Jennifer Lopez reveals dramatic ‘Hollywood blonde’ hair transformation in new movie

JLo stars in new film Kiss of the Spider Woman – co-produced by ex-husband Ben Affleck – sporting striking platinum blonde hair that she admits she ‘didn’t think she could pull off’

We think that Jennifer Lopez could pull off just about any look, but apparently even she wasn’t convinced about her latest transformation.

In her latest role in new movie Kiss of the Spider Woman – for which she was recently seen amicably posing on the red carpet alongside ex-husband Ben Affleck, who co-produced the movie – JLo’s character sports a number of different hairstyles, including an ‘old Hollywood’ style platinum blonde ‘do – a huge change from her usual honey-brown balayage.

Speaking about the look, the 56 year old said in a recent interview with CBS Mornings, “I didn’t think that I was going to be able to [pull it off], but Bill [Condon, writer and director] was adamant that Aurora be a Hollywood blonde. I didn’t know how we were going to be able to do that but we figured it out.”

“It was [jarring at first],” she adds. “I felt like a totally different person. But I got very thin for the role and I wanted to embody what that kind of old Hollywood musical movie star was like.”

The actor and singer also posted some behind-the-scenes shots on her Instagram page showing her blonde hair, captioning the carousel: ‘I will forever cherish my Kiss family. See you this weekend at the theatre!”

The post has accumulated hundreds of comments from fans loving her new look.

“Marilyn Monroe vibes,” wrote one person.

“JLo with her hair blonde for this movie and her facial features reminds me of Gwen Stefani,” wrote another. “They could be twins.”

“Still caught in her web. What a dream creating these three stunning transformations with you,” wrote make-up artist Scott Barnes, who also worked on the movie.

This comes as Jennifer and Ben Affleck joined forces once again recently as they took to the red carpet for the movie’s premiere. The couple’s divorce was finalised last year after two years married, but they appeared to put their differences to one side as they stood side by side at the event in New York.

Ben, 53, was seen smiling as he wrapped his arm around the waist of his ex-wife. The pair looked in good mood as they posed for snaps and enjoyed intimate chat on their first return to a red carpet together since their split.

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The duo had fans jumping for joy when they got back together and tied the knot in July 2022. It came decades after they first got engaged in 2022.

I can’t bank on three years at Man Utd – Amorim

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Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim thinks it is important Sir Jim Ratcliffe went public with his long-term thoughts – but says nothing is certain about tomorrow in football, let alone three years.

In an interview with The Times last week, Ratcliffe said it could take Amorim three years to make a significant impact at Old Trafford.

Coming in a period when Amorim’s future has been under scrutiny following an extended sequence of disappointing results, the comments helped quell some of the immediate pressure.

But, speaking before the 100th meeting with old rivals Liverpool at Anfield, the United boss stressed that the future is hard to predict in football.

“It is really good to hear it but he tells me all the time, sometimes with a message after games – but you know, I know and Jim knows, that football is not like that,” he said.

“The most important thing is the next game. Even with owners, you cannot control the next day in football.”

Chief executive Omar Berrada has admitted it has taken far longer for Amorim to adapt to the Premier League following his move from Sporting last November than anyone imagined.

United have won 10 times in 34 Premier League matches under the 40-year-old. They are yet to win two league games in a row and have not ended a round of league games this season higher than ninth.

The dire statistics are stretching belief in the manager among the United fanbase heading into a sequence of matches their club has been awful in for the past two seasons.

Amorim said he does not feel the uncertainty internally at the club’s Carrington training ground and is adamant nothing can match the pressure he puts on his players – and in some senses, he would prefer Ratcliffe not to be trying to bring a sense of calm because he fears the impact it could have on the team.

“It’s not just a thing that people talk about, I feel it every day,” he said. “It’s really good to hear it because it helps our fans to understand the leadership know it is going to take a while.

“But at the same moment, I don’t like it because it gives a feeling that we have time to work things out. I don’t want that feeling in our club.

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UK Govt In Talks To Reverse Ban On Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans

The UK government’s leadership was holding urgent discussions on Friday to overturn a ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans attending a game at Aston Villa, which Israel’s government characterized as “shameful.”

Villa of Birmingham claimed the club had been informed that no away fans would be permitted at the Europa League game on November 6 due to the Safety Advisory Group (SAG), which is responsible for issuing game certificates.

“Awful choice!” Gideon Saar, the foreign minister of Israel, posted on X in support of this dishonest decision.

As Starmer and the European governing body UEFA’s criticism of the ban mounted, a UK police commissioner requested local officials review the decision.

Starmer, a devoted football fan, described the choice as “wrong.”

“We won’t tolerate antisemitism on our streets,” he declared. Without resorting to intimidation or violence, the police have the responsibility to make sure all football fans can enjoy the game, according to Starmer in X.

Conversations are “happening at a pace across government and with all the relevant groups to find a way to resolve this,” according to a prime minister’s spokesman on Friday.

Lisa Nandy, the British culture secretary, had scheduled meetings with representatives from the interior ministry and other interested parties.

The clubs and authorities were asked to “agree on the implementation of appropriate measures necessary to allow” Maccabi fans to attend, according to UEFA, the organization that runs the Europa League.

The West Midlands area’s police and crime commissioner, Simon Foster, requested that SAG and the police “conduct an immediate review” to determine whether the ban is “appropriate” and “necessary.”

However, a number of independent, left-wing politicians in the UK supported the ban, with some calling for the boycott of international competitions by Israeli teams due to the conflict in Gaza, similar to the apartheid sport in South Africa.

Also read:  Yamil Sets To Return As Wounded Barca Start Clasico Countdown

concerns about public safety

Before West Ham United and Aston Villa play in the English Premier League, police officers patrol the London Stadium on August 17, 2024.

West Midlands Police informed the SAG that they had “public safety concerns outside the stadium bowl and the ability to deal with any potential protests on the night,” according to Villa in a statement on Thursday.

Following a “thorough assessment,” police claimed to have determined the fixture to be “high risk.”

A spokesperson for the West Midlands force said the decision was based on “current intelligence and previous incidents, including violent clashes and hate crimes that occurred during the 2024 UEFA Europa League game between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam.”

Two days of violent clashes between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli fans took place in the match between Dutch side Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in November.

Hit-and-run assaults targeted Israeli team supporters in Amsterdam.

The skirmishes that Maccabi fans chanted anti-Arab songs, vandalized a taxi, and pulled down a Palestinian flag were the climax of.

Emily Damari, a British-Israeli who was held captive for more than a year after being abducted on October 7, 2023, claimed the ban would prevent her from seeing Maccabi, the team she supports.

Despite people’s religion, race, or religion, football is a way to unite people, and this dreadful decision does the opposite, she said in a statement.

Tamir Nahson, a wine importer in Israel and a Maccabi fan, described the situation as “missing opportunity.”

“It’s very painful that [the nation] has turned into the UK for anti-Semitism. It’s very painful, unpleasant for us, and disappointing for Aston Villa fans as well.

The team had traveled to other nations, according to Maccabi Tel Aviv CEO Jack Angelides, who claimed the sentiment was “not so kind toward Israeli teams” but that there had been no incidents.

According to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory, the war has claimed the lives of at least 67 out of 967 people in Gaza. The figures are reliable, according to the UN.

1, 221 people died as a result of Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7 based on official Israeli figures, according to an AFP tally.

Strike: Senate To Intervene In ASUU-FG Dispute

The Senate has said that it will intervene in the industrial dispute between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government.

It expressed concern over the government’s inability to meet ASUU’s demands, describing the situation as unacceptable.

READ ALSO: Improve Funding For Public Universities To End Strikes, ASUU Tells FG

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, Senator Aliyu Dandutse, disclosed after a closed-door session with the leadership of ASUU.

He further noted that the Senate would immediately initiate a negotiation process involving key stakeholders, including ASUU, the Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission (NUC), to chart a path toward a permanent resolution of the crisis.

To address the controversial issue surrounding the University of Abuja land, the committee confirmed that the Senate would also engage with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to find an amicable solution.

“The Senate will interface with the FCT minister on the land matter, and other concerns raised will be carefully studied.
“Appropriate steps will be taken to ensure an amicable and lasting resolution,” it stated.

The committee further urged ASUU to formally submit a comprehensive list of their demands in writing to allow the Senate to assess both immediate and long-term legislative and policy measures needed to address the challenges plaguing the sector.

Demands Unchanged

The union had, during the session, called on the Federal Government to improve funding for public universities.

It warned that sustainable investment in education remained the only path to ending strikes and raising the global ranking of Nigerian universities.

The ASUU President, Chris Piwuna, who spoke on behalf of the union, stated that the ongoing two-week warning strike resulted from longstanding issues that dated as far back as 2011.

“We engaged the Federal Government for eight years without tangible results.

“The Yayale Ahmed Committee report, submitted in December 2024, was ignored until this industrial action began,” Professor Piwuna said.

According to him, the key demands of ASUU, including sustainable funding, improved conditions of service, revitalisation of public universities, and academic autonomy, remain unchanged.

The union also challenged the Senate committee to push the government to increase funding.

“Try us. Push government to fund universities adequately and you’ll see the end of strikes and the improvement of our universities in global rankings,” the ASUU president told the senators.

On funding delays, Piwuna revealed that although the National Assembly approved ₦150 billion for universities, only ₦50 billion had been released so far.

Even that amount, he noted, remains stuck at the Ministry of Education, where the minister allegedly intends to share it among universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, despite separate allocations for those institutions.

He cautioned that the ₦150 billion approved specifically for universities must be used for the intended purpose.

ASUU Cautions Wike

ASUU raised the alarm over attempts by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to allegedly tamper with a portion of the 10,000 hectares of land belonging to the University of Abuja.

It said, “We are worried because the University of Abuja is located in the FCT. Anyone serious about higher education should be focused on developing it.

“If the minister wants land, he should look in the opposite direction.

“The university has over 10,000 hectares of land. Despite repeated calls, the FCT minister continues to show interest in acquiring part of it.

“We appeal to the Senate to intervene and prevail on the minister to leave the university land alone.”

ASUU had last declared a two-week warning strike starting from October 13.

But the government said it had addressed all demands by ASUU and was open to continued negotiation to avert the strike.

M&S shoppers can bag ‘soft to the touch’ trousers that are ‘crease proof’ for £10

Shoppers at Marks & Spencer who want the ideal pair of comfortable pants that can be dressed up or down and are praised as “crease-proof” can now purchase these pants for tenners.

This time of year, we’re all swapping out our wardrobes for staple cosy and comfy pieces that are sure to keep us snug through the chilly months ahead. And it seems M&S is the place to beat, with its warm and chic knits and versatile joggers that have been praised for their styling prowess.

For a reduced price of $35.20, shoppers can now purchase a pair of these Modal Blend Striped Wide Leg Joggers in a chic Ecru shade. These trousers are still available in shades 6 through 22 and are only available in sizes 24 and 24. 5-star reviewers have hailed them as “crease-proof.” Plus, they have a chance to purchase them for just £9.99.

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After the cashback bonus, M&amp, S’s new customers and new TopCashback members can purchase the joggers for £9.99, which is 15% less than their already reduced price of £25.20. Customers must register with TopCashback via this link to profit from the offer.

Whether you’re wearing the joggers outside or in the yard, the soft-touch, lyocell-rich fabric will give you a luxurious feel that’s sure to keep you comfortable. These pants have an elasticated waistband and a drawstring fastening that makes it easy to adjust and feature an improved comfort for a flattering wide-leg fit with added stretch. Additionally, they have side pockets that make it simple to carry your essentials close at hand.

These joggers, which are a part of the M&amp, S Collection, are going to become a wardrobe staple by combining traditional and contemporary styles for any occasion.

These joggers are available in Navy or Ecru, but only those with this offer are eligible for the latter. They have nearly 100 5-star reviews from satisfied customers.

One thrilled customer exclaims, “They are the best clothing I’ve purchased from M&amp, S in a long time.”

Another satisfied customer exclaims, “SO SOFT! Great for use at home or at work. excellent quality

This customer praises the item as being “a joy to wear, comfortable and soft, and fits very well.” Ideal for comfort after knee surgery. can be worn with a blazer, a blazer, etc., or a more casual, versatile piece of clothing.

The softest material, the most comfortable pants I’ve bought in a long time, says a fourth phrase. “!

One customer does express regret, saying, “I may have to return these, which is unfortunate, but the fit is worse than my other M&amp, S trousers.”

However, this buyer continues to sing “Love these joggers” and “Love these joggers.” sufficient to endure. The material is so soft to the touch but almost crease-proof. Wish they had been discontinued. Despite the fact that they may have shorter customers, they do note.

Another customer gushes, “These bottoms are so comfortable you can dress up or down.”

The viral Flex High Waisted Pocket Wide Leg Waffle Work Trousers from Halara are available for $ 28.95 in a wide range of shades for an alternative jogger that can be easily added to your workwear collection. Next is also selling these Mocha Brown Active Modal Supersoft Wide Leg Trousers for $ 34.

For $72, Skims has these Cotton Jersey Straight Leg Pants in a variety of shades.

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How can you purchase the M&amp, S joggers for $9.99?

    Use this link to register for free at TopCashback as a new member.

  • Search for M&amp, S on the website, then click through to purchase the item as is. When you spend at least £15, you receive £15 in cashback.
  • Within seven days of purchase, the cashback will be posted to the “Earnings page” of TopCashback.

James Martin says ‘I wish I had more time’ as he opens up on family loss

TV chef James Martin has opened up about his family life and shared a heartbreaking confession as he revealed the one person he wishes he could be more like

TV chef James Martin has made a touching revelation as he reflected on his deep affection for a beloved family member who has passed away.

For years, James has cemented his position as one of Britain’s most esteemed chefs, but in an intimate glimpse into his personal life, he revealed how a crucial life lesson has propelled his professional success.

Speaking recently on the Road To Success with Benedict Fowler podcast, James discussed his late grandmother and expressed his desire to emulate her qualities, explaining: “It sounds daft talking about your granny, but if I could be 10% of what my granny is, I’d be 110% a better person (than I am now).”

Expressing his deep respect for his grandmother, he noted that the only individual who matched her presence was the late Queen Elizabeth in terms of her dignified manner, stating: “My granny, it sounds daft, but my granny was the same (as Queen Elizabeth), because she’d walk into a room and I don’t know if it was how I was brought up, but you were told respect and you shut up and listen. And I valued that so much.”

Additionally, he made a poignant admission as he continued: “I wish I had more time to ask more questions. But I wasn’t old enough at the time to fully understand it. Now you realise you should have asked more questions.”

Nevertheless, beyond revealing this heartfelt family tribute, James has witnessed his career flourish throughout the years, featuring across numerous television programmes.

Starting his professional career in France, one of his first roles was at the three-Michelin-star restaurant Maison Troisgros in Roanne, France.

He later returned to the UK, taking up a position as a pastry chef at Chewton Glen Hotel.

However, despite honing his craft in high-end restaurants, he is most recognised for his television career, with his first on-screen role in 1996 appearing on a variety of shows, including James Martin: Yorkshire’s Finest, Ready Steady Cook, and The Big Breakfast.

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Since then, he has become a familiar face in British households, with his latest TV endeavour being his own ITV cookery show, James Martin’s Saturday Morning.

Each week, he welcomes celebrities into his Hampshire home, showcasing his culinary prowess.