Afternoon Insiders, Max Goldbart here bringing you the latest from around the globe as our friends in America tuck into their turkey. Sign up for the newsletter here.
Red Sea Revs Up
Shifting sands: Red Sea International Film Festival, the big Saudi Arabian film get-together, opens its third edition next Thursday in the port city of Jeddah. The event was launched in the wake of Saudi Arabia lifting of its 35-year cinema ban at the end of 2017, as part of its 2030 Vision plan aimed at moving the economy away from a reliance on oil, and has become an integral part of the country’s ambition to become the leading film and TV hub in the Mena region. But announcements on films and guests have been down to the wire this year, as the event juggles the shifting sands of the global geo-political tensions set in motion by the Israel-Hamas...
Red Sea Revs Up
Shifting sands: Red Sea International Film Festival, the big Saudi Arabian film get-together, opens its third edition next Thursday in the port city of Jeddah. The event was launched in the wake of Saudi Arabia lifting of its 35-year cinema ban at the end of 2017, as part of its 2030 Vision plan aimed at moving the economy away from a reliance on oil, and has become an integral part of the country’s ambition to become the leading film and TV hub in the Mena region. But announcements on films and guests have been down to the wire this year, as the event juggles the shifting sands of the global geo-political tensions set in motion by the Israel-Hamas...
- 11/24/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC is pumping the brakes on Top Gear.
The British public broadcaster announced Tuesday that the veteran car show — which airs Stateside on BBC America and was most recently hosted by Freddie Flintoff, Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris — is being put on “rest” for the foreseeable future.
More from TVLine<em>Doctor Who</em> Sets Release Dates for Trio of Disney+ Specials — Watch Trailer<em>The</em> <em>Crown</em> Creator Peter Morgan Mulling Prequel Series: ‘I Do Have an Idea’La Brea Confirmed to End With Season 3 - Get Final Episode Count
“Given the exceptional circumstances, the BBC has decided to rest the U.
The British public broadcaster announced Tuesday that the veteran car show — which airs Stateside on BBC America and was most recently hosted by Freddie Flintoff, Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris — is being put on “rest” for the foreseeable future.
More from TVLine<em>Doctor Who</em> Sets Release Dates for Trio of Disney+ Specials — Watch Trailer<em>The</em> <em>Crown</em> Creator Peter Morgan Mulling Prequel Series: ‘I Do Have an Idea’La Brea Confirmed to End With Season 3 - Get Final Episode Count
“Given the exceptional circumstances, the BBC has decided to rest the U.
- 11/21/2023
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
Top Gear, which was once among the most profitable crown jewels in the BBC’s programming portfolio and a show that has run for some 46 years, is being put on an extended hiatus.
The British public broadcaster revealed Tuesday that the flagship motoring show would not be returning for the “foreseeable future” and that it had “decided to rest” the series.
The news comes following a high-speed car crash involving host Freddie Flintoff during filming of the show that led to production of the latest season being halted.
The accident — Flintoff’s third on the show — occurred in late 2022 and saw the former cricketer having to be airlifted to a hospital. In October, press reports confirmed that BBC Studios, the commercial arm of the BBC which produces Top Gear, had reached a compensation settlement of 9 million pounds ($11.3 million) for the injuries that Flintoff sustained.
The decision to take the series...
The British public broadcaster revealed Tuesday that the flagship motoring show would not be returning for the “foreseeable future” and that it had “decided to rest” the series.
The news comes following a high-speed car crash involving host Freddie Flintoff during filming of the show that led to production of the latest season being halted.
The accident — Flintoff’s third on the show — occurred in late 2022 and saw the former cricketer having to be airlifted to a hospital. In October, press reports confirmed that BBC Studios, the commercial arm of the BBC which produces Top Gear, had reached a compensation settlement of 9 million pounds ($11.3 million) for the injuries that Flintoff sustained.
The decision to take the series...
- 11/21/2023
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Bond actor Rory Kinnear has joined calls for a revamp to set health and safety in the wake of several high-profile accidents in the film and TV industry.
Rory Kinnear has joined a number of industry figures looking to improve set safety in the film and television industry in an interview with the BBC.
His comments come more than thirty years after his own father, actor Roy Kinnear, was thrown from a horse and killed while filming The Return Of The Musketeers in 1988.
“Thirty years later, things simply haven’t changed,” he said. “You’ve got a lot of young people wanting to enter an industry that they know is perilous, both financially and in terms of work, but not necessarily aware of how perilous the practices on set are as well.
“Now is the time for this opportunity to be taken in terms of understanding that we don’t...
Rory Kinnear has joined a number of industry figures looking to improve set safety in the film and television industry in an interview with the BBC.
His comments come more than thirty years after his own father, actor Roy Kinnear, was thrown from a horse and killed while filming The Return Of The Musketeers in 1988.
“Thirty years later, things simply haven’t changed,” he said. “You’ve got a lot of young people wanting to enter an industry that they know is perilous, both financially and in terms of work, but not necessarily aware of how perilous the practices on set are as well.
“Now is the time for this opportunity to be taken in terms of understanding that we don’t...
- 11/21/2023
- by James Harvey
- Film Stories
Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff has agreed a settlement with BBC Studios after he sustained serious facial injuries in an accident while filming Top Gear last year.
BBC Studios, the BBC’s commercial arm, confirmed the deal on Friday but did not disclose the value of the payout. The Sun reported that it is worth £9M ($11M) to Flintoff.
BBC Studios said: “BBC Studios has reached an agreement with Freddie that we believe supports his continued rehabilitation, return to work and future plans. We have sincerely apologised to Freddie and will continue to support him with his recovery.”
Flintoff was involved in a crash at Top Gear‘s test track at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey on December 13, 2022. He was driving a three-wheeled open-top Morgan Super 3, which flipped over, causing facial injuries and broken ribs, according to reports.
The former England cricket star has since quit the BBC1 show, but has made...
BBC Studios, the BBC’s commercial arm, confirmed the deal on Friday but did not disclose the value of the payout. The Sun reported that it is worth £9M ($11M) to Flintoff.
BBC Studios said: “BBC Studios has reached an agreement with Freddie that we believe supports his continued rehabilitation, return to work and future plans. We have sincerely apologised to Freddie and will continue to support him with his recovery.”
Flintoff was involved in a crash at Top Gear‘s test track at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey on December 13, 2022. He was driving a three-wheeled open-top Morgan Super 3, which flipped over, causing facial injuries and broken ribs, according to reports.
The former England cricket star has since quit the BBC1 show, but has made...
- 10/13/2023
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC has been forced to deny reports that their long-running motoring show Top Gear has been cancelled, following health and safety concerns raised over a serious accident involving one of its presenters.
It was reported Friday that, 10 months after Freddie Flintoff suffered facial injuries and broken ribs in a crash at the show’s dedicated test track in Dunsfold, Surrey, southern England, the broadcaster had advised crew members to look elsewhere for work. The show is one of the BBC’s longest running and most successful.
This weekend, however, a spokesperson said: “A decision on the timing of future Top Gear shows will be made in due course with BBC Content.”
It is understood that an internal review into health and safety measures during production is ongoing.
Flintoff – popular former England cricket captain turned TV personality – was recently filmed speaking publicly for the first time since the crash. He...
It was reported Friday that, 10 months after Freddie Flintoff suffered facial injuries and broken ribs in a crash at the show’s dedicated test track in Dunsfold, Surrey, southern England, the broadcaster had advised crew members to look elsewhere for work. The show is one of the BBC’s longest running and most successful.
This weekend, however, a spokesperson said: “A decision on the timing of future Top Gear shows will be made in due course with BBC Content.”
It is understood that an internal review into health and safety measures during production is ongoing.
Flintoff – popular former England cricket captain turned TV personality – was recently filmed speaking publicly for the first time since the crash. He...
- 10/8/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Top Gear presenter Freddie Flintoff voiced his concerns about safety during filming on the same day as he was injured in a 130mph crash, The Sun newspaper reports.
Former England cricketer Flintoff was badly injured in December 2022 when his open-topped Morgan Super 3 car crashed while filming a segment for the longrunning BBC car show.
The Sun quotes an insider reporting:
“Freddie voiced his worries about the safety of the stunt on set on the day of the accident.
“He questioned whether or not it was Ok, given the vehicle and conditions on the track.
“He was apprehensive before he got behind the wheel and production staff at the track were aware of this.”
Filming was suspended on the 34th series of the show following the accident, and Flintoff has only recently been seen in public, with his facial injuries still visible. He also broke several ribs.
The future of the show,...
Former England cricketer Flintoff was badly injured in December 2022 when his open-topped Morgan Super 3 car crashed while filming a segment for the longrunning BBC car show.
The Sun quotes an insider reporting:
“Freddie voiced his worries about the safety of the stunt on set on the day of the accident.
“He questioned whether or not it was Ok, given the vehicle and conditions on the track.
“He was apprehensive before he got behind the wheel and production staff at the track were aware of this.”
Filming was suspended on the 34th series of the show following the accident, and Flintoff has only recently been seen in public, with his facial injuries still visible. He also broke several ribs.
The future of the show,...
- 9/24/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Top Gear may not be returning to BBC for its 34th season after all. The long-running auto series has likely been cancelled after one of the hosts, Freddie Flintoff, was involved in a crash while filming in December 2022. The accident was the result of a stunt that had gone wrong. Chris Harris and Paddy McGuinness also serve as hosts for the series.
Read More…...
Read More…...
- 9/18/2023
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
The Mail on Sunday newspaper reports that Top Gear, in all likelihood, will not return to screens following a near-fatal crash involving one of its star presenters, Freddie Flintoff. Following the show being put “on hold” in March, the paper claims that the hit show’s production team has been dismantled.
This follows the departure of two key senior creatives from the team – editorial director Clare Pizey and development producer Chris Payne.
The newspaper reports that BBC sources have confirmed there are no plans to develop a fresh series, and plans to broadcast the most recent series 34 have been shelved.
Former England cricketing hero Flintoff received serious injuries to his face and ribs in a car accident back in December 2022. Although Flintoff returned to public life a fortnight ago – photographed practising with the English cricket team – his injuries remained visible, and questions about the BBC’s liability for the accident...
This follows the departure of two key senior creatives from the team – editorial director Clare Pizey and development producer Chris Payne.
The newspaper reports that BBC sources have confirmed there are no plans to develop a fresh series, and plans to broadcast the most recent series 34 have been shelved.
Former England cricketing hero Flintoff received serious injuries to his face and ribs in a car accident back in December 2022. Although Flintoff returned to public life a fortnight ago – photographed practising with the English cricket team – his injuries remained visible, and questions about the BBC’s liability for the accident...
- 9/17/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
I Am Ruth, Bad Sisters, Derry Girls and The Traitors were the top winners at the 2023 BAFTA Television Awards on Sunday.
Kate Winslet won the BAFTA for leading actress for her role in I Am Ruth, which also won for best single drama. Bad Sisters took home the award for best drama series, as well as Anne-Marie Duff received the award for best supporting actress for her portrayal of Grace Williams in the series.
Siobhán McSweeney won the honor for best female performance in a comedy programme for Derry Girls. The show also received the award for best scripted comedy.
In addition, Ben Whishaw won the BAFTA for leading actor for his portrayal of Adam Kay in the autobiographical drama This is Going to Hurt, and Adeel Akhtar won the supporting actor award for his role in the crime drama Sherwood.
The entertainment performance award went to Claudia Winkleman for The Traitors,...
Kate Winslet won the BAFTA for leading actress for her role in I Am Ruth, which also won for best single drama. Bad Sisters took home the award for best drama series, as well as Anne-Marie Duff received the award for best supporting actress for her portrayal of Grace Williams in the series.
Siobhán McSweeney won the honor for best female performance in a comedy programme for Derry Girls. The show also received the award for best scripted comedy.
In addition, Ben Whishaw won the BAFTA for leading actor for his portrayal of Adam Kay in the autobiographical drama This is Going to Hurt, and Adeel Akhtar won the supporting actor award for his role in the crime drama Sherwood.
The entertainment performance award went to Claudia Winkleman for The Traitors,...
- 5/14/2023
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
BBC smash The Traitors has won the BAFTA TV Award for Reality & Constructed Factual.
The Claudia Winkleman-hosted breakout series won in an all-bbc category against Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and We Are Black and British. Presenter Winkleman is also up for Best Entertainment Performance for the show.
The Traitors made a huge splash when it premiered late last year in the UK. Versions of the Dutch original have sold around the world, with some sources saying it has helmed something of a global formats revival. The show features a number of ‘Faithfuls,’ whose job it is to smote out the three ‘Traitors,’ while competing in challenges and adding to a weighty prize fund.
Last year’s Reality and Constructed Factual winner was Gogglebox.
Accepting the award, Winkleman thanked producer Studio Lambert and execs at the BBC for making it happen. Stephen Lambert, who runs Studio Lambert,...
The Claudia Winkleman-hosted breakout series won in an all-bbc category against Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and We Are Black and British. Presenter Winkleman is also up for Best Entertainment Performance for the show.
The Traitors made a huge splash when it premiered late last year in the UK. Versions of the Dutch original have sold around the world, with some sources saying it has helmed something of a global formats revival. The show features a number of ‘Faithfuls,’ whose job it is to smote out the three ‘Traitors,’ while competing in challenges and adding to a weighty prize fund.
Last year’s Reality and Constructed Factual winner was Gogglebox.
Accepting the award, Winkleman thanked producer Studio Lambert and execs at the BBC for making it happen. Stephen Lambert, who runs Studio Lambert,...
- 5/14/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Lesley Manville has suggested she won’t watch her new series because of its violent content.
The Phantom Thread actor opened up about her views on violence in mainstream media in a new interview promoting the action series Citadel.
Citadel which also stars Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, follows a global spy agency who must fight against a powerful syndicate.
As noted in Manville’s interview with The Guardian, the series features a “high-body count” and lots of “blood spatter” – and when asked what she thinks of this, the actor replied: “Oh, I can’t watch violence. I don’t watch any.”
When asked to elaborate, Manville pointed out she had yet to see the final edit of Citadel, but said: “It’s a big topic, really. I hate it, basically. I get offended by it.”
She continued: “I really think it’s bad news. People talk about Game of Thrones.
The Phantom Thread actor opened up about her views on violence in mainstream media in a new interview promoting the action series Citadel.
Citadel which also stars Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, follows a global spy agency who must fight against a powerful syndicate.
As noted in Manville’s interview with The Guardian, the series features a “high-body count” and lots of “blood spatter” – and when asked what she thinks of this, the actor replied: “Oh, I can’t watch violence. I don’t watch any.”
When asked to elaborate, Manville pointed out she had yet to see the final edit of Citadel, but said: “It’s a big topic, really. I hate it, basically. I get offended by it.”
She continued: “I really think it’s bad news. People talk about Game of Thrones.
- 4/24/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
LA Confidential author James Ellroy has ripped the acclaimed film adaptation to pieces.
The writer said he is now free to “disparage” the 1997 crime thriller following director Curtis Hanson’s death in 2016.
Ellroy acknowleged that the movie, which was a box office hit and was nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars, is considered to be high quality by many, but he revealed he does not share these sentimenets.
In fact, he told Los Angeles Times he thinks “it’s turkey of the highest form”.
Ellroy also had harsh words for two of the film’s stars, Russell Crowe and Kim Basinger, whose performances he called “impotent”.
Basinger won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film, which also won Best Screenplay for Hanson and Brian Helgeland.
Hanson previously condemned the adaptation of his 1990 novel in 2016, saying that Hanson “rearranged my world and repopulated it...
The writer said he is now free to “disparage” the 1997 crime thriller following director Curtis Hanson’s death in 2016.
Ellroy acknowleged that the movie, which was a box office hit and was nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars, is considered to be high quality by many, but he revealed he does not share these sentimenets.
In fact, he told Los Angeles Times he thinks “it’s turkey of the highest form”.
Ellroy also had harsh words for two of the film’s stars, Russell Crowe and Kim Basinger, whose performances he called “impotent”.
Basinger won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film, which also won Best Screenplay for Hanson and Brian Helgeland.
Hanson previously condemned the adaptation of his 1990 novel in 2016, saying that Hanson “rearranged my world and repopulated it...
- 4/24/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
Josh Brolin has posed nude to emphasise a point regarding a new project he’s currently filming.
The Avengers: Endgame actor is currently shooting season 2 of TV series Outer Range, in which he plays a Wyoming rancher fighting to keep his land.
Brolin wants fans to know that the new episodes will “take things in a different direction”, and to highlight this, he posted a photo on Instagram showing him wearing no clothes whatsoever – save for a necklace and a cowboy hat.
Outer Range season two had a showrunner overhaul when creator Brian Watkins stepped down following the show’s renewal in October. Charles Murray, whose credits include Sons of Anarchy and Luke Cage, is now overseeing the show.
“Prepping for a scene for Outer Range season 2,” Brolin, 55, captioned the nude photo.
He added: “We are taking things in a different direction now. It’s a shifting world and we...
The Avengers: Endgame actor is currently shooting season 2 of TV series Outer Range, in which he plays a Wyoming rancher fighting to keep his land.
Brolin wants fans to know that the new episodes will “take things in a different direction”, and to highlight this, he posted a photo on Instagram showing him wearing no clothes whatsoever – save for a necklace and a cowboy hat.
Outer Range season two had a showrunner overhaul when creator Brian Watkins stepped down following the show’s renewal in October. Charles Murray, whose credits include Sons of Anarchy and Luke Cage, is now overseeing the show.
“Prepping for a scene for Outer Range season 2,” Brolin, 55, captioned the nude photo.
He added: “We are taking things in a different direction now. It’s a shifting world and we...
- 4/24/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Derren Brown fans have called the illusionist’s latest show “absolutely beautiful” after he dedicated it to his late father.
Showman, which premiered on stage last year and was screened on Channel 4 on Sunday night (23 April), saw Brown, 52, tell numerous anecdotes about his father, who died at the height of the Covid pandemic.
Brown said he felt “guilty” for the fact that he could not give his father a “proper send-off”.
Talking about sentimental items he had found around his father’s house, he said: “It was the weirdest thing because they just suddenly looked like tat, they just looked like stuff you’d find in the back of a junk shop.
“It was like they had no meaning at all, and yet they were so meaningful, they sort of became more and less significant than they had been before. It really struck me that the right sort of...
Showman, which premiered on stage last year and was screened on Channel 4 on Sunday night (23 April), saw Brown, 52, tell numerous anecdotes about his father, who died at the height of the Covid pandemic.
Brown said he felt “guilty” for the fact that he could not give his father a “proper send-off”.
Talking about sentimental items he had found around his father’s house, he said: “It was the weirdest thing because they just suddenly looked like tat, they just looked like stuff you’d find in the back of a junk shop.
“It was like they had no meaning at all, and yet they were so meaningful, they sort of became more and less significant than they had been before. It really struck me that the right sort of...
- 4/24/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Strictly Come Dancing fans are heartbroken following the announcement that Len Goodman has died at age 78.
The former ballroom dancer was the head judge on the BBC One programme from its launch in 2003 until his departure in 2016.
He also served the same role on the American equivalent, Dancing with the Stars, from its 2005 premiere to 2022.
Since the news of Goodman’s death was announced on Monday (24 April), tributes have poured in from fans and friends, including his former Strictly co-worker Craig Revel Horwood.
Across both series, Goodman was highly respected by his colleagues and loved by viewers. Here are se-ven! of his best moments.
“Pickle me walnuts”
Goodman was known for his colourful turns of phrase when describing performances that particularly entertained him.
In 2007, he was particularly moved by a ballroom dance performed by eventual winner (and later judge) Alesha Dixon and professional dancer Matthew Cutler.
“If you don’t get four 10s for that,...
The former ballroom dancer was the head judge on the BBC One programme from its launch in 2003 until his departure in 2016.
He also served the same role on the American equivalent, Dancing with the Stars, from its 2005 premiere to 2022.
Since the news of Goodman’s death was announced on Monday (24 April), tributes have poured in from fans and friends, including his former Strictly co-worker Craig Revel Horwood.
Across both series, Goodman was highly respected by his colleagues and loved by viewers. Here are se-ven! of his best moments.
“Pickle me walnuts”
Goodman was known for his colourful turns of phrase when describing performances that particularly entertained him.
In 2007, he was particularly moved by a ballroom dance performed by eventual winner (and later judge) Alesha Dixon and professional dancer Matthew Cutler.
“If you don’t get four 10s for that,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Ana De Armas has quashed reports that she is being lined up to become the new Wonder Woman.
The 34-year-old actor was asked if she was going to take over the superhero role, as Peter Safran and James Gunn envisage the future of the DC Universe.
“Well, I feel like Gal Gadot is doing a great job,” the Blonde star told Wired in an interview. “I think she should keep doing that.”
In December 2022, after Safran and Gunn took over the DC Universe, Wonder Woman 3 was cancelled.
Gadot had tweeted that she was so excited to share the “next chapter” of Wonder Woman with her fans two days before it was announced that the project wouldn’t be going ahead.
After the reports, Gunn also claimed that Gadot was not “booted” from her Wonder Woman role.
The director responded to a follower on a post in which he accused...
The 34-year-old actor was asked if she was going to take over the superhero role, as Peter Safran and James Gunn envisage the future of the DC Universe.
“Well, I feel like Gal Gadot is doing a great job,” the Blonde star told Wired in an interview. “I think she should keep doing that.”
In December 2022, after Safran and Gunn took over the DC Universe, Wonder Woman 3 was cancelled.
Gadot had tweeted that she was so excited to share the “next chapter” of Wonder Woman with her fans two days before it was announced that the project wouldn’t be going ahead.
After the reports, Gunn also claimed that Gadot was not “booted” from her Wonder Woman role.
The director responded to a follower on a post in which he accused...
- 4/24/2023
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Film
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Len Goodman has died, aged 78.
The dance expert, who served as head judge on the hit BBC series from its launch in 2004 until 2016, had recently been admitted to a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, following a short illness. He is reported to have been diagnosed with bone cancer.
Tributes have poured in for Goodman after his agent announced the star’s death, stating: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78.
“A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
As well as Strictly, Goodman was a judge on Dancing with the Stars, the US version of the competition from 2005 to 2022. He was replaced on Strictly after his 2016 departure by Shirley Ballas.
Tuesday (25 April) would have been Goodman’s 79th birthday.
The Woolwich-born TV personality was an aspiring footballer as a youngster,...
The dance expert, who served as head judge on the hit BBC series from its launch in 2004 until 2016, had recently been admitted to a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, following a short illness. He is reported to have been diagnosed with bone cancer.
Tributes have poured in for Goodman after his agent announced the star’s death, stating: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78.
“A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
As well as Strictly, Goodman was a judge on Dancing with the Stars, the US version of the competition from 2005 to 2022. He was replaced on Strictly after his 2016 departure by Shirley Ballas.
Tuesday (25 April) would have been Goodman’s 79th birthday.
The Woolwich-born TV personality was an aspiring footballer as a youngster,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Susanna Reid has defended her decision to pay for a blue tick on Twitter.
Last week, CEO Elon Musk made good of his promise to strip “legacy” verification status from every user who had not paid for a Twitter Blue subscription.
In their first tweets without a blue tick, many celebrities said they were happy to be free of it as they believe it would be “embarrassing” to pay $8 (£6.44) a month for it.
It was reported that a mere 28 “legacy” verified users signed up for Twitter Blue hours after Elon Musk took away their verified status.
One celebrity who decided to subscribe in order to retain their blue tick was Good Morning Britain presenter Reid, who defended her decision in response to a news story shared online.
Re-sharing a story headlined “Piers Morgan Loses Twitter tick as Susanna Reid and Holly Willoughby pay to keep theirs”, the Gmb host wrote:...
Last week, CEO Elon Musk made good of his promise to strip “legacy” verification status from every user who had not paid for a Twitter Blue subscription.
In their first tweets without a blue tick, many celebrities said they were happy to be free of it as they believe it would be “embarrassing” to pay $8 (£6.44) a month for it.
It was reported that a mere 28 “legacy” verified users signed up for Twitter Blue hours after Elon Musk took away their verified status.
One celebrity who decided to subscribe in order to retain their blue tick was Good Morning Britain presenter Reid, who defended her decision in response to a news story shared online.
Re-sharing a story headlined “Piers Morgan Loses Twitter tick as Susanna Reid and Holly Willoughby pay to keep theirs”, the Gmb host wrote:...
- 4/24/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Matthew Perry says digs towards Keanu Reeves will be dropped from future editions of his best-selling memoir, adding that he will apologise to the actor “if I run into the guy”.
Last year, the 53-year-old Friends star released an autobiography called Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, which included repeated jokes at Reeves’ expense.
Perry twice questioned why other actors die while The Matrix star is still alive.
In the book, Perry comments on the death of River Phoenix, who was a close friend of Reeves before he died of a drug overdose at the age of 23. Perry’s first film, the 1988 movie A Night in the Life of Jimmy Reardon, co-starred Phoenix.
“Why is it that the original thinkers like River Phoenix and Heath Ledger die, but Keanu Reeves still walks among us?” Perry wrote in the book.
He also made a similar dig at Reeves when discussing Chris Farley,...
Last year, the 53-year-old Friends star released an autobiography called Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, which included repeated jokes at Reeves’ expense.
Perry twice questioned why other actors die while The Matrix star is still alive.
In the book, Perry comments on the death of River Phoenix, who was a close friend of Reeves before he died of a drug overdose at the age of 23. Perry’s first film, the 1988 movie A Night in the Life of Jimmy Reardon, co-starred Phoenix.
“Why is it that the original thinkers like River Phoenix and Heath Ledger die, but Keanu Reeves still walks among us?” Perry wrote in the book.
He also made a similar dig at Reeves when discussing Chris Farley,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Film
Kevin Bacon has gone viral with a video he made in protest of the drag bans in the US.
Since the beginning of this year, dozens of bills have been filed in states across America, targeting drag performances.
Tennessee was the first to pass its bill into law last month, barring “adult cabaret performances” on public property or in places where they might be within view of children.
The bill bans “male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to a prurient interest, or similar entertainers”. Violators may face misdemeanor or even felony charges.
Footloose actor Kevin Bacon has become the latest celebrity to speak out on the issue.
On Sunday (23 April), he posted a video of him and his wife, the actor Kyra Sedgwick, dancing to Taylor Swift’s song “Karma” and wearing t-shirts with the slogan “Drag is an art and drag is a right”.
In the caption to the video,...
Since the beginning of this year, dozens of bills have been filed in states across America, targeting drag performances.
Tennessee was the first to pass its bill into law last month, barring “adult cabaret performances” on public property or in places where they might be within view of children.
The bill bans “male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to a prurient interest, or similar entertainers”. Violators may face misdemeanor or even felony charges.
Footloose actor Kevin Bacon has become the latest celebrity to speak out on the issue.
On Sunday (23 April), he posted a video of him and his wife, the actor Kyra Sedgwick, dancing to Taylor Swift’s song “Karma” and wearing t-shirts with the slogan “Drag is an art and drag is a right”.
In the caption to the video,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Emmerdale star Dale Meeks has died aged 47, his family has said.
The actor played Simon Meredith in the ITV soap Emmerdale from 2003-2006. Mr Meeks also starred in Cbbc show Byker Grove and ITV true crime drama The Hunt for Raoul Moat, which aired just last week.
The 47-year-old’s death was announced by a family member in a post on Facebook. His cause of death has not been revealed.
The post read: “So unbelievably sad. Brother in Law, mucca, side kick and just the Best friend a lad could have wished for. Rip Dale Meeks. So much less to laugh about now you’re not there to share it with.
“Thanks everyone for all the beautiful messages and memories you have been sharing. The support of Dale’s friends has been so incredibly strong over these chaotic, heartbreaking final hours, I can only stand in awe.”
Tributes have flooded in for the actor,...
The actor played Simon Meredith in the ITV soap Emmerdale from 2003-2006. Mr Meeks also starred in Cbbc show Byker Grove and ITV true crime drama The Hunt for Raoul Moat, which aired just last week.
The 47-year-old’s death was announced by a family member in a post on Facebook. His cause of death has not been revealed.
The post read: “So unbelievably sad. Brother in Law, mucca, side kick and just the Best friend a lad could have wished for. Rip Dale Meeks. So much less to laugh about now you’re not there to share it with.
“Thanks everyone for all the beautiful messages and memories you have been sharing. The support of Dale’s friends has been so incredibly strong over these chaotic, heartbreaking final hours, I can only stand in awe.”
Tributes have flooded in for the actor,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Martha McHardy
- The Independent - TV
Freddie Flintoff has been spotted in public for the first time since his Top Gear crash.
The former cricketer was photographed with his wife four months after he was involved in an accident while filming an episode ofthe BBC show in December.
Flintoff was spotted wearing sunglasses and a bucket hat sitting in the passenger seat of his car. His wife, Rachel Wools Flintoff, was driving.
The photographs were obtained and published by The Sun.
An onlooker told the publication that the athlete was “reading something on his phone and stayed in the car while Rachael popped into a shop”.
They added: “It was good to see him out and about in public, and apparently doing well after what he has been through.”
Flintoff was airlifted to hospital on 13 December last year after crashing while filming a car review at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome, home of the Top Gear test track.
The former cricketer was photographed with his wife four months after he was involved in an accident while filming an episode ofthe BBC show in December.
Flintoff was spotted wearing sunglasses and a bucket hat sitting in the passenger seat of his car. His wife, Rachel Wools Flintoff, was driving.
The photographs were obtained and published by The Sun.
An onlooker told the publication that the athlete was “reading something on his phone and stayed in the car while Rachael popped into a shop”.
They added: “It was good to see him out and about in public, and apparently doing well after what he has been through.”
Flintoff was airlifted to hospital on 13 December last year after crashing while filming a car review at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome, home of the Top Gear test track.
- 4/23/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Mark Hamill has offered his Star Wars persona to provide familiarity and strength to Ukrainians amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The 71-year-old actor famously starred as the franchise’s lead Jedi, Luke Skywalker, in the original film trilogy and has cameos in the more recent sequels.
Now, Hamill is bringing his character’s iconic voice to Air Alert, a downloadable app linked to Ukraine’s air defence system that sounds air raid sirens and alerts the people of Ukraine of possible incoming Russian missiles, bombs and deadly exploding drones.
“Attention. Air raid alert,” Hamill’s voice says. “Proceed to the nearest shelter.”
He also uses well-known Star Wars quotes: “Don’t be careless. Your overconfidence is your weakness.”
When the dangers from the skies pass, Hamill announces via the app that “the air alert is over.” He then signs off with an uplifting: “May the Force be with you.”
The...
The 71-year-old actor famously starred as the franchise’s lead Jedi, Luke Skywalker, in the original film trilogy and has cameos in the more recent sequels.
Now, Hamill is bringing his character’s iconic voice to Air Alert, a downloadable app linked to Ukraine’s air defence system that sounds air raid sirens and alerts the people of Ukraine of possible incoming Russian missiles, bombs and deadly exploding drones.
“Attention. Air raid alert,” Hamill’s voice says. “Proceed to the nearest shelter.”
He also uses well-known Star Wars quotes: “Don’t be careless. Your overconfidence is your weakness.”
When the dangers from the skies pass, Hamill announces via the app that “the air alert is over.” He then signs off with an uplifting: “May the Force be with you.”
The...
- 3/28/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Film
Kevin McKidd has dispelled rumours that he will be leaving Grey’s Anatomy, even as he’s set to co-lead Itvx’s forthcoming crime drama Six Four.
The 49-year-old Scottish actor has starred as Dr Owen Hunt in the long-running medical drama since season five (2009).
Following Ellen Pompeo’s departure from her titular role as Dr Meredith Grey in the show’s current 19th season, questions about McKidd’s future on the series arose.
However, McKidd – who is now among the show’s few remaining veteran actors – has confirmed that he’s “not going anywhere any time soon”.
“I love playing my character on Grey’s. I love what it’s done for my life and it’s like a family. Truly,” he told RadioTimes.com in a new interview.
“We’ve been there so long, we’ve seen people have babies, get married, have sad things happen in their lives,...
The 49-year-old Scottish actor has starred as Dr Owen Hunt in the long-running medical drama since season five (2009).
Following Ellen Pompeo’s departure from her titular role as Dr Meredith Grey in the show’s current 19th season, questions about McKidd’s future on the series arose.
However, McKidd – who is now among the show’s few remaining veteran actors – has confirmed that he’s “not going anywhere any time soon”.
“I love playing my character on Grey’s. I love what it’s done for my life and it’s like a family. Truly,” he told RadioTimes.com in a new interview.
“We’ve been there so long, we’ve seen people have babies, get married, have sad things happen in their lives,...
- 3/28/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Sir David Jason has described his “delight” after learning that he has a 52-year-old daughter he didn’t know existed.
In a new interview, the Only Fools and Horses star shared his surprise after learning that a brief relationship he had with actor Jennifer Hill in 1970 resulted in the birth of Abi Harris.
Following the revelation, Jason, 82, is said to be building a relationship with Harris – who is also an actor – along with her 10-year-old son Charlie.
Speaking to The Mirror, Jason said that “to say it was a surprise to find out I had a daughter from years ago is an understatement”.
“However, on settling with the news, I am delighted that I am now able to get to know Abi and so we meet up when we can,” he added.
“My wife, Gill, and daughter, Sophie, have been very supportive and understanding and have embraced Abi and welcomed...
In a new interview, the Only Fools and Horses star shared his surprise after learning that a brief relationship he had with actor Jennifer Hill in 1970 resulted in the birth of Abi Harris.
Following the revelation, Jason, 82, is said to be building a relationship with Harris – who is also an actor – along with her 10-year-old son Charlie.
Speaking to The Mirror, Jason said that “to say it was a surprise to find out I had a daughter from years ago is an understatement”.
“However, on settling with the news, I am delighted that I am now able to get to know Abi and so we meet up when we can,” he added.
“My wife, Gill, and daughter, Sophie, have been very supportive and understanding and have embraced Abi and welcomed...
- 3/28/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Wizards of Waverly Place showrunner confirms long-standing fan theory about Selena Gomez’s character
Wizards of Waverly Place showrunner Peter Murrieta, has commented on a long-standing fan rumour regarding the sexuality of Selena Gomez’s character.
Gomez rose to fame on the Disney Channel sitcom about a magical family, which aired from 2007 to 2012.
In 2010, Hayley Kiyoko made a guest appearance as Stevie Nichols, an evil wizard. Throughout the four episodes she was in, fans theorised that there was romantic chemistry between Stevie and Gomez’s character Alex Russo.
Appearing on the Wizards of Waverly Pod recap podcast on Monday (27 March), writer Murrieta confirmed the rumours when asked â.â.if there were any storylines on the show he wished he’d been able to explore further.
“Easy, easy, easy,” Murrietta replied. “I wished we could have played more with what was quite obvious to a lot of us, which was the relationship between Stevie and Alex.”
“We weren’t able to in that time,...
Gomez rose to fame on the Disney Channel sitcom about a magical family, which aired from 2007 to 2012.
In 2010, Hayley Kiyoko made a guest appearance as Stevie Nichols, an evil wizard. Throughout the four episodes she was in, fans theorised that there was romantic chemistry between Stevie and Gomez’s character Alex Russo.
Appearing on the Wizards of Waverly Pod recap podcast on Monday (27 March), writer Murrieta confirmed the rumours when asked â.â.if there were any storylines on the show he wished he’d been able to explore further.
“Easy, easy, easy,” Murrietta replied. “I wished we could have played more with what was quite obvious to a lot of us, which was the relationship between Stevie and Alex.”
“We weren’t able to in that time,...
- 3/28/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Claudia Winkleman has named two moments from The Traitors that made her realise the show was going to be “special”.
The reality competition series began in December 2022 and, despite a slow start, became a ratings hit for the BBC thanks to feverish praise on social media.
Speaking at the 2023 Broadcasting Press Guild Awards in London, host Winkleman said that she knew the show had the potential to catch on thanks to some big moments during filming in Scotland.
“We did not see any of this coming,” she said. “We went to Inverness and made a little show where people couldn’t trust anyone. We were like, ‘Never mind – we had fun.’ And then somethig sort of magic happened and Twitter took over.”
When she was asked when she knew “we were onto something special”, Winkleman replied: “I think probably the first roundtable. So we were up there and the surroundings were beautiful,...
The reality competition series began in December 2022 and, despite a slow start, became a ratings hit for the BBC thanks to feverish praise on social media.
Speaking at the 2023 Broadcasting Press Guild Awards in London, host Winkleman said that she knew the show had the potential to catch on thanks to some big moments during filming in Scotland.
“We did not see any of this coming,” she said. “We went to Inverness and made a little show where people couldn’t trust anyone. We were like, ‘Never mind – we had fun.’ And then somethig sort of magic happened and Twitter took over.”
When she was asked when she knew “we were onto something special”, Winkleman replied: “I think probably the first roundtable. So we were up there and the surroundings were beautiful,...
- 3/28/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
The chief of Cannes Film Festival has questioned Parasite’s Best Picture Oscar win.
Thierry Frémaux is weeks away from unveiling the line-up for the 2023 festival, which is expected to debut Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon and new Indiana Jones film, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.
During an interview discussing the forthcoming edition, Fremaux was asked about the recent Oscars ceremony, which saw Everything Everywhere All at Once win seven awards, including Best Actress for Michelle Yeoh and Best Director for duo Daniel Scheinert and Daniel Kwan.
“I thought the ceremony was very good and I was happy to see Michelle Yeoh rewarded and disappointed that Steven Spielberg wasn’t, because his film is a love letter to cinema,” Frémaux told Variety, referring to the director’s The Fabelmans.
He said he did not “understand” why Triangle of Sadness, Ruben Östlund’s internationally produced Best Picture nominee,...
Thierry Frémaux is weeks away from unveiling the line-up for the 2023 festival, which is expected to debut Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon and new Indiana Jones film, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.
During an interview discussing the forthcoming edition, Fremaux was asked about the recent Oscars ceremony, which saw Everything Everywhere All at Once win seven awards, including Best Actress for Michelle Yeoh and Best Director for duo Daniel Scheinert and Daniel Kwan.
“I thought the ceremony was very good and I was happy to see Michelle Yeoh rewarded and disappointed that Steven Spielberg wasn’t, because his film is a love letter to cinema,” Frémaux told Variety, referring to the director’s The Fabelmans.
He said he did not “understand” why Triangle of Sadness, Ruben Östlund’s internationally produced Best Picture nominee,...
- 3/28/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
Netflix has apparently been served a legal notice over a “derogatory” remark allegedly made about Bollywood star Madhuri Dixit in The Big Bang Theory.
Indian political analyst Mithun Vijay Kumar claimed he has issued a notice to the streaming giant asking it to remove the first episode of season two, in which Kunal Nayyar’s character Raj Koothrapalli and Jim Parsons’s character Sheldon Cooper compare actors Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit.
While having a conversation, Sheldon calls Aishwarya Rai a “poor man’s Madhuri Dixit”.
In response, Raj says: “Aishwarya Rai is a goddess, by comparison, Madhuri Dixit is a leprous prostitute”.
Kumar says that the comments made against Dixit are “offensive and derogatory”.
“As a fan of Madhuri Dixit since childhood, I was deeply disturbed by the dialogue,” he wrote on Twitter. “I found it highly derogatory and offensive towards Indian culture and women.
“So I asked my...
Indian political analyst Mithun Vijay Kumar claimed he has issued a notice to the streaming giant asking it to remove the first episode of season two, in which Kunal Nayyar’s character Raj Koothrapalli and Jim Parsons’s character Sheldon Cooper compare actors Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit.
While having a conversation, Sheldon calls Aishwarya Rai a “poor man’s Madhuri Dixit”.
In response, Raj says: “Aishwarya Rai is a goddess, by comparison, Madhuri Dixit is a leprous prostitute”.
Kumar says that the comments made against Dixit are “offensive and derogatory”.
“As a fan of Madhuri Dixit since childhood, I was deeply disturbed by the dialogue,” he wrote on Twitter. “I found it highly derogatory and offensive towards Indian culture and women.
“So I asked my...
- 3/28/2023
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - TV
Jeremy Clarkson has called on the BBC to “save” Top Gear.
Last week, it was announced that filming will not resume on the current series of Top Gear after presenter Freddie Flintoff was involved in an accident during filming in December.
The former cricketer was airlifted to hospital after crashing while shooting a car review at the show’s test track in Surrey’s Dunsfold Park Aerodrome. You can read more about the accident here.
Writing in his column in The Sun, former host Clarkson said that “Top Gear has to be saved”.
“There will, of course, be an inquiry into the appalling accident that has ended Freddie Flintoff’s spell as a host of Top Gear,” he said, addressing reports that the former England cricketer will now leave the motoring programme for good.
“From what I can gather, it was absolutely horrific and it will take a very long...
Last week, it was announced that filming will not resume on the current series of Top Gear after presenter Freddie Flintoff was involved in an accident during filming in December.
The former cricketer was airlifted to hospital after crashing while shooting a car review at the show’s test track in Surrey’s Dunsfold Park Aerodrome. You can read more about the accident here.
Writing in his column in The Sun, former host Clarkson said that “Top Gear has to be saved”.
“There will, of course, be an inquiry into the appalling accident that has ended Freddie Flintoff’s spell as a host of Top Gear,” he said, addressing reports that the former England cricketer will now leave the motoring programme for good.
“From what I can gather, it was absolutely horrific and it will take a very long...
- 3/28/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Mark Ruffalo has called Jeremy Renner an “inspiration to all” after the actor shared that he is able to walk on a treadmill months after his New Year’s Day accident.
On Sunday (26 March), Renner posted a clip to Twitter in which he can be seen walking.
“I now have to find Other things to occupy my time so my body can recover from my will,” the Hawkeye star wrote, accompanying the post with the hashtags: “#Mindful #Intended #Recovery.”
The following day, Ruffalo retweeted the post, adding: “Amazing. An inspiration to all. #Inspired.”
Ruffalo stars as the Hulk (Aka Bruce Banner) opposite Renner’s Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
In the 15-second video, Renner can be seen on a high-end treadmill. It was shared nearly three months after he broke more than 30 bones and suffered serious injuries following a snowplough accident on New Year’s Day.
During the video,...
On Sunday (26 March), Renner posted a clip to Twitter in which he can be seen walking.
“I now have to find Other things to occupy my time so my body can recover from my will,” the Hawkeye star wrote, accompanying the post with the hashtags: “#Mindful #Intended #Recovery.”
The following day, Ruffalo retweeted the post, adding: “Amazing. An inspiration to all. #Inspired.”
Ruffalo stars as the Hulk (Aka Bruce Banner) opposite Renner’s Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
In the 15-second video, Renner can be seen on a high-end treadmill. It was shared nearly three months after he broke more than 30 bones and suffered serious injuries following a snowplough accident on New Year’s Day.
During the video,...
- 3/28/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - Film
Paddy McGuinness has opened up about the advice shared with him by his Top Gear co-host Freddie Flintoff before taking on his role presenting A Question of Sport.
In 2021, the comedian took over as the host of the BBC quiz show following the controversial departure of long-standing presenter Sue Barker.
Appearing on the Monday Mile podcast with snowboarder Amy Fuller, McGuinness spoke about the “pressure” of the job, which he said he “felt more” than with Top Gear.
“I remember Freddie, when I got the job, he rang me up and he said, ‘Oh God, be careful,’” he recalled, during a hike with Fuller.
“We were talking about how it can be talked about online and stuff. He said he stood in on a sports breakfast show... for a month and he said the abuse he got. He said, ‘I’m an ex-sports person, Ashes and all that, and even I got abuse!
In 2021, the comedian took over as the host of the BBC quiz show following the controversial departure of long-standing presenter Sue Barker.
Appearing on the Monday Mile podcast with snowboarder Amy Fuller, McGuinness spoke about the “pressure” of the job, which he said he “felt more” than with Top Gear.
“I remember Freddie, when I got the job, he rang me up and he said, ‘Oh God, be careful,’” he recalled, during a hike with Fuller.
“We were talking about how it can be talked about online and stuff. He said he stood in on a sports breakfast show... for a month and he said the abuse he got. He said, ‘I’m an ex-sports person, Ashes and all that, and even I got abuse!
- 3/28/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Hilary Duff has said that “everything that could go wrong went wrong” during Neil Patrick Harris’s cameo on How I Met Your Father.
Harris will return as Barney Stinson – the character he starred as during the nine-season run of How I Met Your Mother – on Tuesday (28 March) night’s episode of the spin-off series.
Discussing Harris’s cameo, series star Duff spoke to Entertainment Weekly about working with the Himym alum.
“He had so much to do that day, he had pages and pages of dialogue, and everything that could go wrong went wrong,” Duff recalled.
Listing some incidents that occurred, Duff explained: “Some crew guy got hurt and there was an ambulance, it was pouring down rain, of course on the only night that we had him, and we’re outside, and we’d already shot stuff leading up to this night where it wasn’t raining.
“Thankfully...
Harris will return as Barney Stinson – the character he starred as during the nine-season run of How I Met Your Mother – on Tuesday (28 March) night’s episode of the spin-off series.
Discussing Harris’s cameo, series star Duff spoke to Entertainment Weekly about working with the Himym alum.
“He had so much to do that day, he had pages and pages of dialogue, and everything that could go wrong went wrong,” Duff recalled.
Listing some incidents that occurred, Duff explained: “Some crew guy got hurt and there was an ambulance, it was pouring down rain, of course on the only night that we had him, and we’re outside, and we’d already shot stuff leading up to this night where it wasn’t raining.
“Thankfully...
- 3/27/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Chloe Bailey has responded to critics of her Swarm sex scene, arguing that the entire situation was “blown out of proportion” due to the fact that she’s a woman.
Donald Glover’s new Amazon Prime Video series features a star-studded cast of Bailey, Billie Eilish, Rory Culkin and Dominique Fishback, who plays Dre, an obsessed, Houston-based fan who goes on a murderous rampage over her favourite musician.
Minutes into its debut episode – released on 17 March – Dre’s sister Marissa (Bailey) is shown having sex, which was condemned by some viewers for its explicit nature.
Speaking to radio host Big Boy on a recent episode of his Big Boy’s Neighborhood show, the 27-year-old singer and actor brushed off the backlash, saying: “I’m an actress and I feel like it’s about art.”
“It’s not about seeing me in the mirror of that scene,” Bailey argued. “But I think...
Donald Glover’s new Amazon Prime Video series features a star-studded cast of Bailey, Billie Eilish, Rory Culkin and Dominique Fishback, who plays Dre, an obsessed, Houston-based fan who goes on a murderous rampage over her favourite musician.
Minutes into its debut episode – released on 17 March – Dre’s sister Marissa (Bailey) is shown having sex, which was condemned by some viewers for its explicit nature.
Speaking to radio host Big Boy on a recent episode of his Big Boy’s Neighborhood show, the 27-year-old singer and actor brushed off the backlash, saying: “I’m an actress and I feel like it’s about art.”
“It’s not about seeing me in the mirror of that scene,” Bailey argued. “But I think...
- 3/27/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Paddy McGuinness has opened up about the advice shared with him by his Top Gear co-host Freddie Flintoff before taking on his role presenting A Question of Sport.
In 2021, the comedian took over as the host of the BBC quiz show following the controversial departure of long-standing presenter Sue Barker.
Appearing on the Monday Mile podcast with snowboarder Amy Fuller, McGuinness spoke about the “pressure” of the job, which he said he “felt more” than with Top Gear.
“I remember Freddie, when I got the job, he rang me up and he said, ‘Oh God, be careful’... We were talking about how it can be talked about online and stuff,’” he recalled, during a hike with Fuller.
“He said he stood in on a sports breakfast show... for a month and he said the abuse he got. He said, ‘I’m an ex-sports person, Ashes and all that, and even I got abuse!
In 2021, the comedian took over as the host of the BBC quiz show following the controversial departure of long-standing presenter Sue Barker.
Appearing on the Monday Mile podcast with snowboarder Amy Fuller, McGuinness spoke about the “pressure” of the job, which he said he “felt more” than with Top Gear.
“I remember Freddie, when I got the job, he rang me up and he said, ‘Oh God, be careful’... We were talking about how it can be talked about online and stuff,’” he recalled, during a hike with Fuller.
“He said he stood in on a sports breakfast show... for a month and he said the abuse he got. He said, ‘I’m an ex-sports person, Ashes and all that, and even I got abuse!
- 3/27/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Paul Hollywood branded Gemma Collins’ attempt at a showstopper on The Great Celebrity Bake Off“appalling”.
The Only Way is Essex star was one of the contestants on the Stand Up To Cancer charity edition of Bake Off on Sunday (26 March), where she appeared alongside Jessica Hynes, Tim Key and Aj Odudu.
In the showstopper round, the competitors were asked to recreate the earliest childhood experience they can remember in a choux pastry form, with Collins opting to encapsulate her memory of her mum buying a pair of fluffy mules for her from Woolworths.
Beginning the challenge, the reality star said that she was “putting a lot of effort” into her sculpture, adding: “I’m getting that apron if it kills me.”
After piping “that fluffy mule that changed my life and got me into showbiz”, however, the pastry emerged from the oven flat, while the pistachio and rose ganache was overly wet.
The Only Way is Essex star was one of the contestants on the Stand Up To Cancer charity edition of Bake Off on Sunday (26 March), where she appeared alongside Jessica Hynes, Tim Key and Aj Odudu.
In the showstopper round, the competitors were asked to recreate the earliest childhood experience they can remember in a choux pastry form, with Collins opting to encapsulate her memory of her mum buying a pair of fluffy mules for her from Woolworths.
Beginning the challenge, the reality star said that she was “putting a lot of effort” into her sculpture, adding: “I’m getting that apron if it kills me.”
After piping “that fluffy mule that changed my life and got me into showbiz”, however, the pastry emerged from the oven flat, while the pistachio and rose ganache was overly wet.
- 3/27/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Busy Philipps has poked fun at Gwyneth Paltrow as the actor’s ski accident trial continues.
Paltrow was giving her testimony in court in Park City, Utah, after being accused of crashing into Terry Sanderson on a ski slope in 2016. Paltrow alleges that it was Sanderson who crashed into her.
While on the stand during the trial on Friday (24 March), Paltrow was asked about the “losses” she suffered following the alleged incident. She responded: “Well, we lost half a day of skiing.”
Paltrow’s quote has been widely roasted on social media. One such person who sent up the response was Dawson’s Creek star Philipps.
Sharing a photo on Instagram alongside actor Jen Tullock, Philipps, who was holding up a cocktail, used Paltrow’s quote as the caption.
Others have also poked fun at the quote, with many social media users branding the response “iconic”.
Sanderson, 76, claims that he was...
Paltrow was giving her testimony in court in Park City, Utah, after being accused of crashing into Terry Sanderson on a ski slope in 2016. Paltrow alleges that it was Sanderson who crashed into her.
While on the stand during the trial on Friday (24 March), Paltrow was asked about the “losses” she suffered following the alleged incident. She responded: “Well, we lost half a day of skiing.”
Paltrow’s quote has been widely roasted on social media. One such person who sent up the response was Dawson’s Creek star Philipps.
Sharing a photo on Instagram alongside actor Jen Tullock, Philipps, who was holding up a cocktail, used Paltrow’s quote as the caption.
Others have also poked fun at the quote, with many social media users branding the response “iconic”.
Sanderson, 76, claims that he was...
- 3/27/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
Busy Philipps has poked fun at Gwyneth Paltrow as the actor’s ski accident trial continues.
Paltrow was giving her testimony in court in Park City, Utah, after being accused of crashing into Terry Sanderson on a ski slope in 2016. Paltrow alleges that it was Sanderson who crashed into her.
While on the stand during the trial on Friday (24 March), Paltrow was asked about the “losses” she suffered following the alleged incident. She responded: “Well, we lost half a day of skiing.”
Paltrow’s quote has been widely roasted on social media. One such person who sent up the response was Dawson’s Creek star Philipps.
Sharing a photo on Instagram alongside actor Jen Tullock, Philipps, who was holding up a cocktail, used Paltrow’s quote as the caption.
Others have also poked fun at the quote, with many social media users branding the response “iconic”.
Sanderson, 76, claims that he was...
Paltrow was giving her testimony in court in Park City, Utah, after being accused of crashing into Terry Sanderson on a ski slope in 2016. Paltrow alleges that it was Sanderson who crashed into her.
While on the stand during the trial on Friday (24 March), Paltrow was asked about the “losses” she suffered following the alleged incident. She responded: “Well, we lost half a day of skiing.”
Paltrow’s quote has been widely roasted on social media. One such person who sent up the response was Dawson’s Creek star Philipps.
Sharing a photo on Instagram alongside actor Jen Tullock, Philipps, who was holding up a cocktail, used Paltrow’s quote as the caption.
Others have also poked fun at the quote, with many social media users branding the response “iconic”.
Sanderson, 76, claims that he was...
- 3/27/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Alan Ruck has shared his view on the acting methods of his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong.
Ruck plays Connor Roy in the satirical drama, the older brother to Strong’s Kendall Roy.
Strong is known to use method acting for his role, which involves staying in character outside of the recorded scenes.
Brian Cox, who plays patriarch Logan Roy in the series, has been dismissive of method acting on several occasions. Earlier this month, he waved the practice off as being “American s**t”.
In a new interview, Ruck weighed in on the debate. While he stated that he doesn’t use method acting himself, Ruck was supportive of Strong utilising the tools he prefers to get his optimal performance.
“Every actor is different,” he told Evening Standard. “Sometimes an actor like Jeremy needs to stay in their zone 24/7, or they truly feel like they can’t deliver their best work.
Ruck plays Connor Roy in the satirical drama, the older brother to Strong’s Kendall Roy.
Strong is known to use method acting for his role, which involves staying in character outside of the recorded scenes.
Brian Cox, who plays patriarch Logan Roy in the series, has been dismissive of method acting on several occasions. Earlier this month, he waved the practice off as being “American s**t”.
In a new interview, Ruck weighed in on the debate. While he stated that he doesn’t use method acting himself, Ruck was supportive of Strong utilising the tools he prefers to get his optimal performance.
“Every actor is different,” he told Evening Standard. “Sometimes an actor like Jeremy needs to stay in their zone 24/7, or they truly feel like they can’t deliver their best work.
- 3/27/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Zachary Levi has addressed claims that he “blamed” Dwayne Johnson for Shazam 2’s box office failure.
Last week, the actor shared an article that suggested his fellow DC co-star had “kneecapped” the sequel.
On 21 March, The Wrap published a report claiming that Johnson had vetoed a post-credits scene featuring Levi’s character, which would have served as a marketing boost for Shazam! Fury of the Gods.
Levi posted a screenshot of the article on his Instagram Story, writing: “The truth will set you free.”
He was then accused of blaming Johnson for Fury of the God’s underwhelming box office takings, something he referenced head on during an Instagram Live.
“I may or may not have, you know, reposted something in my Stories about a story that I had nothing to do with that The Wrap had reported on. And then I got flack about it because people were saying ‘Oh,...
Last week, the actor shared an article that suggested his fellow DC co-star had “kneecapped” the sequel.
On 21 March, The Wrap published a report claiming that Johnson had vetoed a post-credits scene featuring Levi’s character, which would have served as a marketing boost for Shazam! Fury of the Gods.
Levi posted a screenshot of the article on his Instagram Story, writing: “The truth will set you free.”
He was then accused of blaming Johnson for Fury of the God’s underwhelming box office takings, something he referenced head on during an Instagram Live.
“I may or may not have, you know, reposted something in my Stories about a story that I had nothing to do with that The Wrap had reported on. And then I got flack about it because people were saying ‘Oh,...
- 3/27/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
Peta has condemned the use of real horses on television show sets after a horse died in rehearsal for The Rings of Power.
The animal was reportedly one of more than 30 on the set of the Lord of the Rings-based programme on the day of its death.
A spokesperson for Amazon Studios shared that the horse died of a cardiac arrest in a statement released on Sunday (26 March).
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a production horse died,” the statement reads.
“The incident took place in the morning whilst the horse was being exercised prior to rehearsals.
“The trainer was not in costume, and filming had yet to commence. Both a veterinarian and a representative of the American Humane Association were present at the time. The independent necropsy has confirmed that the horse died of cardiac failure.”
According to a source comment to Deadline, the horse was standing...
The animal was reportedly one of more than 30 on the set of the Lord of the Rings-based programme on the day of its death.
A spokesperson for Amazon Studios shared that the horse died of a cardiac arrest in a statement released on Sunday (26 March).
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a production horse died,” the statement reads.
“The incident took place in the morning whilst the horse was being exercised prior to rehearsals.
“The trainer was not in costume, and filming had yet to commence. Both a veterinarian and a representative of the American Humane Association were present at the time. The independent necropsy has confirmed that the horse died of cardiac failure.”
According to a source comment to Deadline, the horse was standing...
- 3/27/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
James Gunn has reassured Marvel fans over the running time of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3.
The director, who is now running the show at DC alongside Peter Safran, is currently finishing work on his final film in the Marvel franchise.
In recent days, a rumour regarding the film’s running time has been circulated on social media. Gunn has now stepped in to confirm that the film will be the longest Guardians yet.
While saying it’s not “exact”, Gunn said the film’s length is “around” 149 minutes, or two hours and 29 minutes.
This will make it the longest Guardians of the Galaxy film to date, with the first one, released in 2014, being 122 minutes and Vol 2 (2017) being 137 minutes.
Writing on Twitter, Gunn “promised” fans that “not a second is wasted”.
There’s no fat,” he said, adding: “It was necessary to experience the full arc for every major Guardians character,...
The director, who is now running the show at DC alongside Peter Safran, is currently finishing work on his final film in the Marvel franchise.
In recent days, a rumour regarding the film’s running time has been circulated on social media. Gunn has now stepped in to confirm that the film will be the longest Guardians yet.
While saying it’s not “exact”, Gunn said the film’s length is “around” 149 minutes, or two hours and 29 minutes.
This will make it the longest Guardians of the Galaxy film to date, with the first one, released in 2014, being 122 minutes and Vol 2 (2017) being 137 minutes.
Writing on Twitter, Gunn “promised” fans that “not a second is wasted”.
There’s no fat,” he said, adding: “It was necessary to experience the full arc for every major Guardians character,...
- 3/27/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
Nathan Lane has recalled the moment that Robin Williams “swooped in” to save him from discussing his sexuality on a talk show.
The Modern Family star, 67, shared the heartwarming anecdote during an interview on Sunday Today With Willie Geist.
He and Williams were set to appear on The Oprah Winfrey Show to promote their 1996 LGBTQ+ comedy The Birdcage.
Lane recalled (as per Et Canada) that he felt nervous before the show, telling host Willie Geist: “I said to Robin beforehand… ‘I’m not prepared to discuss, you know, that I’m gay on national television. I’m not ready.”
The actor said that Williams put his mind at ease, before helping him out on stage as well.
“And so then, of course she [Winfrey] was like, ‘How come you’re so good at that girlie stuff? Are you worried about being typecast?’” Lane recalled.
“And then Robin sort of swoops...
The Modern Family star, 67, shared the heartwarming anecdote during an interview on Sunday Today With Willie Geist.
He and Williams were set to appear on The Oprah Winfrey Show to promote their 1996 LGBTQ+ comedy The Birdcage.
Lane recalled (as per Et Canada) that he felt nervous before the show, telling host Willie Geist: “I said to Robin beforehand… ‘I’m not prepared to discuss, you know, that I’m gay on national television. I’m not ready.”
The actor said that Williams put his mind at ease, before helping him out on stage as well.
“And so then, of course she [Winfrey] was like, ‘How come you’re so good at that girlie stuff? Are you worried about being typecast?’” Lane recalled.
“And then Robin sort of swoops...
- 3/27/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Shirley Ballas has hinted that that she may consider leaving Strictly Come Dancing due to the “truly awful” messages she receives from trolls online.
Ballas has been a fixture on the BBC dancing competition since 2017, having been brought on to replace Len Goodman as head judge.
In a recent interview, the 62-year-old said that she reached an “all-time low” during last year’s season due to trolls.
“Last year, I was struggling,” she told The Mirror. “It wasn’t just a little bit, it was a lot – the majority of it was in silence.”
Ballas continued: “I felt the abuse snowballed out of control and impacted me in such a negative way. I’m a pretty stoic person, and I tend to hold everything in.”
She said it was the most negativity she has “ever experienced”. Ballas did, however, commend the “brilliant” BBC for checking in on her reguarly and offering support and counselling.
Ballas has been a fixture on the BBC dancing competition since 2017, having been brought on to replace Len Goodman as head judge.
In a recent interview, the 62-year-old said that she reached an “all-time low” during last year’s season due to trolls.
“Last year, I was struggling,” she told The Mirror. “It wasn’t just a little bit, it was a lot – the majority of it was in silence.”
Ballas continued: “I felt the abuse snowballed out of control and impacted me in such a negative way. I’m a pretty stoic person, and I tend to hold everything in.”
She said it was the most negativity she has “ever experienced”. Ballas did, however, commend the “brilliant” BBC for checking in on her reguarly and offering support and counselling.
- 3/27/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Shirley Ballas has hinted that that she may consider leaving Strictly Come Dancing due to the “truly awful” messages she receives from trolls online.
Ballas has been a fixture on the BBC dancing competition since 2017, having been brought on to replace Len Goodman as head judge.
In a recent interview, the 62-year-old said that she reached an “all-time low” during last year’s season due to trolls.
“Last year, I was struggling,” she told The Mirror. “It wasn’t just a little bit, it was a lot – the majority of it was in silence.”
Ballas continued: “I felt the abuse snowballed out of control and impacted me in such a negative way. I’m a pretty stoic person, and I tend to hold everything in.”
She said it was the most negativity she has “ever experienced”. Ballas did, however, commend the “brilliant” BBC for checking in on her reguarly and offering support and counselling.
Ballas has been a fixture on the BBC dancing competition since 2017, having been brought on to replace Len Goodman as head judge.
In a recent interview, the 62-year-old said that she reached an “all-time low” during last year’s season due to trolls.
“Last year, I was struggling,” she told The Mirror. “It wasn’t just a little bit, it was a lot – the majority of it was in silence.”
Ballas continued: “I felt the abuse snowballed out of control and impacted me in such a negative way. I’m a pretty stoic person, and I tend to hold everything in.”
She said it was the most negativity she has “ever experienced”. Ballas did, however, commend the “brilliant” BBC for checking in on her reguarly and offering support and counselling.
- 3/26/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Good Morning Britain star Ranvir Singh has shrugged off criticism over the age gap between herself and her partner Louis Church.
The ITV anchor has been together with Church for over two years. They met in 2020, with Church serving as a producer on Singh’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.
They have an 18-year age gap. Singh is 45; Church is approximately 27 years old.
The couple have faced criticism over the age gap in their relationship. In a new interview with Woman & Home Magazine, Singh brushed off the comments.
“I don’t see an age gap,” she told the publication, as per Huffington Post.
“What really matters in any kind of relationship in life is a synchronicity of values and emotions. I don’t know why we’re so obsessed with the age gap.
“As we are, right now, we are blissfully happy and Louis lives very much in the present.
The ITV anchor has been together with Church for over two years. They met in 2020, with Church serving as a producer on Singh’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.
They have an 18-year age gap. Singh is 45; Church is approximately 27 years old.
The couple have faced criticism over the age gap in their relationship. In a new interview with Woman & Home Magazine, Singh brushed off the comments.
“I don’t see an age gap,” she told the publication, as per Huffington Post.
“What really matters in any kind of relationship in life is a synchronicity of values and emotions. I don’t know why we’re so obsessed with the age gap.
“As we are, right now, we are blissfully happy and Louis lives very much in the present.
- 3/25/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Lana Del Rey has left fans perplexed and disturbed by one of the interludes on her new album Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd.
The six-time Grammy nominee’s ninth record, released on Friday (24 March), includes “Judah Smith Interlude”, a spoken-word sermon from controversial megachurch pastor Judah Smith.
Soft and ethereal piano instrumentals underlay the nearly five-minute recording, which appears to have been recorded by while Del Rey is in attendance.
Preaching about love, children, marriage and God, Smith warns the congregation against leading a “life dominated by lust”.
“The Spirit of God says, ‘I’ll infuse you with desirеs for what you have and what’s in front of you’.”
Amid Smith’s words, Del Rey can be heard giggling at times and making side comments.
The 44-year-old pastor is famously known for his friendly connections with celebrities, including Justin Bieber. Smith was featured on the popstar’s 2021 EP,...
The six-time Grammy nominee’s ninth record, released on Friday (24 March), includes “Judah Smith Interlude”, a spoken-word sermon from controversial megachurch pastor Judah Smith.
Soft and ethereal piano instrumentals underlay the nearly five-minute recording, which appears to have been recorded by while Del Rey is in attendance.
Preaching about love, children, marriage and God, Smith warns the congregation against leading a “life dominated by lust”.
“The Spirit of God says, ‘I’ll infuse you with desirеs for what you have and what’s in front of you’.”
Amid Smith’s words, Del Rey can be heard giggling at times and making side comments.
The 44-year-old pastor is famously known for his friendly connections with celebrities, including Justin Bieber. Smith was featured on the popstar’s 2021 EP,...
- 3/24/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Music
Keanu Reeves has recalled making some dangerous mistakes while filming John Wick 4.
The Canadian actor, 58, returns to the action film franchise as legendary assassin John Wick, who travels the world to track down the most powerful players in the criminal underworld.
As with all three previous films, the newest, lengthy three-hour instalment includes numerous stunt sequences.
Speaking to ComicBook.com in a new interview, Reeves discussed some of the accidents that occurred on set as a result.
“In terms of accidents: I made a mistake once – I cut a gentleman’s head open,” he said. “So that really f***ing sucked, excuse my language.”
“But other than that – oh, one guy got hit by a car. He was in the car, so he had to go to the hospital, but he was Ok,” Reeves added.
“You do have to take care, but it’s great that everyone [on set] is watching out for each other,...
The Canadian actor, 58, returns to the action film franchise as legendary assassin John Wick, who travels the world to track down the most powerful players in the criminal underworld.
As with all three previous films, the newest, lengthy three-hour instalment includes numerous stunt sequences.
Speaking to ComicBook.com in a new interview, Reeves discussed some of the accidents that occurred on set as a result.
“In terms of accidents: I made a mistake once – I cut a gentleman’s head open,” he said. “So that really f***ing sucked, excuse my language.”
“But other than that – oh, one guy got hit by a car. He was in the car, so he had to go to the hospital, but he was Ok,” Reeves added.
“You do have to take care, but it’s great that everyone [on set] is watching out for each other,...
- 3/24/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Film
Riley Keough has shed light on her “really intense” childhood being raised in the spotlight.
The 33-year-old star of Amazon Prime Video’s newest miniseries Daisy Jones & The Six is the granddaughter of “the King”, Elvis Presley.
“I grew up with a family that was very much in the public eye, and my childhood was really intense in that way, especially in the Nineties and early 2000s,” Keough told Vanity Fair in a new interview.
“It was probably similar to what the Kardashian kids experience now – not being able to go out the front of buildings and having to sneak around,” Keough explained of her childhood.
“Just a lot of attention, not being able to do normal things.” She said it made her “really appreciate normal things in life – being able to go to the coffee shop and sit there”.
Born to Elvis’s only child, the late Lisa Marie Presley,...
The 33-year-old star of Amazon Prime Video’s newest miniseries Daisy Jones & The Six is the granddaughter of “the King”, Elvis Presley.
“I grew up with a family that was very much in the public eye, and my childhood was really intense in that way, especially in the Nineties and early 2000s,” Keough told Vanity Fair in a new interview.
“It was probably similar to what the Kardashian kids experience now – not being able to go out the front of buildings and having to sneak around,” Keough explained of her childhood.
“Just a lot of attention, not being able to do normal things.” She said it made her “really appreciate normal things in life – being able to go to the coffee shop and sit there”.
Born to Elvis’s only child, the late Lisa Marie Presley,...
- 3/24/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
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