thesun--2019-05-29--Love Island fans convinced launch will see first ever same sex coupling as show puts in more boys th

Love Island fans convinced launch will see first ever same sex coupling as show puts in more boys than girls

LOVE Island fans are convinced that next week's launch will see the first ever same sex coupling as the show puts in two more boys than girls.  The official line-up for the ITV2 dating show was released on Monday, and excited viewers think that the first big twist of the series has already been revealed with there being seven men entering the villa and only five women.  Last year's series saw Adam Collard enter the villa unannounced during the very first coupling ceremony, with the hunk causing drama when he chose to steal Kendall Rae Knight from Niall Aslam.  However, the two excess male contestants have fans thinking that it won't be as simple as that this time around, and the equal number of Islanders might be a hint that we will still get six couples - and not all of the hopefuls identify as straight.  One excited fan tweeted: "HEY uh seeing all these #LoveIsland reacts but nothing talking about how there’s 5 girls and 7 guys on this year??  "Why is this, are we finally getting bi contestants?????"  Another added: "YOURE TELLING ME THEY TEASED BISEXUAL LOVE ISLAND LAST YEAR AND NOW THEYRE ACTUALLY DOING IT?"  Others are simply excited for the drama of the apparent twist - regardless of what it might be.  Love Island first had bisexual contestants in series two, with the late Sophie Gradon and Katie Salmon going on a date and sharing a smooch during their time in the 2016 villa.  However, the show rules meant that the pair were not allowed to be an "official" pairing, and Sophie eventually quit the show to be with Tom Powell, who'd previously left the villa.  Fans have long-called for producers to change the rules to allow Love Island to be more diverse, which includes same-sex couples.  Although it is currently unknown whether or not that is what bosses have decided this year, it has been revealed that this year's stars are the brainiest yet most unfaithful to date.  The girls comprise of surfer Lucie Donlan, 21, from Cornwall, air hostess Amy Hart, 26, from Worthing, scientist Yewande Biala, 23, from Dublin, pharmacist Anna Vakili, 28, from London and Geordie beauty Amber Gill, 21.  While the lads are pro dancer Curtis Pritchard, 23, from Shropshire, boxer Tommy Fury, 20, from Manchester, firefighter Michael Griffiths, 27, from Liverpool, gym owner Anton Danyluk, 24, from Airdrie, Catering company owner Joe Garratt, 22, from London, chef and rugby player Sherif Lanre, 20, from London, and engineer Callum MacLeod, 28, from South Wales  Love Island will return to our screens on Monday 3rd June at 9pm on ITV2  Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.  We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


thesun--2019-06-26--Love Island fans claim theyre being sick and say bosses have turned UP the volume on Danny and Ar

Love Island fans claim they’re ‘being sick’ and say bosses have turned UP the volume on Danny and Arabella’s ‘loud’ kissing

LOVE Island fans are left feeling "sick" after Danny Williams and Arabella Chi's loud kissing.  The 21-year-old model decided to couple up with the ASOS model in Monday night's episode, which meant Yewande Biala had to leave the villa.  Within moments of the recoupling Danny, from Hull, and Arabella, 28, locked lips on the swing for the first time, which angered other Islanders - especially Yewande's closest pal Amber Gill.  The pair now share a bed together and the loud smooching has not stopped.  ITV2 viewers are not impressed, and "can't stand" the loud, exaggerated kissing sounds.  One fan tweeted: "Can’t stand how loud and sloppy the kissing sounds on love island."  A second shared: "The noises of them kissing on love island are vile make my toes curl wanna vom."  A third wrote: "Catching up on love island on the train and I thought the kissing noises were annoying anyway but OMG WHEN YOU’RE LISTENING TO THEM ON EARPHONES GUYS WANNA RIP MY EARS OFF AND THROW THEM IN THE BIN."  A separate viewer vented: "Is there any WORSE SOUND than people kissing into the microphone on love island???"  Another wrote: "When everyone is coupled up, going to bed must sound MAD, bare lips and tongues kissing lool bare sloppy sounds."  Another Love Island viewer shared their annoyance on the online platform, and wrote: "Really wish love island wasn’t just an hour of hearin exaggerated slimey kissing noises through microphones it makes me so ANGRY."  A separate viewer added: "Kissing noises on love island make me feel sick, yuck cover your mic pls."  Another added: "The kissing sounds on #LoveIsland are driving me absolutely mental. Disgusting."  "I CANNOT deal with those KISSING NOISES on love island mate", ranted another watcher.  Other viewers have claimed the show's bosses have amped up the volume of the kisses, while others want to start a petition to mute the intimate moments.  A separate viewer wrote: "Petition to get the kissing noises on love island turned the fuck down", while another added: "Where do you go to apply for the volume of kissing to be turned down plz #LoveIsland."  This is not the only complaint this season has received, as the show is facing another Ofcom investigation after 192 viewers complained Amber and Anna were bullying Danny.  A total of almost 1,5000 complaints have been received since the show first aired on June 3.  Fans were left worried for Lucie Donlan’s safety, branding her coupled-up partner Joe as controlling and unstable.  Maura Higgins' flirtatious behaviour also sparked upset as some viewers felt she was sexually harrassing Tommy Fury.  Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.  We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


thesun--2019-06-28--Love Island fans are convinced Molly-Mae is copying Lucie after they spot them wearing the same outf

Love Island fans are convinced Molly-Mae is copying Lucie after they spot them wearing the same outfits and hairstyles

The Cornish surfer wore a white and black zip up swimsuit on the first day of the ITV2 show, which the 20-year-old Instagram influencer slipped in to on her date with Tommy Fury last night.  Lucie, 21, has sported her signature curly hair throughout her time on the show, and for the neon party, which aired on Thursday evening, Molly curled her hair the same way.  These moments did not go unnoticed as eagle-eyed viewers were quick to point their likenesses out on social media.  One fan tweeted: "First the swimsuit now the hair????"  A second wrote: "Did anyone else notice how similar molly mae and Lucie looked when they both looked down tonight???????"  A third shared: "It was hilarious that Molly Mae went on a date wearing Lucies swimsuit and did her hair like Lucie in the evening."  The similar styling comes shortly after the Online Buzz game earlier this week, which saw one tweet written by the public, stated Lucie and Tommy were the "perfect match".  Following the game Lucie told some Islanders she would "never say never" to dating the professional boxer, despite him being coupled with Molly.  Molly has since asked Tommy to cool down his friendship with Lucie - much to her annoyance.  Tommy and Lucie had coupled up earlier in the series, but she decided to pursue her romance with Joe - who has since left - while the sportsman found love with Molly.  Viewers think the recent challenge has left Molly feeling "insecure", which is why she is dressing to look like her rival.  A separate viewer tweeted: "Molly feeling a little insecure same hair do."  While another added: "Can we all please note how Molly Mae styled her hair JUST LIKE LUCIE’S for the neon party tonight RIGHT AFTER she’s saying tommy needs to put up boundaries??? Coincidence?????? @LoveIsland."  "Why’s molly got her hair like lucie is she that threatened she’s trying to look like her", shared another.  Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.  We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


thesun--2019-07-05--Emmerdale fans disgusted as Jacob Gallagher is groomed again this time by dad David and mum Layl

Emmerdale fans disgusted as Jacob Gallagher is ‘groomed’ again – this time by dad David and mum Layla

EMMERDALE fans were disgusted tonight as David 'groomed' Jacob after he was abused by teacher Maya.  The worried dad has been trying to reconnect with his son after the teen was sexually abused by paedophile teacher Maya Stepney.  He contacts Jacob online under the guise of a student and tries to convince him to go to university after Jacob decided to abandon his dream of being a doctor.  But his tactics didn't go down well with viewers who took to Twitter to slam the shop owner.  One fan tweeted on Friday night: "David is coming across as a stalker in this Jake storyline. Not nice..."  Another person wrote on Twitter: "So we go from maya grooming Jacob's to david and layla grooming Jacob's?? This just gets more twisted as we go along"  And a third asked: "So is David now effectively grooming Jacob, too?  At the end of the episode Jacob realised what David was up to and is horrified his dad posed as someone else online to try and regain the teen’s trust.  But Jacob is quick to work out what David’s up to and will lure him and mum Leyla to the café.  After being baited with a message to their fake account David and Leyla arrive that the café when Jacob – played by Joe- Warren Plant - confronts them.  Forced to admit the truth David confesses that the fake account is his.  Jacob is devastated and feels utter betrayal but when his granddad Eric Pollard – Chris Chittell - steps in to help resolve the situation, he grows breathless leaving David and Jacob panicked.  The next day the father and son quietly agree to keep Eric stress free and David is encouraged by Jacob’s loyalty.  Meanwhile, Leyla sees David and Jacob getting along and a plan slowly starts to form.  What’s she planning? Will David and Jacob be able to rebuild their shattered relationship?  Jacob blames David for calling the police on Maya who is currently serving a year in jail for inappropriate messages she sent to Jacob when he was just 15.  David actor Matthew Wolfenden recently spoke out about the long journey ahead for the father and son.  He said: “He's (Jacob) obviously devastated and thinks that David has completely ruined his life. He still wants to be with Maya and thinks they're in love.  "This is the start of the hard times for David and Jacob. The fact that Maya has been arrested is not the end of the storyline. I think it's the beginning of the next chapter.  "I don't know what's going to happen next, because as far as Jacob thinks, David has ruined his life.  "I don't know if he's ever going to come around to the fact that David hasn't. It's definitely not going to be a quick fix."  Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.  We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


thesun--2019-07-28--Killing Eve fans spot tiny clue that reveals Eves fate in season 2 finale

Killing Eve fans spot tiny clue that ‘reveals’ Eve’s fate in season 2 finale

KILLING Eve fans spot major clue about Eve Polatsri's fate in season two finale.  In the final episode of the BBC thriller Villanelle (Jodie Comer) asked Eve (Sandra Oh) to run away with her after they killed off Aaron Peele, but when the secret agent refuses all hell breaks loose.  An upset Villanelle shoots at Eve and kills her as they escape through Rome's Colosseum after being rebuked.  But fans do not think this is the end of Eve, as they spot her going back to get a bullet proof vest before fleeing with the villain.  One fan tweeted: "Will Eve be okay? I don't know.  "I know she will survive. There would be no point without her. Now we wait for season three."  A second added: "I think Eve will be alive having actually wore her bullet proof vest!"  A third shared: "Obviously wearing her bulletproof vest."  In the You're Mine episode, fans notice a conversation between Eve and Carolyn Martens (Fiona Shaw), but the MI6 boss left without Eve.  Eagle eyed viewers noticed there was a break before Eve later left the room.  It is in this snippet fans believe Eve reached for her bullet proof vest.  While some believe Eve reached for protection, others hope she was just pretending to be dead or was hit in an area she can survive from.  A separate viewer wrote: "She either shot her in the leg or somewhere where there won’t be any effect or Eve was wearing a bulletproof vest and playing dead like Hugo.  "There was no blood. Can series 3 hurry up and arrive."  Another tweeted: "Eve isn’t wearing a bullet proof vest, and using Hugo’s tactic of ‘play dead’ come the first episode of series 3."  Season 3 is set to air in 2020, while the first two series are available to watch on BBC iPlayer.


thesun--2019-08-28--Bake Off fans claim Phil has to be related to Dan from Emmerdale as they spot uncanny resemblance

Bake Off fans claim Phil ‘has to be related’ to Dan from Emmerdale as they spot uncanny resemblance

THE Great British Bake Off fans have claimed that Phil Thorne "has to be related" to Dan from Emmerdale as they spotted an uncanny resemblance between the two men.  The much-loved baking show returned to Channel 4 last night, but some viewers were distracted by a batch of familiar faces.  The 56-year-old HGV driver was by far the most recognisable, with dozens of fans flocking to social media to draw a comparison between him and the ITV soap character, played by Liam Fox.  One shocked viewer wrote: "Hang on a minute.... is Phil actually Dan from @Emmerdale?"  Another added: "When Phil's not making cakes he is Dan from Emmerdale..."  A third joked: "So good to see Dan from Emmerdale branching out on The Great British Bake Off!"  Meanwhile, 35-year-old Michelle Evans-Fecci told Bake Off's host Noel Fielding that her husband thinks that she looks like him.  But fans at home believe that she was actually Fleabag actress Sian Clifford in disguise.  A viewer tweeted: "I know why Michelle from #GBBO looks familiar. She looks like Sian Clifford who plays Claire from the TV show Fleabag."  A second agreed: "Michelle looks so much like Sian Clifford, it's mental."  Henry Bird, 20, is one of the youngest contestants in this year's show, and fans claimed that he looks just like baby-faced Game of Thrones' star Thomas Brodie-Sangster.  The 29-year-old actor first shot to fame in 2003 rom-com Love Actually before landing the role of Jojen Reed in the fantasy series.  A fan tweeted: "Henry looks quite a bit like Thomas Brodie Sangster."  Another wrote: "Henry looks like the twin brother of Thomas Brodie-Sangster."  Finally, 20-year-old Jamie Finn secured himself as a fan favourite in last night's premiere show, with the entertaining student making fans chuckle as he forgot to add eggs to his sponge mixture - alongside his shocking angel cake disaster.  And it wasn't just his TV-ready personality that made him appear recognisable to viewers, with some claiming that he looks like 31-year-old Geordie Shore star Scotty T.  One wrote: "Don't know why but I am getting Scotty T vibes from Jamie."  Another quipped: "Why is Scotty T making an Easter cake?" as Jamie put together an Easter-themed cake for his very first bake.  The Great British Bake Off continues next Tuesday at 8pm on Channel 4  Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.  We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


thesun--2019-11-04--BBC’s His Dark Materials’ debut episode slammed as ‘slow and all over the place’ by disappointed fan

BBC’s His Dark Materials’ debut episode slammed as ‘slow and all over the place’ by disappointed fans

VIEWERS slammed the BBC's £50million adaptation of His Dark Materials last night, branding the first episode "slow" and "all over the place".  The fantasy drama debuted on BBC One last night to a huge 7.2 million viewers but not everyone was impressed by the way Philip Pullman's beloved trilogy was brought to life.  The first episode introduced us to 12-year Lyra (Dafne Keen) who was raised at an Oxford University college after her uncle Lord Asriel (James McAvoy) left her there as a baby to keep her safe.  We were also introduced to the daemons, the spirit animals who house the humans' souls and follow them everywhere.  But the complex plot and dense mythology of the other-worldly adventure left many scratching their heads and turning off.  One wrote: "#HisDarkMaterials nope, gave it a try but, not being familiar with the books, found it slow, dull and rather impenetrable (found myself playing on my phone). Have the BBC spent a fortune on something just for existing fans?"  A second added: "Surely I can’t be the only one who is completely, and utterly confused?"  A third weighed in: "I was not convinced. Was a bit all over the place but maybe just because it was setting the scene hopefully next week will be better I know the story is good."  A fourth gave their verdict: "Hmm, not sure about #HisDarkMaterials yet. It looks gorgeous (especially McAvoy in his knitwear, ngl ?) but there’s something... a little forced, a little stiff about it? Certainly not instantly in love with it the way I was #GoodOmens but maybe it just needs time to warm up..."  And a fifth chipped in: "I thought the first episode of His Dark Materials was fine, not great, not bad, fine. I think it would've been confusing if I hadn’t read the books. A slow start & lots is different to in my head, which is odd to see. They did a good job building a world with the right atmosphere."  Luckily for the BBC, who co-produced the epic with US TV giant HBO, many hardcore fans of the books, who were already familiar with the complex world, were pleased with what they saw.  One happy viewer posted: "Honestly, every single scene made me tear up at how perfect it was. Even just thinking back on it now makes me teary. Couldn’t have asked for more, you little geniuses."  Another chuffed fan tweeted: "Been waiting over a decade for a decent adaptation and this might just be it!!"  Another simply said: "THAT. WAS. EVERYTHING."  And a fourth praised the production values, writing: "One hour of awesomeness, lavish and exquisite . Lots of money pumped into this production and it shows."  The eight-part series boasts a stellar cast, including Hamilton's Lin Manuel Miranda, Luther's Ruth Wilson, former Poirot actor David Suchet and Fleabag's 'hot priest' Andrew Scott.  It continues next Sunday at 8pm on BBC One.


thesun--2019-11-06--Hollyoaks fans spot major blunder as Mercedes should be dead after bleeding out for 12 hours

HOLLYOAKS fans spotted a major blunder on Wednesday night as Mercedes McQueen should have been DEAD after "bleeding out" for 12 hours.  Viewers shouted foul play on Twitter after scheming Mercedes - who is played by actress Jennifer Metcalfe in the Channel 4 soap - was ambushed by one of her seven enemies and shot in last night's episode.  Goldie found Mercedes in the loft after Nana raised her suspicions over her granddaughter's whereabouts.  After paramedics rushed Mercedes to hospital, Sylver told Nana and Goldie at the hospital: "She's in an induced coma and they say it could be sepsis.  "It's a miracle she is alive, if it was a few inches to the left..."  However viewers were not convinced that Mercedes would have survived at all after being left alone for up to 12 hours overnight.  One said: "Mercedes would have bled out by now. #Hollyoaks"  Another fan tweeted: "Mercedes really should be dead from a loss of blood! #Hollyoaks"  Hollyoaks opened tonight with Taylor Swift's track Look What You Made Me Do in a nod to the shooting at the club.  There are seven suspects with James Nightingale, Grace Black, Breda McQueen, Sylver McQueen, Liam Donovan, Joel Dexter and Diane Hutchinson all in the frame for the attempted murder.  And eagle-eyed fans also think they spotted which of the seven official suspects actually pulled the trigger.  One wrote: "I bet it’s going be Diane!"  A second said: "Diane is the one who shot Mercedes - that earlier convo with Edward was a clue #Hollyoaks".  Another added: "They’re going to find Diane’s blood at the scene when Mercedes is shot aren’t they? Also, why hasn’t anyone called the police yet?"  The attempted murder came after Mercedes confronted all of her enemies and gave them what for after they tried to scam her by stealing drinks from her pub.  She terrified James by walking towards him and pulling her phone out like a gun, before telling him how Harry only wanted him for his money and then turning to Grace and warning her about her own murders.  Joel was next with her ripping into him about his knowing her secrets and his secret meeting with Cleo, while Goldie got a mouthful for being a "market knockoff".  Diane was called out for her behaviour towards Harry before he died, and her evil rapist son Finn being welcomed back into the village.  "I would rather be dead and buried instead of being stuck here with you," she said as she stormed out to the loft where someone tried to help her along the way by shooting her.  She ran into Liam first and when he rejected her she told him how she had had a termination of his baby.  * Hollyoaks airs weeknights on Channel 4 at 6.30pm with a first look episode following at 7pm on E4


birminghammail--2019-05-28--Spice Girls fans demand Cardiff gig REFUNDS as sound problems continue following Dublin controversy

Fans have complained of sound issues for the second time on the Spice Girls' reunion tour.  The pop group performed at Cardiff's Principality Stadium on Monday evening, with fans taking to social media to argue they could not hear the music properly from inside the venue.  It comes after similar complaints from the Spice Girls' performance at Dublin's Croke Park on Friday.  Writing on Twitter after the concert in Wales, one fan said: "Okay so @spicegirls was so much fun however the sound was atrocious and you could not hear what they actually said! So disappointing when you pay soo much for a once in a life time opportunity."  Another commented: "@spicegirls how disappointing to spend money on a ticket to see you @principalitysta and the support act stole the show! Sound was pants!"  One wrote: "@spicegirls it was a shame that you still had not fixed the sound at your Cardiff gig tonight. Couldn't hear half of it!"  And another complained: "@spicegirls not much better in Cardiff... The sound was awful again.. What a way to spend money! £refundplease."  However, not all fans agreed and many tweeted to say they had not experienced any issues with the sound.  One called it a "fantastic show" while another said the evening was "phenomenal".  After Friday's gig, Spice Girl Mel B said she hoped the sound "will be much better" at Cardiff.  The Spice Girls' Spice World tour will continue at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester (May 29 to June 1), followed by stops in Coventry's Ricoh Arena (June 3-4), Sunderland's Stadium Of Light (June 6), Edinburgh's BT Murrayfield Stadium (June 8), Bristol's Ashton Gate Stadium (June 10) and London's Wembley Stadium (June 13-15).


birminghammail--2019-12-15--Strictly Come Dancing fans' fury over online voting problems during live final

Strictly Come Dancing fans were left disgruntled during the show's live final after facing technical problems while voting online.  Viewers used Twitter to complain about being unable to support their favourite act of the evening - either Kelvin Fletcher, Karim Zeroual or Emma Barton - with many saying they were being told they had reached their "maximum number of votes allowed" despite not having cast a vote.  Voters were advised twice during the show by the programme's official Twitter account to vote by phone.  "We are experiencing a very high volume of votes this evening," a post from the BBC programme said.  "If you are having any difficulties voting online remember you can vote by phone, the numbers are all on http://bbc.co.uk/strictly."  Large numbers of Strictly fans were seen complaining on the social media platform about being unable to vote, with many posting screengrabs of what they could see.  One viewer shared an image of the voting screen bearing the words: "Thank you for voting. The winner will be revealed at the end of tonight's live show so keep watching!  "You have reached the maximum number of votes allowed."  The viewer tweeted: "@SCD2019UK I just tried to vote online it said thanks for voting you've used the maximum amount of votes , I NEVER VOTED!!!  "I'm getting really sick of fixed result speculations but now I see why £votefixing £BBCStrictly."  Another viewer wrote: "For goodness sake @bbcstrictly the voting is screwed up AGAIN! £BBCStrictly."  "Has anyone else had trouble voting on line?" another asked, adding: "Managed 1 vote then said I'd reached maximum? £BBCStrictly."  One fan said: "Oh what a surprise! Online voting is a complete mess again! £BBCStrictly."  Former Emmerdale star Fletcher, children's TV presenter Zeroual and EastEnders actress Barton were competing to win the series and lift the Glitterball Trophy.


eveningstandard--2019-01-10--Westlife are back Fans in apostearsapos as group drop comeback single Hello My Love

Westlife are back! Fans in 'tears' as group drop comeback single Hello My Love

Forget the Spice Girls – Westlife are back and we feel like we’re flying without wings.  The chart-topping Irish boyband have officially made their comeback with new single Hello My Love.  Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan dropped their first new release in eight years on Thursday morning, months after confirming their return to music.  The ballad was penned by Ed Sheeran ahead of their reunion announcement, something the group described as an “honour”.  “Ed is now one of the biggest stars in the world but also when I first met him, he was just doing gigs in bars and he was not very widely known,” Feehily told Metro. “When I met him that time, he was a huge Westlife fan and learnt to play the guitar to one of our greatest hits and he just loved Westlife.  “I thought, that’s really cool, this really talented singer-songwriter loves Westlife.”  The track quickly climbed to the top of the iTunes chart minutes after its release with the Westlife hashtag soon trending on Twitter, with fans worldwide in celebration.  One fan posted: “Name any boy band from back in the day that has been silent for 10 years then drops a single (Hello my love),  without saying a single word about it and boom its trending in less than 2 hours? #Westlife  are the GOAT(reminds me of our very own @RealShinski).”  Another tweeted: “Ahhhh the new @westlifemusic song Hello My Love is amazing, I love it!! Great song.”  A third excited fan wrote: “I am shouting, my childhood g’s.... #Westlife.”  Westlife will tour the UK and Ireland for the first time in seven years next summer with The Twenty Tour in celebration of the group’s 20th anniversary.  The tour is their fastest selling of all time, with 400,000 tickets selling within 48 hours of release last year.  The shows will mark their first as a group since playing Croke Park in Dublin in June 2012.  Hello My Love is out now


eveningstandard--2019-01-14--Jesy Nelson dancing to R Kelly enrages fans as Little Mix star is aposcancelledapos

Jesy Nelson dancing to R Kelly enrages fans as Little Mix star is 'cancelled'

Jesy Nelson has come under fire from Little Mix fans after she shared a video of herself dancing to R Kelly’s ignition in the wake of sexual abuse claims.  Nelson, 27, posted an Instagram video as she danced along to a live cover of the track with a friend during a night out.  “Ooh Ignition, R Kelly,” she can be heard saying as she pouts in front of the camera.  The post sparked a backlash from fans who slammed her for singing along to the 2003 hit amid the allegations of sexual abuse levelled against R Kelly and the release of the new documentary, Surviving R Kelly.  One user tweeted: “LMAO AS IF WE NEEDED ANOTHER REASON TO CANCEL JESY NELSON.”  Another posted: “Jesy Nelson what the f***? First you film a white person saying the n word and put it on Instagram and now you are bopping along with R Kelly after what has just happened? Shame on you... I'm done with you, CANCELLED.  You just ruin LM's reputation too. Bye sis”  Others defended the singer against trolls, with one posting:  “Don’t get me wrong I absolutely despise R. Kelly but the accusations have been around for years and it’s been absolutely fine for people to listen to them songs/ use them in movies etc. so I do think it’s a little unfair for her to get *as much* hate as she is.”  Standard Online has contacted representatives for Nelson for comment.  Surviving R Kelly documents several women who have come forward to allege that R Kelly had sexually assaulted them.  He has not been charged with any offence in relation to the latest accusations and adamantly denies any wrongdoing.  A handful of celebs have spoken out against the singer including John Legend and Lady Gaga, who worked with Kelly on Do What U Want in 2013.  Gaga apologised for the collaboration on Twitter, telling fans she was at a “dark time in my life” when she teamed up with him.  She tweeted: “I can't go back, but I can go forward, and continue to support women, men, and people of all sexual identities, and of all races, who are victims of sexual assault.”  Cara Delevingne last week revealed she lost 50,000 Instagram followers after speaking out against Kelly. “Every time I say something real, something I truly believe, something others may think of as controversial, something that makes people think and ask questions, I lose followers,” she posted.  “The followers I lose clearly don’t agree with what I have to say, people that support the ideas and actions of others who are moving backwards and not forwards.”


eveningstandard--2019-02-21--Bros fans try to explain who the 80s band are to their children after shock Brit Awards appearance

Bros fans were left cringing after they were forced to try and explain who the popular 80s group are to their children, following their surprise appearance at the Brit Awards.  Twin brothers Matt and Luke Goss made a shock return to the prestigious awards show after 30 years to present at Wednesday night's ceremony.  Their appearance, which saw them try and fail to get a huge cheer from the crowd, left some young fans baffled.  One fan wrote: “Trying to explain who Bros are to the kids. Well, not quite as big as 1Direction but bigger than, erm, than ... have you heard of Brother Beyond?? #Brits.”  Another tweeted: “Wow, no one at the O2 cares about Bros do they?”  A third added: “Bros trying to get people to cheer... tragic! The crowd were born about twenty years too late to know who the hell you even are guys!”  Other viewers were left in awe of the pair, with some saying it’s the first time the show has been “worth watching”.  One excited viewer wrote: “Ok so Bros just won the Brits.”  Another commented: “OMG BROS @mattgoss and @LukeGoss at the Brits! First time it’s been worth watching in 20 years! I have finally heard of a band on there.”  Despite the mixed reaction, the pair were more than happy with the response to their appearance, deeming it “amazing.”  Speaking at the show, Matt said: “It’s been amazing, the love we’ve received in this country has been amazing. We got in from America yesterday and everyone has been really lovely to us.”  Whitehall left Brits viewers in stitches after he mocked the brothers in a series of digs at their now viral BBC documentary, After the Screaming Stops.  Spelling out each letter he joked: “Are you glad to be H O M E at the B R I T S?”  The comedian went on to add that the pair should “speak about getting the kids out there not to wear protection.”  The cringe-worthy moment concluded with host Whitehall pulling out a conker on a string while making a crude joke on the pair’s “conkers” being “bigger” than his in reference to a discussion from the documentary.


eveningstandard--2019-05-20--Game of Thrones fans heartbroken as show ends with dramatic final episode

Game of Thrones fans have said they were left "devastated" after they learned the fate of the Iron Throne in the final ever episode.  The eighth and final series of the fantasy drama came to an end in the UK on Monday night, with a dramatic last instalment that saw Jon Snow kill Daenerys Targaryen by stabbing her through the heart.  Many viewers said they were left disappointed, saying they felt Daenerys, played by Emilia Clarke, deserved a better ending.  One posted on Twitter: "I began watching Game of Thrones in 2012 before the second season came out and ever since I've always rooted for Daenerys and honestly that season finale broke my heart."  "This breaks my heart so much #Daenerys did not deserve this at all," said another.  One person tweeted: "My heart is broken, I demand justice for Daenerys, the only one true character of GOT."  "Daenerys deserves so much better. I am so devastated," posted another.  One irked viewer wrote: "You killed Daenerys, all my years of watching was pointless. Bad writing..."  Game Of Thrones, which is based on the books by George RR Martin, started in 2011 and ran for eight series, becoming a huge hit.  As it came to a close, many viewers said they did not know how to fill the void it would leave.  "My Monday morning motivation is over. End Of an Era for sure," tweeted one.  "Can't..... stop ...... crying how is it all over," asked another.  "There will never be a show like @GameOfThrones," said another viewer.  "I am heartbroken to see it ending but am forever grateful for this masterpiece in television history. Thank you @HBO."  One upset viewer said: "I've been bawling my eyes out for years now, but nothing will compare to the feeling of hearing the soundtrack for the very last time.  "And now our watch has ended."


eveningstandard--2019-06-03--Love Island fans unhappy with Mike Thalassitis tribute aposShame on you ITVapos

Love Island fans unhappy with Mike Thalassitis tribute: 'Shame on you ITV!'

Love Island fans were left outraged by the tribute to Mike Thalassitis, accusing show bosses of not doing enough to remember the ex-islander.  Thalassitis starred on the 2017 series. He was found dead in woodland near his home in Edmonton, London, on March 15. He took his own life.  Love Island bosses paid tribute to the late reality TV star at the end of Monday night’s series five launch by flashing up a picture of Thalassitis alongside the words: “In loving memory of Mike Thalassitis 1993-2019.”  Fans claimed that show bosses should have put together a longer tribute while others criticised the decision to flash it up at the end of the show instead of as it opened.  “Is that genuinely all Mike got??? #loveisland,” asked one viewer on Twitter.  Another wrote: “Love Island Execs are s***. They gave Mike 2 seconds after the credits? Disgusting #loveisland.”  A third tweeted: “Did they just do a throw-away 2 second tribute to Mike and the end of the show? Lol wow that is shocking wtf.  #LoveIsland.”  Others questioned why Sophie Gradon, who died last summer, two years after starring on the show, failed to get a tribute.  Others defended the tribute to Thalassits, praising show bosses for the “lovely” move.  Standard Online has contacted representatives for Love Island for comment.  Both contestants’ deaths sparked calls for ITV to revise its duty of care to islanders pre and post taking part.  This year’s cohort of singletons will have access to a welfare team both during the show and after as well as a senior team who have Mental Health First Aid training.  They will receive “bespoke social media training” and advice on finance on returning home as well as eight therapy sessions and proactive contact for 14 months after the series has ended, with additional help provided where necessary.  Twelve new islanders set up home in the famous villa on Monday night before being told two boys will remain single after surprise late arrivals Tommy Fury and Curtis Pritchard introduced themselves.  The opening show saw Amy and Anton, Lucie and Joe, Anna and Sherif, Michael and Yewande and Callum and Amber couple up.  But Anton soon made a move on Lucie, telling both her and Joe that he fancies her.  Love Island is on ITV2, tomorrow at 9pm


eveningstandard--2019-11-19--Cold Call fans are convinced Daniel Ryan's character Des is secretly trying to scam June

Channel 5’s first ever original drama Cold Call is off to a great start and fans have already begun sharing their theories online - with some claiming a main character might not be as innocent as he seems.  The psychological thriller, which aired for the first time on Monday night, is a gripping exploration of how far one woman - played expertly by Sally Lindsay - will go to protect her family after losing her life savings in a telephone banking scam.  The series opener introduced the scam victims and teased that there is so much more to the characters than they are letting on.  In the show, Sally plays June Clarke, a hard-working single mum, with grandchild one the way, who is targeted in a phone scam.  June joins a self-help group where she meets another victim Des, played by Daniel Ryan. Line of Duty’s Paul Higgins also appears as June’s suspected perpetrator.  However, some viewers are convinced that Des, who seems hell-bent on helping June, is in fact the scammer and that Kirk, another character, is his new victim.  As the show aired, one user tweeted: “ Think Des has his own agenda here. Something a bit odd about him.”  Another added: “Really enjoyed #ColdCall tonight with the lovely @sally_lindsay. Couldn’t look at the screen during the last 5 minutes as I was too scared however I have a bad feeling about Des. I think he’s in on it.”  “Is Des a scammer and Kirk is his next target..... #twist #coldcall,” said a third.  Standard Online were among reporters who got a sneak peek at the series and the show's creators also revealed why it was so important to make.  Cold Call is the broadcaster’s first collaboration with UK-based production company Chalkboard TV and is written by Karyn Dougan-Buckland and Mark Buckland.  Series producer Mike Benson explained that Chalkboard’s previous work with factual content informed how it “structured and budgeted the production.”  “It was actually quite interesting. I think Channel 5 wanted to partner with us because we were young and scripted, and because of our factual background," he said.  “We met a lot of people in the drama world and we told them our budget and they were like there’s no way you can pull it off.  “I think the things we have done in documentaries really informed how we structured and budgeted the production, we did almost half of it as a more full-fact drama and the other half of it as almost more of a documentary team."  Lindsay revealed that although the series is fictional, she was a target of a phone scam just a week before she signed up to star in the drama.  She explained: “I got a call from what I thought was the gas board. This guy was telling me because I hadn’t paid the bill, I was going to be given a county court judgment and be cut off.  “Even though I knew it was paid, I was listening and half of me was believing him.  "Then the doorbell rang and there was someone at the door so I said, ‘I’ll ring you back...’ and the line went dead.”  Cold Call is the first of three new drama productions which Channel 5 previously revealed were in the pipeline.  Earlier this year, Ben Frow, their director of programmes, said he was hoping to release between six and eight dramas a year, adding that he was “very willing to be experimental with directors and writers.”  Cold Call returns on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 9pm on Channel 5.


pinknewsuk--2019-02-14--Frozen 2 trailer has convinced fans that Elsa is a lesbian

Signup to receive a daily roundup of the top LGBT+ news stories from around the world  Frozen 2 protagonist Elsa is a lesbian, according to many fans who have watched the new trailer.  Disney fuelled the long-held opinion of queer Frozen enthusiasts, that the ice queen should be written as a lesbian, with the release of a new teaser on Wednesday (February 13).  In the two-minute video, Elsa is seen attempting to use her powers to create an icy pathway across the sea, and also blasts a pink-and-purple cloud in a scene which seems to use bisexual lighting.  Some are saying that an unidentified red-headed character in the trailer is Elsa’s girlfriend, though others have pointed out that they look like a younger version of Anna.  The scene also contains a young, blonde character. This may suggest that it’s a flashback involving the two sisters, and not the revelation that countless queer fans have been waiting for.  If Elsa did come out, she would be the first queer Disney princess.  Many Frozen fans have tweeted that Elsa’s clothing choices in the trailer prove her queer sexuality.  One said: “I want to make elsa’s lesbian pantsuit overcoat outfit,” while another commented: “Elsa’s outfit in Frozen 2 screams LESBIAN and that’s on that. Thanks for coming to my ted talk.”  Another wrote: “elsa looking like a real lesbian,” while one person commented: “Elsa is serving powerful lesbian energy and I’m f**king here for it. Freeze me MOM.”  According to the fandom, the Queen of Arendelle is attempting to freeze a route through the sea in the trailer in order to get to her girlfriend.  One of the advocates of this theory wrote: “They definitely gave Elsa a gf in Frozen 2. Only a lesbian would go through so much to be with her partner.”  Another tweeted: “Elsa’s crossing oceans for her lesbian lover,” while a different user commented: “Elsa really is lesbian Jesus walking on water like that!!”  One fan said: “I don’t know why running into the ocean over and over strikes me as a very gay thing to do but Elsa looks like a very determined lesbian trying to cross the ocean for her long-distance gf.”  Others were adamant that Disney now has no choice: Elsa has to be a lesbian.  One of these fans wrote: “I’m sorry @Disney but y’all can NOT put Elsa in that outfit and then Not make her a lesbian.”  And another determined tweeter commented: “All im saying is… if elsa doesnt get a girlfriend in Frozen 2 then all my lesbian bitches will ride at dawn.”  Another asked: “If Elsa doesn’t reveal her true lesbian form in Frozen 2, then what’s the point?” while a different fan tweeted: “if elsa aint a lesbian in frozen 2 then idk what im gonna do.”


pinknewsuk--2019-09-21--Irish Simpsons Fans have started their own political party and theyre pro-trans rights

Irish Simpsons Fans have started their own political party – and they’re pro-trans rights

Well, there's nothing on earth like genuine, bona fide, electrified, six-car trans rights. (Ireland Simpsons Fans/20th Century Fox Television)  A viral Simpsons fanpage based in Ireland has announced it is setting up a political party.  Yes, you read that correctly. No, you don’t have to schedule an eye-exam. And yes, this is the most 2019 thing that’s happened so far.  The viral Facebook page Ireland Simpsons Fans (ISF) announced yesterday that it is launching a political party – the ISF Party – to represent those who feel they are not represented by the major Irish parties.  While not yet a registered party, the original page, founded in 2016, found its fanbase jumping at the chance to become members.  The page, joined by a Twitter account in 2017, amassed a loyal following for posting political re-hashes of tried and tested The Simpsons jokes.  “There is a crisitunity in Irish politics,” their website reads.  “Landlords are eating you and everyone you care about. Insufficient bear tax has diminished the wild bear population. The rich click their tongues and destroy the climate.  “For years, we have used ‘Can’t someone else do it?‘ – and we are that someone else.”  “The ISF Party is Ireland’s newest all-island political party,” the statement read. ISF claimed on Twitter it received 500 members in under six hours.  As a result, the party’s membership quickly exceeded the followings of existing parties Aontú, which was established by Sinn Féin’s Peadar Tóibín when he resigned this year. As well as the right-wing party Renua.  Party organisers have not revealed an official manifesto yet, but the ISF’s Twitter has been steadily revealing details of where the party’s policy stands.  The group tweeted that it’s a “no TERF club” and its aim is to “turn Ireland into the most progressive country in the world for trans rights”.  It also stated that they’re against the Fianna Fáil. The big tent party that has built a following with its more populist, nationalist policy proposals.  Operated by the Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) of the Department of Justice and Equality, the system provides asylum seeker residents with accommodation free of charge and a living allowance.  However, human rights campaigners and watchdogs have routinely criticised it as inhuman in its treatment of migrants. One organisation called the living conditions of asylum seekers “appalling” in a press statement last month.  “Ireland should be proudly open to granting asylum,” the ISF tweeted.  But beneath the dizzying array of memes and tenuous and obscure references, a cromulent question remains: Is it all a joke?  Page founder Jack Leahy told the Irish Mirror that it’s all serious.  “We are genuinely intending to register and have easily exceeded the number required,” Leahy said.  “Politics is changing and the idea of a Simpsons meme party honestly is no longer even a little crazy.  “I think it’s crazy that nearly 600 people would join a meme party this quickly.  “We always knew that working with such a big group would ensure a level of success for the concept anyway.  “”But mostly it’s because the group is full of 18-35 year olds who are expressing their political homelessness this way.  It’s clear that the party aims to embiggen Ireland, and the party is on track to actually being able to register as a party, under current legislation.  A party must include at least 300 recorded members above the age of 18 and have at least one member who is a member of the Dail (the lower house of Ireland’s parliament) or a representative of the European Parliament.


sputnik--2019-11-27--Priyanka Chopra Surprises Her Hubby Nick Jonas With Puppy Ahead of Their Wedding Anniversary

The couple's relations have always been gazing-stock as both Nick and Priyanka post beautiful photos of themselves together with unfailing regularity and share personal moments in their social media platforms.  It was thus not unexpected that they shared their pre-anniversary fuss. However, Priyanka decided to surprise her beloved husband with a cute unexpected present ahead of their wedding anniversary. PeeCee posted a video from NYC of Nick being woken up in the morning by a charming puppy, which was licking the singer's face and shaking him with its paws. The German Shepherd pupster turned out to be a present for Nick, who at first seemed a little bit confused and disoriented, but then he realized what was going on and accepted his new family member.  The couple has already named the doggo Gino and also created his personal Instagram account, which has already put up three posts, two of them show Nick and Gino hanging out together.


birminghammail--2019-04-06--Danielle Lloyd and Michael ONeill MARRY in secret Dubai beach wedding ceremony

Danielle Lloyd and Michael O'Neill MARRY 'in secret Dubai beach wedding ceremony'

Danielle Lloyd and Brummie electrician Michael O'Neill have tied the knot, according to reports.  The Sutton Coldfield-based former WAG wed Michael in a top secret ceremony in Dubai.  The sneaky pair exchanged vows today (Saturday, April 6) in the UAE, reports say.  The 35-year-old and Michael said "I do" with little fanfare - with pals vowing to keep the exciting news off social media.  Danielle's reps confirmed that the ceremony went ahead today.  An insider told  The Sun  that the wedding was "small" but incredibly romantic.  Everyone "was in tears" as the couple swapped vows, according to reports.  Danielle's four children - who are all boys - were involved in the ceremony.  She shares sons Archie, Harry and George with ex-husband Jamie O'Hara, a former Wolves star.  Danielle also has a son with Michael, named Ronnie.  The pair got married on the beach in front of the Burj Al Arab hotel, an insider revealed.  Danielle and Michael exchanged vows in a romantic moment as the sun went down.  Danielle met Michael in a Birmingham gym when he told her how she could do squat exercises better.  Their relationship got serious pretty quickly, as he proposed to her after just six months.  Danielle loves how he’s just a normal guy who isn’t interested in her fame – and she particularly loves the fact he’s a down-to-earth Brummie.  The former Miss GB who lives in Sutton Coldfield says: “I just love Birmingham and the people are so friendly and nice.  "Everyone is always so welcoming.”  Danielle added about Michael: “He’s not into the glitz and the glam, he doesn’t want to go to premieres or anything like that.  "He’s just a nice, down to earth person.  "He didn’t want to go out with me because of the fame.  "We like going for meals and playing with the kids, we love doing family stuff. I think that’s what I really need to concentrate on.”  Michael proposed to Danielle on Valentine’s Day 2016 at posh London hotel Claridge’s.  He had the diamond engagement ring specially made after designing it himself.


birminghammail--2019-11-14--Couple get married with pony invited to wedding as guest of honour

A happy couple have tied the knot at a special wedding ceremony where their PONY was the guest of honour.  Courtney and Ben Small have been together for years and decided they wanted to become man and wife.  They planned their perfect day, in the stunning grounds of St Elizabeth's House, in Plymouth, Devon, and wrote up a long guest list - with one special invitee.  And they made sure that their pet pony named Joker was able to attend to celebrate with them.  Majestic white-haired Joker took centre stage at the equestrian-friendly marriage ceremony, and even featured in the wedding pictures.  The pair were joined by family and friend for their memorable day, and volunteers from Hoofbeats Equine Rehabilitation Sanctuary including Sharon Vieira.  Sharon said: "We were so pleased to be able to help bring an extra special touch to the wedding.  "It was only right that Joker was able to be a part of the big day and we wanted to also repay all the hard work Courtney and Ben have done for us over the years."


drudgereport--2019-12-17--World's oldest married couple celebrate 80th wedding anniversary...

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Family and friends of the oldest married couple in the world helped them celebrate yet another major milestone on Wednesday.  There was no doubt about the celebratory atmosphere in the air as John and Charlotte Henderson, who call Austin home, celebrated their 80th anniversary.  The couple’s wedding day was all the way back on Dec. 22, 1939, months after the start of the Second World War – and last month, John, 106, and 105-year-old Charlotte were presented with a Guinness World Record for the oldest married couple.  But the celebrations were only starting, as Longhorn Village, the senior living community where the couple live, helped them throw a huge party for their 80th anniversary.  They pulled out all the stops – parked outside the building was a 1920s roadster, similar to the one that John used to pick up Charlotte for their first date all those years ago.  At the time, Charlotte was studying to become a teacher, while John was a football player for the Longhorns.  Jason Free, who helped his great-uncle and aunt claim the world record by alerting Guinness to their longevity, told KXAN what makes them so special.  READ MORE: World’s oldest couple lives in Austin; their advice for a happy life  “They are a wonderful couple, and an example of a very happy couple – glad to be around each other, travel together, and live life,” Jason said.  “They’ve always been very forward-looking people, always very positive about the future, looking forward to tomorrow and what the future holds.  “They’ll tell you the stories of the past, but they don’t dwell on the past – they remember it, but they look forward to the future, and they’ve always been that way.  “They’ve always been great to be around at the holidays, Christmas and Thanksgiving. During the football season they would always come to Austin before they moved here. [John] was always an avid UT football fan, so we could definitely always catch up and talk sports.”  Jim Bissett, a resident at Longhorn Village who has been friends with the couple for the last 10 years, told a story about helping John buy a new computer monitor.  When Jim told John that it came with a three-year warranty, John joked that it didn’t matter – he wouldn’t live that long.  That was about five years ago.  John may have been wrong, but the story shows his sense of humor, Jim said.  “They’re just gracious, nice, kind people. They’re salt of the earth,” he added.  Guests at the anniversary party were treated to a huge spread of food, while photos of the couple from over the years were projected onto a wall.  A long line of people formed to congratulate John and Charlotte, who will officially mark 80 years together on Dec. 22.


eveningstandard--2019-01-26--Barack and Michelle Obama From their wedding to having children the power coupleaposs greatest m

Barack and Michelle Obama: From their wedding to having children, the power couple's greatest moments

Life in the White House might be famous for its lack of privacy and punishing work schedule, but when Barack and Michelle Obama reliquished their First Couple roles in January 2017, after eight years in office, their marriage appeared stronger than ever.  From their first presidential campaign the relationship between Barack and Michelle Obama has been a source of both interest and envy. The couple, who married 26 years ago, even had their story immortalised on film in the 2016 movie Southside With You.  The Obamas met working at the same law firm in 1989, when Michelle Robinson found herself reluctant to fall for the charms of the summer associate. The two would go on to do extraordinary things together, having their two daughters, Malia and Sasha, along the way.  But despite their easy body language and public declarations of love, the Obamas have also been open about the tough patches in their marriage, including a stint in marriage counselling.  Scroll through our gallery above for their best on-camera moments - or read on below for the lowdown on the former First Couple.  The pair met in the summer of 1989, when Michelle was 25 years old and Barack was 27. Michelle - who was then Michelle Robinson - had been working as a law associate at Sidley & Austin for a year.  To her apparent dismay, she was assigned to mentor a first year law student who would be working with her as a summer associate. Enter the love of her life: Barack Obama.  Sidley & Austin didn’t typically take on first year law students for the summer, according to Business Insider, but Barack had apparently impressed them so much they decided to make an exception.  She told Good Morning America, “I have my suspicions when a bunch of white folks fawn all over a black man because I sorta think, 'Okay, he can talk straight so they think he's wonderful.' So that was my theory. And his name was Barack Obama and he was from Hawaii. I thought, 'What?' You know, so I didn't really know what to expect.”  She also told ABC News that as the pair were both Harvard alumni, she believed “the firm thought, ‘Oh, we’ll hook these two people up.’” Barack ended up arriving late at their first meeting, which didn't help.  Michelle told Good Morning America, “And then: in walks Barack Obama. And Barack Obama has always walked like Barack Obama - like he’s got all the time in the world, and I was like, ‘Dude, you’re cute.’ But in my mind, I was like ‘off-limits’. I’m not going to date one of the few black summer associates.”  Michelle told ABC News that Barack asked Michelle out “about a month in."  She said she initially shot him down, “I thought, ‘No way. This is completely tacky.’”  Eventually, she wound up saying yes, describing his behaviour as “very straightforward” - "he was not a game player”.  The two made a day of their first date, taking a stroll and heading to see a Spike Lee film Do the Right Thing. The site of their first kiss has now been commemorated with a plaque in Chicago.  Michelle told Good Morning America, “When we stopped for ice cream and he got the sense that I was starting to open up, and he played it real smooth. He just leaned in for a kiss and that really was it. From that kiss on, it was love and he was my man.”  The commemorative plaque is outside a former Baskin-Robbins in Hyde Park, Chicago and features a photograph of the pair on the verge of kissing. It’s accompanied by a quote from Barack that he gave to O magazine in 2007. “On our first date, I treated her to the finest ice cream Baskin-Robbins had to offer, our dinner table doubling as the curb. I kissed her, and it tasted like chocolate” he said.  Barack Obama was born on August 4, 1961 and is currently 57 years old. Michelle is two years younger and recently celebrated her birthday on January 17, when she turned 55 years old.  Last week Barack Obama wrote in a birthday message to Michelle, "I knew it way back then and I’m absolutely convinced of it today – you’re one of a kind."  On Barack’s birthday in 2017, Michelle shared an image from her husband's birthday celebrations, writing, “Another year older, but the same phenomenal guy I married nearly 25 years ago. Happy birthday, @BarackObama -- we love you so much!”  Barack and Michelle have two daughters Malia and Sasha, who are currently 20 years old and 17 years old respectively.  They also have one furry child, a Portuguese Water Dog called Bo.  According to the New York Post, Barack and Michelle Obama are estimated to be worth “more than $135 million” - around £104 million.  Since leaving the White House the pair has made some pretty lucrative deals. The Financial Times reported that the Obamas’ combined book deals for Michelle’s Becoming and an upcoming Barack-penned book about his time in the White House were worth $65 million (over £50 million), after Penguin Random House snagged the rights at auction.  The Obamas also made a deal with Netflix to produce various programmes and films for the platform, which a source at the New York Post  valued at more than $50 million (over £38.6 million).  There's also Barack’s $207,800 a year pension (about £160,270) as well as various speaking engagements. The New York Post also reported that Michelle’s speaking engagement fee is $225,000 per appearance (£173,540) while her husband comes in a $400,000 for an engagement (£308,500).  And that's just the beginning, apparently. A study conducted by Analytics@American, a business analytics department from American University, estimated that the family could make another $242 million (over £186.7 million) in the future.  According to Michelle, Barack was initially skeptical about marriage. She told The New Yorker, “We would have this running debate throughout our relationship about whether marriage was necessary. It was sort of a bone of contention, because I was, like, ‘Look, buddy, I’m not one of these who’ll just hang out forever.’”  Barack eventually took his girlfriend out to a restaurant in Chicago called Gordon, ostensibly to celebrate him passing the bar exam. She said, “[Barack] got me into one of these discussions again, where, you know, he sort of just led me down there and got fired up and it’s like you’ve got blah blah blah blah, and then dessert comes out, the tray comes out, and there’s a ring!”  The pair were married on October 3, 1992 at the Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago. Apparently Michelle’s brother walked her down the aisle and Barack’s brother was best man.  In a throwback posted to Instagram, she wrote “You can’t tell it from this photo, but Barack woke up on our wedding day in October, 1992 with a nasty head cold. Somehow, by the time I met him at the altar, it had miraculously disappeared and we ended up dancing almost all night.”  Their first dance was to Stevie Wonder’s You and I, after which they headed to California for their honeymoon.  Their marriage went through rough patches. Michelle suffered a miscarriage before eventually having their two daughters Malia and Sasha through IVF treatment.  In her memoir Becoming, Michelle said the pair also went to marriage counselling to work on their relationship when their stressful lifestyles got the best of them.  “I know too many young couples who struggle and think somehow, there’s something wrong with them,” Michelle told Good Morning America. “I want them to know that Michelle and Barack Obama — who have a phenomenal marriage and who love each other — we work on our marriage and we get help with our marriage when we need it.”  She added, “What I learned about myself [over the course of our marriage] was that my happiness was up to me and I started working out more, I started asking for help, not just from him but from other people. I stopped feeling guilty.”  Barack Obama gave one of his former staffers - co-host of podcast Pod Save America Dan Pfeiffer - advice ahead of his marriage to Howli Ledbetter.  Pfeiffer wrote in his book Yes We (Still) Can that Obama said to him, “Here’s the advice I give everyone about marriage - is she someone you find interesting? You will spend more time with this person than anyone else for the rest of your life, and there is nothing more important than always wanting to hear what she has to say about things.”  He also added, “Does she make you laugh? And I don’t know if you want kids, but if you do, do you think she will be a good mom? Life is long. These are the things that really matter over the long term.”  The former First Couple's relationship in their own words.  "There's no doubt I'm a better man having spent time with Michelle. I would never say that Michelle's a better woman, but I will say she's a little more patient." - Barack speaking to American Vogue, 2013  "Our job is, first and foremost, to make sure our family is whole. You know, we have small kids; they’re growing every day. But I think we were both pretty straightforward when we said, ‘Our number-one priority is making sure that our family is whole.’" - Michelle speaking to American Vogue, 2013  "What I realize as I get older is that Michelle is less concerned about me giving her flowers than she is that I'm doing things that are hard for me — carving out time. That to her is proof, evidence that I'm thinking about her.” - Barack speaking to Ebony, 2007  "He is steady. Has he made me mad? Yes. Does he sometimes do things that I don't like? Absolutely. But as a human being, he has never disappointed. And I would hope he could say the same about me." - Michelle speaking to O Magazine, 2009  "I've got to say, I always found it great if she was making all kinds of money. I didn't feel threatened by that at all. My grandmother generally earned more than my grandfather when I was in high school, so that probably makes me more comfortable with some of these issues than others would be." - Barack speaking to Marie Claire, 2008  "You don’t want to be with a boy who’s too stupid to appreciate a smart young lady. I want to encourage all of us as young women, as older women, we have to raise our own bars. If I had worried about who liked me and who thought I was cute when I was your age, I wouldn’t be married to the president of the United States today." - Michelle speaking at a Glamour-hosted panel, 2015  "There are times when we are lying in bed and I look over and sort of have a start. Because I realize here is this other person who is separate and different and has different memories and backgrounds and thoughts and feelings. It’s that tension between familiarity and mystery that makes for something strong, because, even as you build a life of trust and comfort and mutual support, you retain some sense of surprise or wonder about the other person." - Barack speaking in an interview published in The New Yorker in 2009  "Barack has helped me loosen up and feel comfortable with taking risks, not doing things the traditional way and sort of testing it out, because that is how he grew up. I’m more traditional; he’s the one in the couple that, I think, is the less traditional individual."- Michelle speaking in an interview published in 2009  "Michelle’s like Beyoncé in that song, ‘Let me upgrade ya!’ She upgraded me." - Barack speaking to American Vogue, 2013  "When the kids go to bed and after he's done a little reading, we're usually curled up in our den, and we'll watch a show together. Or we'll talk and catch up. It's nothing major, but that's what marriage is about. Not the big, splashy stuff.” - Michelle talking to Good Housekeeping, 2010  "The quality I love most about her is she's honest and genuine. I think that comes across to people. They get a sense that they can trust her. You know, the word 'authenticity' is overused these days. But I do think it captures what folks are looking for – not just in leaders, but also in friends and in coworkers – and that is, folks who are on the level. People like that tell you what they think and don't have a bunch of hidden motives. That's who Michelle is." - Barack speaking to Ladies' Home Journal, 2012  "Even though back then Barack was a senator and a presidential candidate ... to me, he was still the guy who'd picked me up for our dates in a car that was so rusted out, I could actually see the pavement going by through a hole in the passenger-side door." - Michelle speaking at the DNC in 2012  "For the past 25 years, you’ve not only been my wife and the mother of my children, you’ve been my best friend. You took on a role you didn’t ask for and you made it your own with grace, grit and style." - Barack addressing Michelle in his final speech as president  "[Barack's] temperament for the stressful part of the job is amazing. When I'm getting antsy and frustrated and tense, I just say, 'Talk me through it. Tell me why this is OK.' He's incredibly even-keeled, and he's always been good at understanding the bottom line of what's important. So the mission, the goal, is always out there. And sometimes you need to be reminded of that when things feel a little tough. So he helps a lot." - Michelle speaking to Good Housekeeping, 2010  "Anybody who knows her well knows she's got the best sense of humor of anyone you'd ever want to meet. She's the most quintessentially American person I know." - Barack speaking to Marie Claire, 2008  "I think my husband is wonderful; I view him as the leader I've always wanted to have for this nation. I want him to succeed because I think his success is ultimately our success as a nation." - Michelle speaking to Good Housekeeping, 2010  "If you were going to list the 100 most popular things that I have done as president, being married to Michelle Obama is number one." - Barack, after his State of the Union address in 2010  "It’s unfair to the institution of marriage, and it’s unfair for young people who are trying to build something, to project this perfection that doesn’t exist...The image of a flawless relationship is the last thing that we want to project." - Michelle speaking to the New York Times, 2009  It’s customary for American presidents and First Ladies to have their portraits painted as they leave office, which are then hung next to their predecessors' portraits in the National Portrait Gallery’s Hall of Presidents at the Smithsonian. As America’s first black presidential couple, it was an historic moment when the Obamas’ portraits were finally unveiled on February 12, 2018.  The portraits were striking for a number of reasons, but particularly because two leading black artists had been commissioned to create their paintings. For Barack Obama’s portrait, the talents of Kehinde Wiley were called upon. He depicted the president against one of his signature oversaturated backdrops, complete with greenery and delicate florals. Although Wiley initially wanted to “depict Obama on a throne, holding a sceptre or perhaps even riding a horse” according to The Guardian, Barack quickly shot down that idea and was painted sitting in an ordinary wooden chair.  After the unveiling, Barack wrote, “To call this experience humbling would be an understatement. Thanks to Kehinde and Amy, generations of Americans — and young people from all around the world — will visit the National Portrait Gallery and see this country through a new lens. They’ll walk out of that museum with a better sense of the America we all love. Clear-eyed. Big-hearted. Inclusive and optimistic. And I hope they’ll walk out more empowered to go and change their worlds.”  Michelle Obama’s portrait was painted by Amy Sherald. According to Artnet the painting was so popular the gallery had to move it to a completely separate room.  The weight of the moment was not lost on Michelle, who took to Instagram and wrote a meaningful message about the representation of black women in art. “As a young girl, even in my wildest dreams, I never could have imagined this moment" she wrote, "Nobody in my family has ever had a portrait - there are no portraits of the Robinsons or the Shields from the South Side of Chicago.”  She added, “This is all a little bit overwhelming, especially when I think about all of the young people who will visit the National Portrait Gallery and see this, including so many young girls and young girls of color who don’t often see their images displayed in beautiful and iconic ways. I am so proud to help make that kind of history.”


eveningstandard--2019-01-29--Groom walks for miles in heavy snow to attend wedding ceremony in India

A groom in India has trekked nearly four miles in heavy snow to attend his wedding ceremony.  Around 80 people were due to attend the wedding on Friday, but as they left from Triyuginarayan village, they became stranded in traffic after roads were closed by the snow.  The family decided to send only the guests who were needed for the traditional wedding rituals including the groom’s uncle, sisters and elderly relatives, the Hindustan Times reported.  Dressed in their wedding attire, the family began the six kilometre (3.7 mile) long procession to the ceremony on foot.  But, asked if it was a difficult journey, the groom’s brother, Ashish Gairola, told the paper: “If you see the pictures then you would question whether they were even feeling cold, forget difficulty. My eight-year-old son played with snow throughout the way.”  Bijay Lal, head of Triyuginarayan village, said despite the unusually long procession, the wedding went off without a hitch.  “Even I had to go to the wedding but (we) were all stuck due to the snow,” he told the paper.  “But those who went enjoyed the whole journey and the wedding took place without any problem.”  The snow has caused major disruption to the village, which has been without power for seven days.


eveningstandard--2019-02-04--Revenge cast Emily VanCamp and Josh Bowmanaposs wedding How the co-stars got married in real life

Revenge cast Emily VanCamp and Josh Bowman's wedding: How the co-stars got married in real life

They first met filming TV drama Revenge, now former co-stars Emily VanCamp and Josh Bowman have tied the knot in The Bahamas.  VanCamp shared pictures of herself and Bowman, who got engaged in May 2017 while out on a hike, on Instagram. “Thank you to all of our friends and family who made their way to celebrate with us. We are eternally grateful,” the actress wrote.  The bride's wedding gown was by designer Lela Rose and featured a beautiful lace cowl neck.  VanCamp was in Captain America: The Winter Soldier and is currently starring in the second season of The Resident a Fox medical drama. Bowman recently appeared in an episode of Doctor Who with Jodie Whittaker.  VanCamp shared a few shots pre-wedding on her Instagram account too, which showed the beautiful Caribbean setting where the couple got married.  Looks pretty dreamy to us. Huge congratulations to Josh and Emily.


eveningstandard--2019-02-14--Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin apospush back wedding plans to focus on his mental wellnessapos

Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin 'push back wedding plans to focus on his mental wellness'

Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin are reportedly putting their plans for a second wedding ceremony on hold to allow him to “focus on himself”.  The young couple officially tied the knot last year in a secret ceremony but were reportedly set to have a religious ceremony sometime soon to celebrate with friends and family.  However, reports claim that the plans have been put on hold while Bieber “focuses on getting well mentally”.  “They will have a wedding ceremony with family and friends eventually,” a source told PEOPLE.  “However, right now, Justin’s focus is getting well mentally. Justin is doing okay. He is very focused and committed to getting help. Hailey is very supportive — Justin is very open about that Hailey does nothing but help him.”  The insider added that the pair were “focused on a happy marriage” and their lives together, having rekindled their romance last summer.  Last month, it was claimed that the duo had sent out “save the date” cards to their loved ones five months after their courthouse ceremony.  US publication Page Six claimed that no location had been set for the February 28 bash but that dancers were “already in rehearsal” and the party was “being styled”.  Bieber, 24, and Baldwin, 22, were rumoured to have married in New York City back in September but both initially denied the reports, which included claims Bieber had referred to his “wife” in public several times.  The model eventually confirmed that they had wed in the subtlest of ways by changing her Instagram handle to @HaileyBieber and her bio to read Hailey Rhode Bieber.  Standard Online has contacted representatives for Bieber for comment.


eveningstandard--2019-02-15--Miley Cyrus shares adorable new wedding photos with Liam Hemsworth for Valentineaposs Day

Miley Cyrus shares adorable new wedding photos with Liam Hemsworth for Valentine's Day

Miley Cyrus shared some unseen snaps from her wedding to Liam Hemsworth to celebrate their first Valentine’s Day as a married couple.  The superstar pair tied the knot in a private ceremony last December, only sharing a few photos on social media to announce the happy news.  But Cyrus gave fans a closer look at their big day as they marked Valentine’s Day on Thursday with a series of cute snaps.  Cyrus, 26, and Hemsworth, 29, looked loved-up as they cuddled at their wedding reception – although the singer couldn’t help but make a funny face – before sharing a joke at one of the tables.  Cyrus also shared three shots of her in her ivory satin dress, clutching her bouquet in two while she was busy dancing in the other.  The Nothing Breaks Like A Heart singer also posted a picture of the newlyweds embracing beneath the floral arch  “Thank you for always bending down to hug me ... I promise I will always meet you in the middle on my tippiest toes! I love you Valentine! @liamhemsworth,” captioned Cyrus.  Cyrus is no stranger to sweet social media tributes on important days, recently penning an open letter to Hemsworth on his birthday in which she listed her “favourite things” about him .  “HBD to my  #1… When we met you were 19, today you are 29,” she wrote on Instagram and Twitter.  “I thought I could share some of my favourite things about my favourite dude in honour of this very special day.  “The way you look at me, the way you look at our dogs… our pigs, our horses, our cats, our fish. The way you look at your family… your friends… at strangers… at life. The look on your face when you receive good news and how you look at the bad news.”  After listening all these positives, Cyrus jokingly shared some of Hemsworth’s less than favourable habits, including his fondness for leaving “dirty socks on the floor,” and turned them on their head.  The couple first met on the set of Nicholas Sparks adaptation The Last Song, and dated from 2010 to 2012 before calling it quits. However, after a three-year-hiatus, they rekindled the romance in 2015.


eveningstandard--2019-02-26--40 wedding photos that perfectly capture the emotion and hilarity of the big day

There is nothing quite like a wedding, and what makes them so special are all the individual moments spread throughout the day.  From the bride sharing a whisper with her father before going down the aisle, or the shy flower girl kidnapping some canapes, we want to make sure these special moments, and the incredible wedding photographers that capture them, are celebrated.  This year, once again, Bridebook challenged hundreds of Bridebook’s best wedding photographers to send us their most unique, funny, tender and outrageous wedding photos from their 2018 weddings, so we could share those magical moments for all to enjoy.  So without further ado, here are our favourite wedding photos of 2018.  How many times do you get an opportunity to take a picture of the bride on a roller coaster? This was one of the most exciting moments in this photographer’s career (we just wonder how he did it…).  This bride and groom snuck into a telephone box at the Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, where they tied the knot.  The photographer caught these lads having a laugh and a beer in the bathtub! They got ready in a jiffy and had plenty of time to relax before the wedding.  Pit stop! That’s what bridesmaids are for, no?  This photo was taken just as this little girl’s mother (the bride), stepped out of the room in her wedding dress. Her expression says it all.  The best man had just told a rather risqué story about the groom and the range of reactions at his punchline are incredible.  Yawns and bubbles. This baby’s nap-time wasn’t going to stop her dad from toasting the bride and groom.  The couple’s gorgeous dog was brought along to the wedding and had some big kisses for dad.  These kids were trying to wind their grandmother up as she kept telling them to behave.  A very heavy downpour catches wedding guests as they head to the village church in Leicestershire. A classic British wedding.  Dad witnessing all the chaos as the girls get prepared.  A 7-foot dinosaur on the dance floor? Looks like this Bridezilla found her match.  Happy tears begin to flow with the bride’s brother cradling his daughter while watching his sister, the bride, dancing with their father.  Grandma seeing her grandaughter in her wedding dress for the very first time – a very emotional moment for all.  Veil stuck on a hedge, new husband comes to the rescue.  You might look stunning but no one said putting the dress on was easy. Which is why every bride needs their squad of bridesmaids.  Hindu weddings are packed with symbolism. Here Pooja’s parents come together to place the final pieces of jewellery before her ceremony.  This groom couldn’t hold in the tears alongside his best man, as his bride walked into their wedding.  This mum couldn’t hide her excitement as she watched the ceremony.  The in-between moments, where guests come to greet each other before the party, are often the most beautiful and filled with love.  This dad was very emotional upon seeing his beautiful daughter in her wedding dress.  These groomsmen waited patiently as the bride and groom signed their names. The moment was captured beautifully.  Who doesn’t love smoke bombs in front of a beautiful stately home? Woodhall Manor looks amazing in this shot.  Double trouble. One of 2018’s biggest trends was llamas at weddings. Let’s just hope the trend continues.  This was a shot taken at Tower Hill Barns in North Wales. These little pageboys were having great fun in the camper van and their playfulness makes for a great photo.  This newborn baby was just a couple of weeks old, and when the mum brought her to show the bride, everyone in the room wanted to take turns holding her. We love the blissed out expression on her face.  This photographer got the wedding guests involved with their phones during the reception to make this original photo.  This bride wanted their dog in the picture as they signed the papers. The photographer got the perfect angle.  Photographers often crack jokes to keep family photos fun and energetic. This granny said she had something to make everyone laugh, and with a serious face, flashed the photographer.  A lovely moment is captured as the bride and groom dance. If only everyone could look that majestic during their first dance.  The bride and groom didn’t want to do a traditional first dance, so they taught themselves to dance to ‘Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger’ by Daft Punk.  These ushers got creative when asked to move the floral arrangements from the church up to the marquee.  During the cake cutting, the groom noticed a bottle of Champagne on the table and immediately grabbed it. His wife said no… but it was far too late.  A tender moment between the groom and his bride during his speech.  One of the most beautiful photos on the list. We love how the photographer capture this fairytale moment.  These lovely brides having a moment to themselves, overlooking the Cornish coast before their wedding takes place.  These grooms had their reception at a golf course but it rained, but that didn’t stop them from having lots of fun outside in the rain.


eveningstandard--2019-02-28--Cherry Seaborn and Ed Sheeran from childhood sweethearts to a low-key aposwinter weddingapos

Cherry Seaborn and Ed Sheeran: from childhood sweethearts to a low-key 'winter wedding'

The wedding is thought to have been an intimate gathering, with only the couple’s oldest school friends and limited family invited.  The former school friends, who have been dating since 2015, married at the singer's country estate in Suffolk, according to The Sun, with a source close to Sheeran describing the celebrations as "something entirely for them - just a tiny winter wedding."  Here’s your need-to-know on Sheeran’s childhood sweetheart and their heart-warming love story to date:  How did Ed Sheeran and Cherry Seaborn meet?  The pair both attended Thomas Mills High School in Framlingham, Suffolk, where Sheeran was in the year above Seaborn.  They are thought to have struck up a close friendship in their teens, with Sheeran reportedly having a crush on Seaborn, who had a boyfriend at the time.  When did they get together?  While Sheeran famously stayed on friends’ sofas while working hard for a big break in the music industry, Seaborn was busy studying for a degree in cell and molecular biology at Durham University.  She went on to study for a masters at Duke University (coincidentally located in Durham, North Carolina), where she was on the varsity hockey team.  Seaborn was working in America on Wall Street when she reconnected with school friend Sheeran in 2015, and the pair were soon spotted attending sports matches together.  Things appeared to be getting serious when Seaborn appeared in an Instagram post shared by Taylor Swift’s best friend Abigail Anderson from the singer’s famous Fourth of July party in 2016.  The snap showed partygoers (including an embracing Sheeran and Seaborn) posing in front of a banner that congratulated the couple on reaching their one year anniversary.  Indeed, Swift’s Independence Day extravaganzas hold a special significance for the couple, as Sheeran revealed to People last year.  “[Seaborn] worked on Wall Street in New York, and I had like six shows [in New York in 2015,” he told the magazine. “It was around then, and we reconnected.  “I went on tour again, and then I went to Taylor’s 4th of July party. I was texting [Seaborn] and she was like, ‘I’m in Rhode Island at a 4th of July party,’ and I was like, ‘So am I.’  “I kinda said to Taylor, ‘Can I invite one of my old schoolmates?’ The rest is history.”  The pair have since moved back to England, where Seaborn works in risk advisory for financial services firm Deloitte, and are thought to divide their time between London and Suffolk, where the singer owns several homes.  When did the couple get engaged?  Sheeran confirmed news of his engaged in January 2018, when he shared a sweet Instagram photo of himself embracing his girlfriend with the caption: “Got myself a fiancé [sic] just before new year.  “We are very happy and in love, and our cats are chuffed as well xx.”  Shortly after, the singer told an Australian radio station that he and his girlfriend had started "wearing rings" so that "nobody will know when we have got married."  How old is Cherry Seaborn?  Seaborn is 26 years old, while Sheeran recently turned 28 on February 17.


eveningstandard--2019-05-01--Billie Faiers aposfrustratedapos by holidaymakers who apostarnishedapos wedding with aposr

Billie Faiers 'frustrated' by holidaymakers who 'tarnished' wedding with 'rowdy behaviour' claims

Billie Faiers has addressed “ridiculous and frustrating” claims that her wedding guests behaved in a ‘rowdy’ and ‘yobbish’ manner while celebrating in the Maldives.  The Mummy Diaries star tied the knot with partner Greg Shepherd on the island of Kuramathi in March. They were joined by a group of 95 family and friends, including sister Sam, who acted as Maid of Honour, and former TOWIE star Ferne McCann.  The wedding party attracted a slew of negative headlines, with fellow holidaymakers claiming that their time at the luxury resort had been ruined.  In a new interview with MailOnline, the 29-year-old said it was “a shame” that people had attempted to “tarnish” her celebrations by “trying to sell stories” about the group.  “It wasn’t even a group of guests as far as we know,” she told the publication. “One guest in particular shouted it across the beach one day, ‘This will all be in the press tomorrow,’ He was clearly trying to sell stories on us across the holiday.  “It was so ridiculous because our events were private, the island was huge. We were just having fun. It’s a shame people were trying to tarnish the wedding.  “One guest sold a story saying one of the best men fell off the bar and broke his leg but actually he hurt his knee in a football game.”  The reality star said that her friends and family had been left in “shock” by the claims.  “We had so much fun. It was more when the holiday ended and we went on our honeymoon that it sunk in,” she said.  “Everyone was in shock, we just had to laugh about it in the end. It was so ridiculous and frustrating for me.  “I thought this is the most amazing beautiful wedding, we’re all having fun, not one person was being rude or outrageous to other guests.  “They were trying to make out we were all really badly behaved and we weren’t.”  Faiers previously addressed the reports in a post-wedding interview with OK!, telling the magazine: “The hotel manager hasn’t had any complaints about our party.  “I was half expecting some loudness as there are 95 of us out here celebrating [but] we have always been very respectful of the island and the other guests holidaying here.”  The Mummy Diaries: The Wedding airs on ITVBe on May 1 at 9pm


eveningstandard--2019-05-01--The Mummy Diaries The Wedding Everything you need to know about Billie Faiers and Greg Shepherdap

The Mummy Diaries: The Wedding: Everything you need to know about Billie Faiers and Greg Shepherd's big day

After endless headlines (and endless Instagram posts) the reality TV event of the year has finally arrived.  Billie Faiers and Greg Shepherd have invited fans to take a front row seat at their lavish Maldives nuptials in The Mummy Diaries: The Wedding.  The Mummy Diaries spin-off charts the couple's extensive preparations in the lead up to the big day - with a few family dramas along the way - and will also document their special beach ceremony on the island of Kuramathi.  Here's everything you need to know beforehand. Maldives here we come!  What is The Mummy Diaries: The Wedding all about?  After a five year engagement and 12 months of preparation, Faiers, Shepherd and 95 of their closest family and friends – including younger sister Sam, who will serve as Maid of Honour – are ready to jet off to the Maldives for their wedding extravaganza.  The couple head to Kuramathi one week before the ceremony, but their pre-wedding getaway isn’t free from drama: Faiers learns that her dad Dave has been unable to travel after experiencing an adverse reaction to sleeping pills and alcohol.  When the big day arrives, things eventually run smoothly, though with a group of young bridesmaids (including daughter Nelly and niece Rosie) to keep out of trouble, the Faiers sisters have their work cut out – and Shepherd is left waiting at the altar.  Once the couple have exchanged vows, the action moves to the beach club reception, where four-year-old Nelly has prepared a special speech for her parents.  Discussing the wedding with OK! ahead of the show, Faiers described the special event as "a fairy tale."  "Other than the days that Nelly and Arthur were born, it was the best day of my life," she said. "It was like a fairy tale - all the stress and tears were worth.  "It's so lovely for me to finally be a Shepherd and share a surname with my children. Marriage ties our little family together completely."  What time is The Mummy Diaries: The Wedding on TV?  The 90 minute special is set to air on May 1 at 9pm on ITVBe.


eveningstandard--2019-06-19--Who is Doria Ragland Meghan Markleaposs momaposs wedding age and all you need to know

Who is Doria Ragland? Meghan Markle's mom's wedding, age and all you need to know

The Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle appears to have a very close relationship with her mother, Doria Ragland.  Ragland has been a reassuring presence at Markle’s biggest royal moments thus far: her wedding (where she walked arm-in-arm from the church with Prince Charles) and the birth of her first born, Archie.  She was also at her daughter's side when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex introduced Archie to Prince Phillip and the Queen.  Ragland, 62, was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1956. Her mother worked as a nurse while her father was an antique dealer.  Ragland’s family moved to Los Angeles when she was young where she attended high school at Fairfax High School.  She worked as a makeup artist after her graduation and met her ex-husband Thomas Markle while working on TV show General Hospital. Ragland worked as a travel agent and went on to earn a social work license. She married Thomas Markle in 1979 and divorced him in 1987 after Meghan Markle’s birth.  Up until days before her daughter’s wedding in 2018, Ragland worked as a social worker at Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services Clinic in Culver City, L.A.  Her interest in social justice clearly impacted her daughter as Meghan is also a huge advocate for humanitarian issues, like women’s rights.  In 2017, Markle wrote an op-ed for Time on the stigma surrounding menstruation, and since becoming a royal has continued her philanthropic efforts by working with organizations like the Hubb Community Kitchen, a kitchen ran by those who survived the Grenfell Tower fire.  Markle wrote about her mother’s lifestyle on her old blog, The Tig. One post read, “Dreadlocks. Nose ring. Yoga instructor. Social worker. Free spirit. Lover of potato chips & lemon tarts. And if the DJ cues Al Green’s soul classic ‘Call Me,’ just forget it. She will swivel her hips into the sweetest little dance you’ve ever seen, swaying her head and snapping her fingers to the beat like she’s been dancing since the womb. And you will smile. You won’t be able to help it. You will look at her and you will feel joy. I’m talking about my mom.”  Ragland teaches yoga in Los Angeles and influenced Markle to start practicing at the age of seven.  Markle is now a yoga fan, but it hasn't always been that way. “Yoga is my thing,” Markle told Best Health. “I was very resistant as a kid, but [my mother] said, ‘Flower [Ragland’s nickname for Meghan], you will find your practice — just give it time.’ In college, I started doing it more regularly.”  In addition to yoga, Ragland also loves running – in fact, she has run in the L.A. Marathon.  Despite the huge life change undergone by her daughter in the last few years, she and Markle are still close. The Duchess had her mother closely involved in the royal wedding planning – Markle flew out to L.A. to explain to her mother how the big day would go, according to royal contributor Omid Scobie.  “It was in Los Angeles that she arrived equipped with sketches from the wedding and of the wedding dress itself, so she could really give her mom some insight on how the big day will look,” Scobie said on Good Morning America.  Ragland was staying with Meghan for the birth of Archie, and she was even included in the official royal statement, which read, “The Duchess’s mother, Doria Ragland, who is overjoyed by the arrival of her first grandchild, is with Their Royal Highnesses at Frogmore Cottage.”