Category Entertainment News

Kavana was a huge pop star in the 90s, but the singer ended up battling a drink and drugs addiction and has been open about his battle to come back from the brink in a new book

Nineties pop sensation Kavana has told how he once drank AFTERSHAVE at the height of his drink and drugs addiction. The 47 year old star, has openly documented his battles in an autobiography that lifts the lid on his days of fame – and the horrors that followed.

The I Can Make You Feel Good singer, whose real name is Anthony Kavanagh, was just 20 years old when he stormed the charts with his Top 10 1997 smash hit, which was succeeded by MFEO (Made For Each Other) and Crazy Chance. He subsequently featured in E4’s Hollyoaks: In The City in 2006 and competed on the reality television programme Grease Is the Word in 2007, where he finished as runner-up.

In 2014 he tried out for ITV’s talent competition The Voice, but didn’t make it beyond the audition stage, with no judges turning for him in their chairs. He also secured seventh place in the 2015 series of Celebrity Big Brother.

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But few people knew of Kavana’s personal battles, which have been laid bare in his tell-all autobiography, Pop Scars. The singer’s self-deprecating book also relates how his nose bled in front of Boyzone’s Ronan Keating after snorting cocaine. And how he was slapped with a lifetime ban from ITV’s Loose Women after turning up drunk and quizzing one of the hosts on her sex life.

The singer, who revealed he was gay in 2014, also confesses to a secret romance with the late Boyzone vocalist, Stephen Gately.

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And the tale of how he came to be drinking aftershave comes in a chapter about preparing to attend his first AA meeting but is craving alcohol. He remembers: “There’s a cabinet I haven’t checked yet, which I open to reveal quite the selection, from Tom Ford to Dior, but each one has a spray nozzle on top which is pointless. Then at the far back I see a half empty bottle of Joop, no spray attached and totally drinkable.”

He continues: “I wait for a second, imagining how this would look in a movie: the tragic alcoholic downing aftershave in a posh LA bathroom. I laugh at my reflection, what a joke, except the punchline is my life. The taste is beyond description, like someone’s melted a plastic Christmas tree with battery acid and marzipan. I immediately gag, my body repulsed against yet another foreign liquid, but I force it down.”

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But despite Kavana’s troubles, he finally chose to transform his life during the summer of 2023. Posting images captured over an 18-month period, he appeared dramatically transformed from his lowest point and expressed gratitude for seeking assistance.

Now he looks a picture of heath, continuing to post on his Instagram page to his 13,000 followers. Alongside one recent image of him brushing his teeth, he said: “Just wanted to capture the miracle of me waking up fresh on a Sunday morning and doing a live radio interview at 8.30 a.m. Three years ago at this time I’d be on my way to the off license and I must remind myself of these things and be grateful.”

Fans rushed to support him, with one saying: “Looking fresh, well done, you have done amazing.” Another commented: “You look great Kav, you are smashing this….keep going and enjoy every moment.” And a third added: “Wahooooo! Count all the wins.”

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The new Tesco dress has gone viral on TikTok, with shoppers calling it the “dress of the season”

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Tesco shoppers are heaping praise on a “pretty” new dress they’ve spotted online. The retailer’s F&F clothing line is well known for its affordable and fashionable outfits, accessories and more – and there might just be a new favourite in stock.

The F&F Edit Sequin Mini Dress in Cream has been shared widely on social media, with many shoppers keen to snap it up. The dress is priced at £36 and is available online and in store.

TikTok user @shoppingwithemma shared a clip showcasing the dress. The video was captioned: “The dress of the season. Best believe 2 of these went in my basket for my bestie and I. Run don’t walk to Tesco!!”

The clip proved popular, racking up views and likes. Beneath the post, one happy shopper said: “oow that’s pretty.” A second wrote: “Can’t wait to match.”

Another user, @ky.x.o, captioned their video: “I’m speechless. How is this @F&F Clothing??? Absolutely stunning.” A different TikToker, @kimberleyr069, also shared a video of the dress, with writing over the clip reading: “New in Tesco F&F sequin dress.”

The video racked up 67.7k views, more than 1,200 likes and a number of comments from interested shoppers. One person said: “With black tights and a patent heel.”

A second wrote: “omg” and a third commented: “Love this.” A fourth happy shopper said: “This is so cute for a Christmas party.” Another wrote: “So pretty.”

The dress is currently available to buy on the Tesco website. The product is part of the F&F Edit, which is a “collection of must-have items for the season”, according to the retailer.

Tesco’s full product description reads: “Get heads turning in this sequin mini dress, designed with velour straps for extra style points. The fitted silhouette and textured finish make it a standout choice for evening events. Wear with an oversized clutch, statement jewellery and block heels for a cute and chic party-ready outfit.”

Today’s horoscope for Saturday, October 11 will see Leo address domestic issues, while Aquarius should set some time aside for relaxation

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It’s Saturday, and one star sign will be itching to set off on an adventure, while another should try not to let their temper take over.

There are 12 zodiac signs – Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces – and the horoscopes for each can give you the lowdown on what your future holds, be it in work, your love life, your friends and family or more.

These daily forecasts have been compiled by astrologer Russell Grant, who has been reading star signs for over 50 years. From Aries through to Pisces, here’s what today could bring for your horoscope – and what you can do to be prepared.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

You aren’t in the mood for anything too busy, noisy or boisterous. A need to withdraw will keep you out of the spotlight. You might even think that skipping events you already committed to would be better than attending and not really enjoying them.

Taurus (Apr 21 – May 21)

Professional advice offered by an experienced executive will prove valuable when dealing with financial and legal matters. Domestic projects come with their challenges but they will also provide plenty of amusing stories to share with your friends and family.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

If someone seems argumentative as the day begins, count to ten and try not to let your temper take over. As the day progresses, your confidence will build and by the time evening arrives you will find nothing anyone says or does can shake the belief you have in yourself.

Cancer (June 22 – July 23)

If you have no plans to travel, you might suddenly feel as if you need something to look forward to. Book a holiday and give yourself something exciting to talk about. If you have just come back from a trip you might already be itching to set off on another adventure.

Leo (July 24 – Aug 23)

You are ready to address domestic issues that have caused problems in the past and you will do this in a thoughtful and practical way. You don’t mind having to tackle issues that need resolution for this is sure to make things easier in the future.

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

Don’t hold back from stepping into the spotlight. You could be working in a group where your skills and knowledge can really make a difference. People around you are eager to follow your lead and respect your practical decisions.

Libra (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

If you find yourself facing something that makes you feel uneasy and anxious, take a deep breath and take it one step at a time. Stay organised and calm and you will notice your nervousness fading as you realise you can handle it. You are doing great.

Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

You can’t keep going without a break. Everyone needs to relax at some time and for you, that time has come. Your mind and body crave rest and relaxation and this weekend, you should prioritise these above all else.

Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

You are taking on too much at once and you know it. Just think about how this is affecting your health. Let some responsibilities wait if you feel exhausted and low on energy. There is really no harm and in fact it will do you a lot of good to prioritise your own needs today.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

When someone proposes a new idea, your initial reaction might be to dismiss it. Remember that your first instincts can sometimes be misleading so try to keep an open mind. Set aside some time today to tackle tasks around the house or in the garden.

Aquarius (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Even if you do have a lot on your plate it’s still important that you should set some time aside for relaxation even just a few minutes at a time. Opportunities in your community provide a chance for you to help those who are less fortunate. This helps you gain a broader perspective on life.

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

If you’re confused or uncertain about a legal or financial issue it makes a lot of sense to consult a professional. Missing documents could be crucial to understanding your current situation. An older relative, too, could provide some valuable assistance.

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Olivia and Alex Bowen – the first Love Island couple to marry – spoke out following their vanishing twin syndrome ordeal, which saw the tragic loss of one of their babies

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Love Island’s Olivia Bowen has described how she “felt numb” after losing one of her twins.

The reality TV star, who tied the knot with Alex in 2018 in what was the first Love Island marriage, endured vanishing twin syndrome (VTS), a miscarriage which causes a pregnancy involving twins to become a pregnancy involving one embryo. She went on to give birth to Sienna last month, albeit having lost the other baby.

Speaking for the first time about the tragedy, Olivia, 31, said: “I felt numb at the start then I needed to talk. But I try not to take anything negative from it any more – we’re lucky to still have Siena here.

“We went for the eight-week scan and as soon as she showed us my belly, you could see there was no heartbeat and no movement from one of them. I couldn’t look at Alex because I knew he’d be heartbroken. It was such a shock because there’d been no signs.”

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VTS affects up to 15-35% of twin pregnancies, research suggests. Olivia, from Chelmsford, Essex, experienced an otherwise healthy pregnancy until the crushing news earlier this year.

Recalling the ordeal, Alex, 34, said this week: “It (grief) always hits me really hard straight away. I took myself off to the bathroom to cry (upon being told the news) because I could see how much pain she was in.” When Alex learned he was going to be a dad to twins, he described the moment as the “most amazing feeling”.

READ MORE: Olivia Bowen emotional and ‘grateful’ as she prepares for birth of her second child

Olivia, who met Alex on the second series of Love Island in 2015, was admitted for an emergency caesarean section. The reality TV star lost lost 2.8 litres of blood as she gave birth to Sienna, their second child after son Abel was born in June 2022.

Speaking in the new interview with the Daily Mail, Olivia continued: “I lost 2.8 litres of blood. We didn’t know what was going to happen but we got here safely in the end. You realise what you’ve got and what matters. You realise how fragile everything is.”

The couple say the grief has brought them stronger, nearly ten years after meeting on the ITV programme. Alex arrived on day 18 as “a bombshell” and Olivia coupled up with him two days later, with them going on to finish as runners-up on the show.

Meghan Markle, who is the Duchess of Sussex, came under fire this week after travelling to Europe for the first time in more two years – to attend Paris Fashion Week

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Meghan Markle has fought back after critics blasted her for visiting Paris – a city believed to be subject of a “blanket ban” as it is where Diana, Princess of Wales died.

The Duchess of Sussex, 44, was filmed on her way back from the Balenciaga after-show party amid Paris Fashion Week using the same route Diana was driven moments before her tragic crash in August 1997. She is seen with her feet up on the chair in the car, just moments from the Pont d’Alma tunnel.

Meghan faced criticism for the “insensitive” clip, although it was also claimed she was unaware the infamous tunnel was on the route. Other insiders are particularly shocked because both Meghan and Harry have turned down numerous invitations to attend events in Paris over recent years, thought to be because of the city’s association with his mother.

Yet, Meghan attended Paris Fashion Week, where she was greeted with kisses by the European style pack as well as former Vogue editor-in-chief Dame Anna Wintour. It is thought this appearance was part of what has been dubbed the “Establishment plot” – called “Project Thaw” because it is reportedly designed to “warm up” the Duke’s and Duchess’s frosty relationships with the rest of the Royal Family and with the British people.

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But a source told the Daily Mail Harry, 41, would consistently make it clear that he would not go to Paris, because of his mother. The same source added: “Meghan would explain when asked: ‘I cannot go to Paris because of H’s mom.'”

After the footage taken in the car emerged, one friend of Harry’s told the publication: “She’s driving around in that city where his mother died. She knows exactly what she is doing.”

However, following the furore, Meghan has now spoken out, stressing she went to the fashion event because of her huge admiration for Pierpaolo Piccioli, one of the industry’s new kings.

“Over the years, the Duchess has worn a number of designs by Pierpaolo. They have worked closely together, collaborating on design for key moments on the world stage,” the duchess said.

“She has long admired his craftsmanship and modern elegance, and tonight was no different. This evening reflects the culmination of many years of artistry and friendship, reflected in her support for his new creative chapter at Balenciaga.”

Victoria Beckham has revealed that her youngest son didn’t have enough money on his card to buy a Big Mac and was kicked out of a McDonalds as a result

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Victoria Beckham has revealed that her son Cruz had to go hungry at a McDonalds after he couldn’t afford to buy a Big Mac. While the star could have paid for her son’s meal, she doesn’t want to spoil her children, and he got “turned away”.

The former Spice Girl turned fashion star and her husband, David, have four children together – Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper Seven. When their children were growing up, the pair did their best not to spoil them. As such, when Cruz couldn’t afford a McDonalds burger, they didn’t swoop in to help.

Victoria explained: “Cruz got turned away from McDonald’s recently. He got turned away from McDonald’s because he didn’t have enough money on his card.”

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As part of a interview with The Sun ahead of the release of her new documentary, Victoria opened up about her parenting style. She also shared that communication is really important to her. “The way we’ve brought up our kids is all about communication.

“It’s good to talk. As a family, we try to have dinner together every night – it’s phones down and ‘What has everyone done today?’ Just making sure that it’s a safe forum for everybody to be honest and talk and laugh.”

But, despite efforts to communicate, the relationship between Victoria and her eldest son, Brooklyn, seems to have broken down and the two are reported to be no longer speaking. Brooklyn has snubbed many major Beckham events this year, including the premiere of his mother’s documentary. He also did not invite any of his family to his vow renewal.

In addition to this, even though Victoria has tried to make sure her children are aware of their privilege and do not rely on their parents for help, the Beckham children, particularly Brooklyn, have been accused of being nepo babies.

However, Victoria has hit back at those claims, especially concerning her son Cruz. The youngest of the Beckham boys has embarked on a music career and even though his mother found fame as a musician, she says she did not, and could not, help him.

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“I mean I can’t really give him any advice — the industry has changed so much,” she told The Sun. “But I told him, ‘Don’t expect immediate success’. It’s almost better if it isn’t an immediate success.”

She added that he has spent “ten years learning his craft”. ““Cruz has got music coming out soon. He’s spent the last ten years learning his craft — much like I did with Roland — learning to play instruments. He taught himself to play about seven instruments. He writes his own songs, he’s put a band together. He’s properly done it from the grass roots up. He hasn’t just come in and sung his songs, or demanded anything.”

Victoria is not the only celebrity to try to prevent their children from growing up entitled. TV chef Gordon Ramsay has said he refuses to pay for his kids to fly first class. “I do not want them sat there with a 10 course f**king menu with champagne. I am not embarrassed. It is my wife and I’s choice to discipline them and to keep them real.”