and blueberry extracts which all provide antioxidant protection, whilst the shea butter helps soften and condition them. The mask is ideal for this time of the year when weather gets colder and winds get harsher, which usually leads to dry, sore and cracked lips.

However you just need to apply the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask before bed using the applicator (which is included with the mask) and leave it to work its magic overnight. You can also apply a light layer during the day if your lips are feeling particularly dry and chapped.

There are other brands that offer similar ultra-hydrating masks for your pout, including Byoma’s Liptide Lip Mask for £10 which has a built-in applicator so you can easily apply on the go. The £20 Fenty Skin Plush Puddin’ Intensive Recovery Lip Mask is also handy to throw in your handbag, with a twist mechanism that lets you apply it quickly and easily.

Elsewhere Tatcha’s The Kissu Lip Mask is £27 and contains the brand’s signature hydrating and moisturising ingredients that make it an ultra-nourishing treat for your lips. Finally, bargain hunters might want to snap up E.l.f’s Holy Hydration! Lip Mask for just £8, which has a similar formula and applicator to the Laneige one, although doesn’t offer the same range of flavours.

However if you want a choice of flavours you can pick from seven different Laneige Lip Sleeping Masks at LookFantastic for £22 each. The Strawberry Shortcake version currently only has one review, but it’s a five star one saying: “I’m a big fan of the lip masks and have had several scents over the years, but the strawberry shortcake layered one is my favourite; it smells divine and looks good enough to eat. They really seem to hydrate and soften my lips and stay put for a decent time. My number 1 lip product.”

A body language expert has revealed how Harry’s arrival in London has sparked a ‘game of chess’ between Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex and his elder brother, Prince William

Prince Harry has touched down in the UK ahead of his appearance at tonight’s WellChild Awards, making a rare trip to his home country after years of estrangement from the royal family.

While Harry went to Windsor to pay his respects to the late Queen on the anniversary of her passing, Prince William and Kate were at an engagement of their own, also honouring Queen Elizabeth three years after her death in 2022.

With the warring brothers seemingly determined to avoid each other, a body language expert has decoded what their stacked calendars really mean. Meanwhile, rumours are still flying that Harry could well reunite with his father, King Charles, while in the UK this week.

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Judi James told the Mirror that by both Harry and William busying themselves mere moments after the Duke of Sussex arrived in London, it seems they are both intent on keeping themselves preoccupied so as not to run into each other.

She said: “Harry’s arrival in the UK seems to have triggered a game of royal chess, with characters moving around the board to avoid being check-mated by the rogue royal on his flying visit.”

Speaking of Harry’s not-so-secret trip to St George’s Chapel, Judi added: “We’ve already seen Harry on a ring doorbell looking like a fan of the impromptu drop-in, and William’s outing to Sunningdale might have left one (future) queen alone and socially vulnerable if a request for afternoon tea was made.”

The body language expert went on to speculate that by Princess Kate joining Prince William at the last minute for his trip to Sunningdale, she has armed herself with an excuse on the off chance that Harry would try to see his sister-in-law.

She said: “Kate and Harry used to be so close, and whereas a ‘Sorry I’m up in Sunningdale’ response might be neutral and polite enough, being at home but turning him down could make Kate risk being made to look like the bad guy when Harry reported back to the US.”

“There’s a huge difference in being unavailable and appearing to actively shun someone, and the movements of the royals today suggest they are very mindful of the dangers of the ‘Harry effect’ on their own image and popularity.”

While William and Kate have been marking the anniversary of the late Queen in their own way, Judi believes that such an event may not stop Harry from spinning his own story about why his family have chosen not to see him.

“Harry has many excuses to play the victim here if he so chooses, especially if it is made to look as though his close family members turned their backs on him while he was busy supporting his charities,” she said.

“There have already been headlines implying he would be keen for some sort of reunion, and if doors were being literally shut in his face, it could risk making the Firm look cruel and cold in the eyes of the rest of the world if the story was spun that way.”

A hairdresser with experience of working alongside cancer patients has encouraged royal watchers to be kind, as cruel comments over Catherine, Princess of Wales’ recent blonde look spark outrage

Catherine, Princess of Wales, is best known for her dedication to her royal duties, but in recent times, it’s her hair that’s been the focus of conversation.

After returning from the Royal family’s traditional summer break, the future queen showed off notably lighter locks during a visit to London’s Natural History Museum, of which she is a patron. This blonde look took a number of fans by surprise, with Kate’s glossy chestnut mane having always been one of her most distinctive physical features.

Then, while cheering on England’s Red Roses at the Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium on Saturday, royal watchers noted that Kate had opted for an elegant yet relaxed hairstyle, with tresses pieced back away from her face.

Although the 43-year-old received plenty of compliments on her fresh new look, she’s also faced some cruel criticism from online trolls. Notably, today Kate was back to sporting her classic brunette locks, and some believe the sudden switch was due to insensitive comments at a time when the princess is still navigating life after a cancer diagnosis.

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Now, a hairdresser with experience of working with those who’ve had cancer has spoken with the Mirror about why such comments are particularly insensitive, given Kate’s medical history.

Harriet Kessie-Cudjoe, who founded the London-based salon Afrotherapy, told the Mirror: “As hairdressers, we see and hear on a daily basis how deeply connected hair is to identity and confidence. In fact, I tell my team all the time. ‘Every haircut tells a story’, emphasising the need to listen and empathise.

“For many clients, hair is not just about style. It’s a huge part of how they express themselves and how they’re seen by the world. When someone experiences cancer-related hair loss, it can feel like losing a part of themselves, and that can understandably have a huge impact on self-esteem.

“I saw this first-hand with my own sister, who experienced hair loss and eventually lost her battle with cancer. I have also seen it and supported many of my own clients through this difficult time.

“This is why it’s so important for the wider public to show kindness and sensitivity. Comments about appearance, even if meant lightly, can feel incredibly painful for someone navigating treatment and all the changes that come with it.”

Advising how people can instead show support for loved ones living with or in remission from cancer, Harriet shared: “In terms of support, one of the most valuable things loved ones can do is to listen and let the person guide the conversation. Some may want to talk about wigs, headscarves, or scalp care, while others may not want to focus on their hair at all.

“Practical care like helping to source a wig specialist, recommending gentle scalp treatments, or even booking in for a pampering head massage can make a real difference. For clients, I always encourage focusing on scalp health and comfort first.

“Using soothing, fragrance-free products and keeping the scalp moisturised can help with irritation or dryness during treatment. If they feel ready, exploring wigs, hairpieces, or protective styles can offer a sense of normality and control. But equally, embracing headscarves or going without can be just as empowering.

“Above all, it’s about reassurance. Hair often grows back after treatment, but in the meantime, making someone feel beautiful, cared for, and supported in whichever way they choose is the most important thing.”

Taking to social media, Sam McKnight, the hairstylist of the former Princess of Wales, Princess Diana, previously issued a strongly worded statement in defence of the mum of three, urging people to show more empathy. Sam wrote: “I am shocked, horrified, dismayed and disgusted by all the nasty comments about the Princess of Wales today. A woman’s hair is very personal to her; it’s armour, defence, confidence, and so much more.

“I cannot believe how evil and lacking in any kind of empathy are the comments, the majority made apparently by other women, attacking a vulnerable other young woman, who has no choice, by dint of who she married, and the role she took on, to bravely face the public.”

He continued: “She has brilliantly and quietly, unselfishly represented our country, the soft power we still have as a nation. Cancer affects individuals differently, but it is life-changing for everyone. So FFS LEAVE HER ALONE. SHAME ON YOU.”

The mother-of-three publicly announced that she had been diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer in 2024. For a number of months, the princess took a step back from the spotlight to focus on a course of preventative chemotherapy, while issuing well-wishers with regular updates.

In September of that same year, Kate announced that she was cancer-free after completing her course of chemotherapy, to the relief of those who had followed her progress.

However, Kate has previously spoken candidly about how her ordeal continues to affect her life. While meeting with fellow patients at a cancer wellbeing centre at Colchester Hospital in July of this year, Kate reflected that, all too often, after finishing treatment, patients are expected to “crack on, get back to normal”, even if this just isn’t possible.

Speaking from personal experience, Kate shared: “There is a whole phase when you finish your treatment, everybody expects you to be better – go! But that’s not the case at all.”

She continued: “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment. Treatment’s done, then it’s like ’I can crack on, get back to normal’, but actually the phase afterwards is really difficult.

“You’re not necessarily under the clinical team any longer, but you’re not able to function normally at home as you perhaps once used to.

“And actually someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you through that sort of phase that comes after treatment, I think is really valuable. You have to find your new normal and that takes time.”

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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Prince Harry charmed children by indulging in a playful sword fight with a balloon at the WellChild Awards in London, just hours after touching down in his home country for the first time since April.

The Duke of Sussex arrived at the Royal Lancaster Hotel for the event dressed in a dapper suit as he prepares to give a speech during the awards ceremony on their 20th anniversary.

After posing for a photo opportunity with the Vice Chairman of WellChild, Harry met with some of the children who will be receiving awards during the ceremony. The Duke of Sussex spent time with numerous young kids, giving each of them special attention.

In one adorable moment shared to WellChild’s Instagram stories, Prince Harry met with a young girl named Gwen, who showed off her fancy trainers to the royal before engaging in a balloon sword fight.

Nine-year-old Gwen also gave Harry gifts for his own children, Archie and Lilibet. Gwen gave the Duke of Sussex two gift bags that each contained a purple football jersey, belonging to Brighton Hove & Albion team, with his children’s names and ages on them.

Harry told the young girl that the thoughtful gifts were “so good” and that he “loves them”, and can’t wait to pass them on to his own kids, who have remained in California with Meghan Markle while Harry journeyed to the UK.

Prince Harry also spoke with six-year-old Esmee, who will receive an award during the ceremony, as she inspected the Duke’s polka dot tie.

The Duke of Sussex also spoke to numerous parents and carers before the award ceremony kicked off, praising their courage and strength.

To celebrate 20 years of the WellChild awards, winners from previous years were invited back. Prince Harry met with those who had previously been honoured and recalled the years he presented them with awards.

His appearance at the awards comes just hours after Harry touched down the UK and travelled to the late Queen’s tomb in the King George VI Memorial Chapel within Windsor Castle’s St George’s Chapel, a spokesperson for the Sussexes said. He laid a wreath and flowers and privately paid his respects.

Just miles away his estranged brother Prince William and his wife the Princess of Wales also remembered the late Queen on the third anniversary of her death. They visited the National Federation of Women’s Institute (WI), in Sunningdale, just eight miles from Windsor Castle, which holds a special connection to the late Queen.

Harry attendance at the WellChild Awards in London comes in his role as the charity’s patron, a position he has held for more than 15 years.

There has been speculation about whether the duke will see his father the King, who is receiving ongoing cancer treatment and was in Scotland at the weekend.

The visit follows a recent meeting dubbed ‘peace talks’ by senior aides to Charles and Harry, in what was reported to be a step towards restoring the relationship between the duke and the royal family.

The WellChild awards, which celebrate the achievements and resilience of seriously ill youngsters and their families, are being staged exactly three years since the late Queen, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, died peacefully at Balmoral in Scotland on September 8 aged 96, after reigning for 70 years.

During the event, Harry will make a speech, meet and talk to seriously ill children and their families and present an award to an “inspirational child” aged between four and six. The duke has attended the awards 14 times before and has held the role of the charity’s patron for 17 years.

The charity brands itself as the national UK children’s charity “making it possible for children and young people with complex medical needs to thrive at home instead of hospital, wherever possible”.

In a statement ahead of the visit, Harry said: “For 20 years these awards have highlighted the courage of young people living with complex health needs and shone a light on the devoted caregivers – family and professionals – who support them every step of the way. Their stories remind us of the power of compassion, connection and community.”