Carol Vorderman has been branded “deluded” and faced a barrage of complaints after she took a dig at the People’s Channel when unleashing a rather damning verdict about Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s future in Number 10.

The TV presenter, who gleefully celebrated Labour’s election win last year, claimed Mr Starmer doesn’t have a future as leader of the country and cited GB News and “right-wing newspapers” as contributing factors as to why.

 

In a discussion with author Carole Cadwalladr, Ms Vorderman’s assessment began: “You know, we’re looking ahead to the next election. Again, boo me, please. Keir Starmer — this is my prediction — Keir Starmer will never be voted in as Prime Minister again.

“There’ll either have to be a change of leader if you want another Labour government, or he’ll lose. I just cannot see a situation where he would be -”

Ms Cadwalladr then cut in to ask: “If you were going to give one message to this government, to conference — you’re here, you’ve got a platform — what would you want to say?”

“Get your PR better, for a start,” Ms Vorderman replied. “I mean, it’s just appalling.”

However, she went on to claim that Labour’s so-called “bad PR” was supposedly being exacerbated by media outlets like GB News.

She said: “And I do understand that they’re fighting a tide of right-wing newspapers, I get that, I really do understand that. And a channel like GB News, which… where’s Ofcom, frankly?”

Keir Starmer and Labour Party members are currently attending their 2025 annual Party Conference in Liverpool

Continuing her tirade, her complaints kept coming: “I’ve worked in media for so many years, and the Ofcom regulations are really bl**dy strict. But apparently they’re out of the window now.

“I don’t even know who the chair of Ofcom is, and they need… we need to have some system that is back in place.”

While Ms Vorderman couldn’t resist moaning about media outlets she may not agree with, she did also reel off a handful of examples where Labour has failed in the eyes of the public due to its own conduct.

“But Labour… it was like the winter fuel allowance… I’m coming up to a pensionable age — I don’t have a problem, because I would not need that. So I didn’t have a problem with means-testing it in principle, but it was the level.

 

“It’s like, who on earth thought that was a good idea? To go from 12 million pensioners receiving it to, what was it, 1.5 million? Who thought that was a good idea? It’s nuts. They have to completely change all of that.

“And then we had ‘Freebie-gate,’ then we had… all this Morgan McSweeney (stuff), who I wouldn’t know if I fell over him; he could even be in the audience.

“And the three-quarters of a million pounds that allegedly was not declared in some election campaign — or I don’t think it was Keir Starmer, was it a leadership election?

“It’s like, I thought the Tories were scum, right? I thought they were the most corrupt party that we could ever have. And I wanted Labour to come in and for there to be none of these stories.

“But we’ve had minister after minister, the [Peter] Mandelson thing. It was a disgrace. He had to resign twice when it was the [Tony] Blair government, and then under Gordon Brown, he was brought back. What on earth is going on? So I felt very let down by that.”

Footage of Ms Vorderman’s rant has since gone viral online, with social media users from all areas of the political spectrum keen to share their reactions to her seeming U-turn on the PM.

And it’s safe to say many felt her attack on the People’s Channel and other media outlets didn’t exactly go down well, given Mr Starmer’s performance in Downing Street.

“‘Where’s Ofcom? How dare there be a TV channel saying things I disagree with’,” one X user mocked in response to the clip, while a second echoed: “She blames GB News for the government being totally incompetent!!!!”

Rachel Reeves also spoke at the Labour Party Conference this week

A third also pulled no punches as they critiqued: “Where is Ofcom – seriously – I know you’re old now but have you forgotten about the BBC… What a shame!”

“But you’ve got BBC1, BBC2, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, Sky…all of them left-wing populist channels,” a fourth pointed out before a fifth added: “Where’s Ofcom on the biased BBC? Woke, lefty, champagne socialist.”

And a sixth also jumped to GB News’ defence, arguing: “Moaning about GB News, what about BBC and Sky?”

Elsewhere, other social media users blasted her U-turn on Labour. “So when the Tories do it, they’re ‘scum’. But when Labour do it, she feels let down, but they can still turn it around,” one X user blasted, before a second weighed in: “Better PR? How about not creating the headlines in the first place? Vorderman was a cheerleader for this shambles of a government, and no one should forget that. Least of all her.”

 

However, Ms Vorderman did also receive praise from some who agreed with her views. “Agree with every word,” one person argued.

“She is right. They have terrible messaging,” a second weighed into the debate before a third agreed: “Completely agree with her about the pm. Labour voter for 30 years and union member for about 10. If he’s still there come the next election, I’ll vote for someone else for the first time. I personally know lots like me. I can’t back him again.” (sic)

The BBC has found itself on the receiving end of some rather frustrated complaints following an interview with Rachel Reeves on Monday morning’s Breakfast.

The Chancellor had plenty to discuss during her appearance on the show, including potential changes to VAT at the next Budget, as well as proposals to guarantee work placements for young people who’ve been unemployed for 18 months.

Labour’s tumultuous first 14 months in government were, as ever, also a talking point, with Ms Reeves staunchly standing by her party’s conduct, despite polling suggesting Prime Minister Keir Starmer is the least popular PM on record.

Keen to hear more about the imminent Budget, Ms Nugent kicked things off on Monday with the simple probe: “Can you tell us what the situation is going to be with VAT? What might happen?”

Ms Reeves replied: “Well, we made a commitment in our manifesto, and those commitments do stand, and they stand for a reason.

“Because in the last Parliament, it was ordinary working people who bore the brunt of the economic mismanagement, whether it was increases in interest rates or increases in prices in the shops.

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“And that’s why I’m determined, as we grow the economy — and we have had the fastest growing economy in the G7, wages are rising faster than prices now – of course, there’s more to do, but that’s why we’ve made those commitments: to protect working people so they’ve got more money in their pockets.

“And I know that the cost-of-living challenges continue to bite and continue to be very real for many families right across our country, and that’s why those commitments stand,” she continued, before Ms Nugent eventually chipped in: “So Chancellor, you’re saying no rise in VAT?”

Ms Reeves repeated: “Well, we made those commitments for a reason, and those commitments stand. And judge me on my record: I had a Budget last year, and people said, ‘Oh, she’s not going to be able to honour those manifesto commitments’, but we did.

“I had to make some difficult decisions, I protected the pay packets of working people, and we did not put up the prices in the shops. That’s very important to me, because I do recognise, still, that the biggest challenge for families in all parts of the UK is the cost of living.

“And, you know, we have made progress in this first year. If someone had said 15 months ago, that in the first 15 months of this Labour government, you’ll have the fastest growing economy in the G7, five cuts to interest rates, wages rising faster than the cost of living, those increases in the national living wage and the national minimum wage — I think people would have said, that’s not possible.

“But we did all of that, without increasing the key taxes that working people pay, and that’s why I stand by those commitments that I made in the manifesto. Because I am absolutely determined that, unlike the last Parliament, at the end of this Parliament, working people are going to feel, in their bank balances, in their pockets, that they are better off.”

Rather than challenge Ms Reeves on the “difficult decisions” she’s taken that have resulted in such declines in the polls, Ms Nugent moved to ask about Labour’s pledge to get young people into work.

“They could be in the retail sector, they could be in our cultural industries, they could be in government,” Ms Reeves explained. “There’s a whole range of jobs, and we’ve seen a welcoming of this from business organisations today, often who do struggle to recruit the young people with the skills they need, who do complain often that young people are not putting themselves forward for work, and that’s why we are making this offer.”

She continued: “We will work with businesses, but today, one in eight young people are not in education, employment or training. That is not acceptable. It’s bad for them, it’s bad for businesses, and it’s bad for taxpayers.”

Ms Nugent did have a follow-up question in this instance: “What happens if the job that the young person is offered isn’t something they want to do and they turn it down?”

Ms Reeves answered, unchallenged: “Well, it’s always been the case that benefits are not an alternative to work. Benefits are there if there’s no work available, and this is not any different from that.

“So if there is a job available, if there are training places available, then you’ve got to take those up. I want a system based on contribution and on reciprocity. You put something in, and when you need support, that support is there for you, whether that is an NHS free at the point of need, or a welfare state, or a skills system that is there to provide the training.

“But we can’t have a system — we must never have a system — that benefits are some alternative to work. That is not acceptable. It’s not, frankly, affordable.”

Later, Ms Reeves was asked to reflect on her time as Chancellor over the past 14 months and the verdict she would give herself.

“What I’d say is I’ve been Chancellor now for 451 days, and they’ve been difficult days. Some of them have been very public, but I wouldn’t swap them for any of the 5,000 days that I spent in opposition before that, because every one of those 451 days has been an opportunity to change our country for the better,” she replied.

“Whether it is the youth guarantee to help young people to get into work, those libraries in primary schools to ensure that all children get a good start in life, free breakfast clubs extending free school meals, reducing NHS waiting lists by 200,000, increasing the national living wage and the national minimum wage, building more homes so that first-time buyers and families can have a say in the housing market, I’m really proud of all these things.

“Has it been easy? No. I didn’t go into this thinking it was going to be easy. I’m really proud of what we’ve done. I’m the first to admit there’s more to do.

“We’re 15 months into this government, and as the first Labour Chancellor in 14 years and the first female Chancellor in 800 years, I am genuinely loving this job and the chance to serve, because that’s what I came into this for, just the chance to serve and make our country a bit better off.”

Clips of Ms Nugent and Ms Reeves’ interview have quickly been shared far and wide on social media, and it’s safe to say many watching at home have been left unimpressed with the way the Chancellor was able to reel off her answers without any form of robust scrutiny.

Ms Nugent came under particular fire by some watching at home, including one X user who hit out: “Jeez. Her record is appalling. This interview was like being mauled by a kitten. Has the BBC lost its teeth? @TVNaga01 would have challenged the c**p she came out with.”

“You’re not answering the question, you’re going back to your manifesto, which is hard to read anyway, each question? Sally, go after her, get my answer!!” a second pleaded.

Elsewhere, a third fumed: “Stop asking her questions about what’s in the budget. You know she’s not going to tell you. Please ask better questions, Sally.”

“Tried to watch @RachelReevesMP on @BBCBreakfast without gagging. To sum up, ‘difficult decisions, working people, the rest of you can curl up & die’. Tepid interviewing from Sally Nugent,” a fourth criticised.

A fifth echoed: “@BBCNews @BBCBreakfast we note Rachael Reeves is not only personally delusional but that you, Sally, a self-named ‘journalist’, seem unable to pull her up on any of her disingenuous propaganda or blatant mis-truths.”

And a sixth let loose: “They never answer the simple questions like what happens if they don’t take the work. Instead, we get politician waffle for the next minute.”
However, some argued that Ms Nugent had been too strong in her questioning and phrasing towards the Chancellor.

Arguing against the backlash to the interview, another X user weighed in: “Sally Nugent to Rachel Reeves: ‘You’ve had a horrible year’. That was subtle, Sally NOT.

“We endured 14 horrible years of Tory. Aided and abetted by TORY-run BBC! We’ve had more than enough of your bias. #bbcbreakfast.” (sic)

 

Josh Hartnett rushed to hospital with injuries after SUV crashes into police car

Pearl Harbour actor Josh Hartnett was taken to hospital with injuries after the SUV he was travelling in collided

Actor Josh Hartnett has been hospitalised after the SUV he was travelling in collided with a police vehicle in Newfoundland.

The incident happened shortly after 1am on Thursday, 25 September, at the junction of New Cove Road and Elizabeth Avenue in St John’s. CBC News reported the 47-year-old was a passenger at the time of the crash.

Police confirmed the SUV, driven by a 59-year-old man whose identity has not been released, was struck by a Royal Newfoundland Constabulary patrol car. The force later said: “As a precaution, one of our officers was also transported to hospital.”

Hartnett, his driver, and the officer involved were all assessed for minor injuries. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage. Investigators have appealed for witnesses and urged anyone with video footage to contact them.

At the time of the accident, Hartnett was returning from the set of a Netflix production currently filming in Newfoundland. The drama, referred to locally as the “untitled Netflix Newfoundland series,” features a large ensemble including Mackenzie Davis, Charlie Heaton, Natasha Henstridge, Ruby Stokes, Joshua Close and Rohan Campbell.

Hartnett, born in Saint Paul, Minnesota, gained fame in the late 1990s with roles in The Faculty and Halloween H20. His career accelerated in 2001 when he starred in Michael Bay’s Pearl Harbor and Ridley Scott’s Black Hawk Down.

By his mid-20s, he was one of Hollywood’s most recognisable young stars, appearing on magazine covers and leading major studio releases such as Lucky Number Slevin.

In later years, Hartnett stepped away from big-budget projects, focusing on independent film and television. He earned critical praise for Showtime’s gothic horror series Penny Dreadful and appeared in Guy Ritchie’s Wrath of Man.

Josh also stated he left Hollywood to try to preserve his “sanity”. In a candid chat with Julia Stiles, the popular actor spilled the beans, saying: “I never really lived in LA. Even when we were making ‘O’, I was in Minnesota, New York, nowhere, because I was living from set to set.”

Josh has starred in huge movies in his career including Black Hawk Down
“I drove my car down from Minnesota to shoot ‘O’ and then drove back after that. But the choice to step back from the industry had more to do with just plain sanity.”

The lure of fame and the risk of losing touch with his “community” were concerns that weighed heavily on Josh’s mind. He also admitted that the allure of fame didn’t bring him the “satisfaction” he craved.

Now settled in the UK with his wife Tamsin Egerton, Josh reflected: “I wanted to be myself amongst people that I knew, so I was able to revert back to my family and friends in Minnesota.”

He concluded with a reflection on his quest for fulfilment, admitting that after a certain amount of time chasing a goal, he grew to realise that achieving these things wasn’t going to give him back the satisfaction he was craving and had hoped for. Instead, he realised he needed something else to “fill that gap” and confessed that “community” is what fills this for him.

“Achievement is great in any walk of life,” he said. “It’s a reason to get up in the morning. But the thing that really holds you is your community. I felt that I was kind of rootless at that time, so I wanted to find that community.”

More recently, Josh played a key role in Christopher Nolan’s Oscar-winning Oppenheimer. The ongoing Netflix project marks another significant return to screen work for the actor, who has increasingly balanced mainstream roles with smaller productions.

Police enquiries into the Newfoundland crash remain active.

UNBELIEVABLE: Piers Morgan makes STATEMENT CRITICIZING Prince Harry over health, sparking OUTRAGE

Piers Morgan has launched a fresh attack on Prince Harry, branding him “bonkers” and saying he should be worried about “men in white suits” rather than the Palace aides he blames for sabotaging his relationship with King Charles. The broadcaster shared a front page headline that read: “Harry: Men in grey suits are sabotaging my reunion with my father.” He then fired back with a brutal swipe, suggesting the Duke was mentally unstable. “I think it’s men in white suits he should worry about more.. he seems to be going bonkers.”

The “men in white suits” jibe could be a veiled dig at Harry’s mental health. The phrase is an old-school colloquialism for psychiatrists and mental health workers, the kind who traditionally wore white coats. And Piers’ words left little doubt that he was casting Harry as mentally unstable. According to the Daily Mail, Harry had recently reignited his row with Buckingham Palace officials, accusing so-called “men in grey suits” of trying to block his reconciliation with King Charles.

The Duke believes aides have deliberately undermined him, echoing the attacks once made by his mother, Princess Diana, who also complained of shadowy courtiers she derided as “the men in grey suits.” Insiders reportedly said Harry is “infuriated” by what he sees as a coordinated campaign to scupper his peace talks.

“The relationship between the Duke and His Majesty The King is a matter for the two of them and the two of them only,” a source close to the Duke told the publication. “The men in grey suits should stay out of it.”

The row erupted after reports last weekend suggested Palace aides were quietly working on plans to stage a show of unity between father and son. Sources said Harry could be gradually reintroduced into public life in Britain, though not as a working royal.

Harry is understood to have met his father for 50 minutes at Clarence House earlier this month – their first face-to-face meeting in 18 months.

Yet The Sun later claimed the encounter was “distinctly formal,” with Harry allegedly describing it as “very official, like an official visit.”

However, the Duke’s spokesman issued a stinging statement, saying: “Recent reporting of the Duke’s view of the tone of the meeting is categorically false.

“The quotes attributed to him are pure invention fed, one can only assume, by sources intent on sabotaging any reconciliation between father and son.”

Morgan’s intervention has poured more fuel on the fire and divided opinion among fans. One supporter of the outspoken TV host commented: “Superb, I think some men in white suits should be on standby.”

But another hit back fiercely: “Piers Morgan diagnosing ‘bonkers’ is rich coming from a man who’s been foaming at the mouth over Meghan Markle for half a decade like she personally stole his lunch money.

“The only men in white coats we’re waiting for are the ones dragging you off Twitter before you overdose on royal gossip and your own bitterness.”

Shirley Ballas was once again accused of displaying a biased attitude towards certain professional dancers as the new series of Strictly Come Dancing kicked off on Saturday night.

In recent years, viewers have claimed Ms Ballas, 65, seems to be particularly critical of particular stars, namely Katya Jones and Nadiya Bychkova, and following Ms Jones’ highly-praised routine alongside actor Lewis Cope, the same claims from fans flew in.

 

The pair performed a lively jive, with Mr Cope, 30, applauded by both the judging panel and fans watching from home.

Most of the judges had only positive things to say about the energetic performance, but Ms Ballas, who has faced social media trolling in the last couple of years during the show thanks to accusations of being unfair, was more critical, specifically of Ms Jones’ choreography.

After commenting on the fast-paced and action-packed routine, host Tess Daly kicked off the judging comments by asking Craig Revel Horwood: “Did you get a good view of that jive, Craig?”

Mr Revel Horwood is typically the strict judge with plenty to say, but he simply smiled as he commented: “Very good.”

“Oh, just the one line that’s all we need, no criticism,” Ms Daly replied.

A stunned Motsi Mabuse was next as she agreed: “Yes, very good. Very courageous, starting right in the front. We could look at every single movement you are doing.”

As the audience reacted to the remark following the show-all routine, Ms Motsi clarified: “Guys, I’m speaking about the dancing here!”

She continued: “And then you went down the stairs, and this energy, like dynamite. You attacked that dance.

“I absolutely adored it. I would love that you cleaned it up a little bit because the arms were a little bit going all over the place, so we need to clean it up at the end.

“There was a tiny little mistake, I saw that. But I mean, we are starting at levels.”

Next came Ms Ballas, who began: “You show true athleticism, and that’s good, but for me, it was overloaded with choreography.”

Seeming to aim her critique at Ms Jones, 36, she went on: “Sometimes less is more.

“And I don’t think you need all the highlights and tricks, because I actually believe that you could be a fantastic dancer.

“When you have the right and left and right then you do your pivot section, there was no rotation in the body whatsoever.

“The footwork got lost, but the entertainment was A-star, so you have to find somewhere the balance with the quality, and I think you’re capable of both. But that was still a good performance.”

An impressed Anton Du Beke then added: “Well, right, OK, I see what’s happening here.

“This is excellent. Your energy is – never lose that. But with the energy, you must have control. You’ve got it all going on.

“It’s all fabulous. You’re going to be marvelous in this series, I can feel it. But the legs are… There’s a lot of stuff going on with the legs.

“So you need to contain the whole thing, and then you’ll get more out of it but I mean, wow, what a start.”

BBC Strictly: Shirley Ballas was accused of displaying a ‘grudge’ towards Katya Jones

Despite her critical analysis, Ms Ballas went on to award the pair a score of seven, matching the other judges.

However, social media was awash with accusations of Ms Ballas showing disdain towards Ms Jones.

One X comment read: “Shirley still has her grudge towards Katya and Nadia, same old same old. #Strictly.”

“Shirley is only saying this because she hates Katya wtfff #Strictly,” another complained.

Someone else shared: “I’m sorry, overloaded with choreography? Oh Shirley, have a day off. #Strictly.”

“Shirley picking at the choreo when there’s been dances with not enough of the actual dance #strictly,” another echoed.

Someone else wrote: “Shirley Ballas critiquing the jive she needs to lighten up #Strictly,” while another penned: “My gosh, Shirley, it’s week 1! Seriously, chill! #Strictly.”

On the other hand, several supported her remarks. One fan noted: “I agree with Shirley, Katya had too much content in that dance. Less is more especially with all the dance experience he has. #Strictly.”

“Shirley actually giving Lewis criticism and not falling into the ‘I love the celebrity male curse’ is my shock of the year #strictly,” one more posted. (sic)

SAD NEWS: Gogglebox Family ANNOUNCE HEARTBREAKING L0SS As Tributes Pour In

One of the families that viewers have adored over the years on Gogglebox is the Siddiqui household. The TV personalities shot to fame after featuring on the Channel 4 show when it debuted in 2013. The family has welcomed audiences into their Derbyshire home for over a decade. The cherished clan has amassed a huge Instagram following of nearly 140,000 supporters, a social media channel the family uses regularly to share insights into their personal lives and pursuits once cameras stop rolling.

One of the latest posts from the family has sparked a flood of compassionate messages, reports the Liverpool Echo.

On the official Siddiquis Instagram account, a picture of a grey cat was shared alongside the caption: “Sleep Tight, Little One. Our little Diva Poppy – nearly 14 years and still didn’t feel long enough. A lifetime of memories we will all never forget. We hope you are reunited with your big brother Rufus and are both chasing rainbows together. Pets leave paw prints on our hearts, and memories in our souls. Sleep tight, little one.”

The family was met with compassionate messages from fans following the heartbreaking news.

One comment stated: “Bless, we lost our little one of 16 years 3 weeks ago and feel your heartbreak – never long enough with those who give love unconditionally.”

Another note read: “So sorry sorry for your heartbreaking loss. Poppy was beautiful. We lost our westie, Poppy, 14 months ago. She was almost 17, and our cat, Ruby, the summer before. She was 19.” Additional touching messages included: “So sorry you have lost your little Poppy. It’s heartbreaking to lose a pet you have loved so long. The empty space they used to fill seems enormous. The memories will stay forever in your heart.”

More condolences flooded in with tributes such as “so sorry for your loss, sleep tight little one” and “Safe journey Poppy. Over the rainbow bridge to meet up with Rufus.”

Feline enthusiasts Baasit and Mel Siddiqui also shared the identical post across their social media accounts.

Retired engineer Sid, who frequently features alongside his sons Baasit and Umar on the programme, occasionally welcomes his brother Raza as a guest on the sofa.

Baasit and his spouse Mel, who wed in 2014, are parents to Amelia and Theodore. The couple married just one year after the family became part of Gogglebox, the beloved programme that premiered in the UK on 7 March 2013 and has since broadcast 25 series on Channel 4.

Last week marked Baasit’s birthday celebrations.

Mel shared: “Happy Birthday. Happy birthday, @baasit_siddiqui. Wishing you the most wonderful birthday, we all love you to the moon and back and are so proud of everything you do. Love you always.”

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Vernon Kay responded to a blip in Saturday’s live Strictly performance(Image: Shane Anthony Sinclair/BAFTA/Getty Images )

Vernon Kay has spoken about a mishap involving his wife Tess Daly during Saturday’s opening live Strictly Come Dancing episode of the series. All 15 celebrity partnerships graced the dance floor that evening, performing their routines in a bid to remain in the contest.

The behind-the-scenes glitch happened just before La Voix’s performance, reports the Manchester Evening News. Presenter Claudia Winkleman was in conversation with EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal when she attempted to pass back to Tess Daly.

Realising her co-presenter wasn’t prepared for her cue, Claudia swiftly adapted by continuing her chat with the soap star, reports the Daily Record.

Moments afterwards, she received the go-ahead to return to Tess. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter

After La Voix delivered her American Smooth routine to Chappell Roan’s chart-topper Pink Pony Club, it emerged she should have made a dramatic entrance descending to the floor atop a pony.

However, she started her dance already positioned on the stage prop.

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Speaking on his BBC Radio 2 mid-morning programme in conversation with Sara Cox, Vernon Kay remarked: “We’ve done our fair share of live tele, and live tele is really difficult because anything can go wrong at any time.

“And I’m not just saying this because I feel connected to the show, but the one thing that always amazes me about Strictly Come Dancing is, touch wood, it never goes wrong.”

Raising the mishap, Sara interjected: “Are you talking about La Voix as well on Saturday night? There was an issue with La Voix’s pony, she was supposed to be descended from the ceiling and slowly lowered.”

Vernon responded: “Nobody knows until someone says, ‘Oh the pony was supposed to go up’, nobody would’ve known any different.

“It was brilliant because Claudia went back to Tess and then she was like, ‘Oh not now, hang on a minute, in a minute,’ but it was a lovely bit of live tele and they just handled it brilliantly,” Sara continued, commending the presenters.

Scott Mills’ temporary replacement also shared glowing remarks about Vernon’s spouse Tess from that evening, although not every viewer shared the sentiment.

Posting on platform X, one demanded Tess be substituted by La Voix as a host for next year’s series.

Another agreed: “2026 needs to see La Voix taking over from Tess presenting. I said what I said #Strictly.”

Supporting the presenter, a third remarked: “I think Tess Daly gets a really bad rap on #StrictlyComeDancing.

“I think she’s lovely, personable and always puts the contestants at ease. She’s a great foil for the judges, especially Craig.”

A fourth wrote: “Everyone is always so mean to Tess, please, she’s just trying her best.”

Coronation Street Stuns At Inside Soap Awards 2025 With A DOUBLE Victory That Left Rivals Speechless—But The Real Surprise Was One Name No One Expected To Hear

Coronation Street has scooped the Best Soap award for the second year running at the Inside Soap Awards.

The prize ceremony will take place on Monday evening in London after voting closed earlier in the day – and it will see the iconic Best Exit Award return after a six-year absence.

Coronation Street was the big winner of the night, taking home the coveted Best Soap award, along with Best Storyline, Best Actress, Best Partnership and Best Comic Performance.

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Vicky Myers, who plays DS Lisa Swain on the soap, took home the Best Actress gong while the Best Storyline went to Mason Radcliffe’s death after being stabbed to death by his own brothers and Abi Webster’s PTSD – after witnessing the attack triggers her to have flashbacks to her own son’s death.

‘It’s been an incredible year of drama, and the results in our Best Soap category were the closest they’ve ever been,’ said Inside Soap editor Sarah Ellis.

‘Corrie’s win tops off a stellar year for the soap, and is no doubt helped by the huge popularity of Best Partnership winners Alison King and Vicky Myers, aka fan favourites Swarla.’

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Coronation Street has scooped the Best Soap award for the second year running at the Inside Soap Awards, with Vicky Myers taking home the Best Actress gong

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Neighbours’ Stefan Dennis picked up Best Daytime Star for his performance as villain Paul Robinson, as well as an Outstanding Achievement award for the axed soap

The Best Family trophy was won by Emmerdale‘s Dingle clan for a whopping fifth time – more than any other family in the history of the Inside Soap Awards – while teenager Amelia Flanagan was named Best Young Performer for the fourth time.

Emmerdale also picked up the Best Showstopper accolade – a trophy awarded to a showcase stunt or episode – for the much-lauded limo crash disaster, which saw the soap submerge the vehicle in an icy lake, killing three beloved characters as the catastrophe unfolded.

Meanwhile, EastEnders’ Steve McFadden was crowned Best Actor for his powerful performance as Phil Mitchell, and Laura Doddington picked up the Best Newcomer award for her portrayal of wicked Nicola Mitchell.

Ex-EastEnders star Navin Chowdhry was named Best Villain for the second year in a row, while his former co-star James Bye won Best Exit following his character Martin Fowler’s heartbreaking death in the show’s 40th anniversary live episode.

Inside Soap readers named Casualty actor Michael Stevenson Best Drama Star for his portrayal of heroic paramedic Iain Dean, while Neighbours’ Stefan Dennis foxtrotted his way straight from Strictly Come Dancing rehearsals to pick up Best Daytime Star for his performance as villain Paul Robinson.

The ceremony awarded two prestigious Outstanding Achievement trophies this year; one to the entire cast and crew of Neighbours for delivering an incredible year of drama ahead of the show coming to an end this December; and a solo award for Nick Pickard, who’s racked up an impressive 30 years as iconic Hollyoaks character Tony Hutchinson.

Finally, the readers named EastEnders’ Heather Peace their Soap Superstar of 2025, for her ‘courageous and inspiring’ portrayal of Eve Panesar-Unwin, calling her ‘a Northern powerhouse’ and ‘an icon who has always fought for others.’

‘All of the soaps have shone brightly in 2025,’ editor Sara. ‘The fact that this year’s trophies are so evenly spread just goes to show what a strong year the whole genre is having.

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Meanwhile, EastEnders’ Steve McFadden was crowned Best Actor for his powerful performance as Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden pictured earlier this year)

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Hollyoaks star Nick Pickard accepted the Outstanding Acheivement award as he marks 30 years on the soap, having appeared in its first ever episode

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Emmerdale picked up the Best Showstopper accolade for the much-lauded limo crash disaster, with Natalie Ann Jamieson, whose character perished in the tragedy, accepting the award

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Inside Soap readers named Casualty actor Michael Stevenson Best Drama Star for his portrayal of heroic paramedic Iain Dean

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EastEnders’ Laura Doddington picked up the Best Newcomer award for her portrayal of wicked Nicola Mitchell

It really bodes well for the future of our soaps, especially as we gear up for the big Coronation Street and Emmerdale crossover at the start of 2026. There’s never been a more exciting time to be a soap fan!’

More than 90,000 soap fans vote each year in the Inside Soap Awards, and they remain – after three decades – the only accolades of their kind to be awarded based solely on the votes of viewers.

Voting opened in July for 15 different awards, with over 80,000 Inside Soap readers casting their votes and helping select the Top Four nominees in the world of soap this year.

Previously speaking on the upcoming award ceremony, the editor said: ‘The Inside Soap Awards remain the only trophies of their kind to be voted for entirely by the real experts – the soap viewing public,’ said Inside Soap magazine editor Sarah Ellis. ‘

‘Over 90,000 soap fans vote each and every year; and in addition to our list of nominees, our Soap Superstar category allows readers to put forward their own suggestions of who they feel deserves to be honoured.

‘The past 12 months have been an epic time in soap, and I can’t wait to see who the readers of Inside Soap have decided to crown their favourites this year.’

2025 also sees the return of the Best Exit category, paying tribute to those characters who’ve either met tragic ends, or moved on to pastures new this year.

‘Sadly, we’ve had to say goodbye to some truly beloved soap characters over the past 12 months,’ Sarah said.

‘Who didn’t cry their eyes out at Martin’s shock death during EastEnders’ live episode?

‘And we’re still not over poor Craig’s tragic demise in Corrie, or the loss of Leyla and Amy in the devastating Emmerdale limo crash. But it’s up to the fans which exit will get their vote.’

Inside Soap Awards Winners

BEST SOAP

Coronation Street

BEST ACTRESS

Vicky Myers (Lisa Swain, Coronation Street)

BEST ACTOR

Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell, EastEnders)

BEST COMIC PERFORMANCE

Jack P Shepherd (David Platt, Coronation Street)

BEST VILLAIN

Navin Chowdhry (Nish Panesar, EastEnders)

BEST YOUNG PERFORMER

Amelia Flanagan (April Windsor, Emmerdale)

BEST NEWCOMER

Laura Doddington (Nicola Mitchell, EastEnders)

BEST EXIT

James Bye (Martin Fowler, EastEnders)

BEST FAMILY

The Dingles (Emmerdale)

BEST STORYLINE

Mason’s death & Abi’s PTSD (Coronation Street)

BEST SHOWSTOPPER

The limo crash disaster (Emmerdale)

BEST DAYTIME STAR

Stefan Dennis (Paul Robinson, Neighbours)

BEST DRAMA STAR

Michael Stevenson (Iain Dean, Casualty)

SOAP SUPERSTAR

Heather Peace (Eve Panesar-Unwin, EastEnders)

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT (TEAM)

Neighbours

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT (SOLO)

Nick Pickard (Tony Hutchinson, Hollyoaks)

BEST PARTNERSHIP

Alison King & Vicky Myers (Carla Connor & Lisa Swain, Coronation Street)

BBC Breakfast: Ellie Goldstein announced as Strictly contestant

Ellie Goldstein has addressed Strictly Come Dancing viewers who believed they saw her looking “upset” during the first live show of the series.

The model and actress, one of the 15 celebrities participating in this year’s BBC One dance competition, previously expressed her desire to “be an inspiration” to those watching at home as the first contestant with Down syndrome to compete on the programme.

On joining the series, Ellie enthused: “I’m absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year. It’s a show I’ve loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream.

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Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola during last night’s live show(Image: PA)

 

“I know it’s going to be challenging, but I’m ready to do it with the glitter and glamour and make some magic on that dance floor. Let the Strictly journey begin!”

During the 2025 series launch show last weekend, it was announced that Ellie would be paired with professional dancer Vito Coppola for her stint on the popular show, reports the Manchester Evening News.

In Strictly’s inaugural live show on Saturday night, Ellie and her professional dance partner Vito performed the cha cha to Ariana Grande’s Yes, And?, earning a score of 17 out of a possible 40.

The 23-year-old showcased her moves on the dance floor in a sparkling light blue and silver dress, accompanied by an enthusiastic and energetic Vito.

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The Strictly stars have a close bond(Image: BBC)

As they received their feedback, all four judges agreed that Ellie “didn’t miss a step” throughout, although Craig Revel Horwood commented that her routine was “flat footed” and “stompy”.

Anton Du Beke praised Ellie as a “joy” whilst Craig, despite his typically critical nature, commended Ellie’s “natural rhythm”.

Capping off the judges’ feedback, head judge Shirley Ballas was spotted presenting Ellie with a fan emblazoned with “fabulous” following her routine.

Whilst Strictly viewers showered Ellie and Vito’s performance with acclaim, concern grew later in the programme as fans noticed the celebrity contestant appeared “upset” and was being comforted by fellow professional dancers.

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Ellie said she was “over the moon” to join the cast(Image: BBC)

Today (Sunday September 28), Ellie turned to Instagram to share her thoughts on her debut routine with Vito.

Posting snaps of the duo in action on the dancefloor, she gushed: “Thank you all so much for the incredible love and support!

“I’m over the moon that so many of you enjoyed watching me dance last night – I’m honestly having the time of my life. This really is a dream come true! I feel so lucky to be surrounded by the most amazing support team: my wonderful family, my agents, the whole Strictly crew, and of course my incredible dance partner Vito.

“I couldn’t ask for better. Dancing on this stage makes me feel strong, sassy, confident, and completely myself – I’m loving every single minute!”

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Ellie thanked fans for their support(Image: BBC)

She continued: “Just a little note: sometimes my eyes get watery after a long day – I promise I’m not upset! I’m doing so well and feeling SO happy, and your concern truly means the world.

“And one more thing – yes, I have Down syndrome, but it doesn’t define me. Not even close. It’s actually the least interesting thing about me. Much love, Ellie x #TeamCheeky.”

The response was overwhelming, with messages of support pouring in. Vito declared: “I am so proud of you and I will always make sure you have the best time. Enjoy the time with your family and rest well today…new week new dance. See you tomorrow my firefly (your big brother Gas Gas).”

Fellow Strictly participant Vicky Pattison raved: “You are both AMAZING!”

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Ellie sparked concern as fans thought she looked “upset”(Image: BBC)

Meanwhile, one admirer wrote wrote: “You have so much courage, and the best dancer in @vitocoppola the most best and loving pro and I can see he takes such good care of you! Keep shining, you are so inspiring.”

Another responded: “Wow wow wow Ellie! ! You absolute superstar. We’re so proud of you and we’re cheering you on every step of the way.”

Someone else shared: “I loved watching your dance – so much joy and energy! !”

And another added: “You brought so much joy, sparkle and fun to the dance floor Ellie, just wonderful to watch.”

UNBELIEVABLE: Gogglebox fans were LEFT IN SHOCK as Reverend Kate Bottley took to Social Media with 𝘕𝘶𝘥𝘦 snaps as she posed on The Beach after A Skinny Dip In The Sea

Reverend Kate, who rose to fame on the Channel 4 series in 2014 before walking away two years later, shared the cheeky moment with her followers on Instagram.

Kate, 50, joined hundreds of other people for the charity dip in the sea, alongside her husband Graham, who also posed 𝘕𝘶𝘥𝘦 for a photo.

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The TV star, who also appears on BBC Radio, lay down on the sand for one snap, covering her chest with her hands as she smiled for the camera.

In the second shot, she bared all alongside her husband, as they looked out onto the seawater and protected their modesty with two red heart emojis.

Kate penned to her followers: ‘Immaculate vibes at the North East Skinny, but hilarious that I had a Sunday off BBC Radio 2 and I was up and out of bed earlier than I usually am!

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Gogglebox fans were left in shock as a show star Reverend Kate Bottley took to social media with 𝘕𝘶𝘥𝘦 snaps as she took part in a skinny dip

Reverend Kate, who rose to fame on the Channel 4 series in 2014 before walking away two years later, shared the cheeky moment with her followers on Instagram

‘Thanks to everyone who said hello and didn’t ask for a selfie.’

Finding the funny side of the snaps, her fans rushed to the comments to praise the TV stars sense of humour, and her ‘bravery’ for baring all.

One wrote: ‘Can’t decide if you’re brave or crazy, I think maybe a perfect mix of the two,’ while a second penned: ‘My god, you’re braver than me! Well done!’

Kate walked away from Channel 4 show Gogglebox in 2016, and his since slammed the series as ‘exploitative’, as she revealed the had to lie to quit and made no money.

The Church of England vicar hit out that signing up for the show ended up damaging her family’s home life, as the modest fee was swallowed up by hidden costs, and their family meal times disrupted by filming.

Speaking on the Walking the Dog podcast, Kate revealed: ‘I wish I’d known how much it took over our life for two and a half years.

‘It’s reality TV, it’s by its nature consensual exploitation.’

The mother-of-two, who originally wanted to take part in a bid to help change how people of faith were seen on screen, also hit out that filming was ‘quite intrusive’.

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Kate previously hit out at Channel 4 over her family’s involvement in Gogglebox saying the series was ‘exploitative’ of families that take part

Speaking of her son Arthur, who she described as on the ‘autistic spectrum’ and daughter Ruby, Kate explained how her kids would hide in their rooms twice a week while the production crew set up in the home.

She continued: ‘My kids spent two-and-a-half years sat in their bedrooms every Tuesday and Thursday night or whatever nights they came to film.

‘My kids didn’t have friends round for a lot [of the time], didn’t have help with their homework. Things like that.’

While she and Graham were paid a small fee, Kate also said that being part of the show meant she couldn’t take better-paid offers elsewhere.

‘There was stuff coming in that I wanted to have a go at that I just wasn’t able contractually to do,’ Kate revealed of being approached to take part in shows like Would I Lie To You?.

Walking away from the show, Kate had to come up with a cover story to break the contractual clauses of her time with Channel 4.

She revealed: ‘It so happened that it came around the time that Ruby was doing her GCSEs so the excuse we gave was, “We’re going to take some time away while she does her exams.” But we were just a bit overwhelmed.’

Gogglebox airs Fridays on Channel 4. 

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Kate and her husband Graham quit the Channel 4 show in 2016