Luisa Zissman Announces Engagement To Mystery Man: Former 'Apprentice' Star Shares Diamond Ring Snap On Instagram

October 11, 2014, 2:14 am

≫ Next: Kelly Brook And David McIntosh Nude Photos: Former Couple In Twitter Spat As Naked Photos Leak Online

≪ Previous: Edward Snowden Tells His Story For First Time In 'CITIZENFOUR' Documentary By Laura Poitras (EXCLUSIVE TRAILER)

Luisa Zissman has announced her engagement, sharing a photo of her diamond ring on Twitter.

The former ‘Apprentice’ star has been dating a mystery man for quite some time and on Friday evening, she shared her happy news on Instagram.

Luisa shared a snap of her engagement ring, with the caption: “Feeling like the luckiest girl in the world.”

While the star has publicly addressed her relationship in the past, she’s careful not to identify her mystery fella, stating that she doesn’t want their relationship to play out in the public eye.

In recent weeks, Luisa has dropped off the radar slightly and turned her attentions to her business ventures.

Luisa Zissman

However, Luisa was recently involved in a public spat with Alan Sugar, after the businessman hit out, declaring that Luisa and her fellow former ‘Apprentice’ star Katie Hopkins would “turn up to the opening of an envelope".

Luisa took to Twitter to slam Lord Sugar, writing: “Sugar can't bear the fact that some ex apprentice non winners are more successful than the actual winners. Ego won't allow it."

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Kelly Brook And David McIntosh Nude Photos: Former Couple In Twitter Spat As Naked Photos Leak Online

October 11, 2014, 2:47 am

≫ Next: ‘X Factor': Simon Cowell Slams Finalist Chloe Jasmine Ahead Of Live Shows

≪ Previous: Luisa Zissman Announces Engagement To Mystery Man: Former 'Apprentice' Star Shares Diamond Ring Snap On Instagram

Kelly Brook and David McIntosh have had a public spat on Twitter, following the announcement of their split last month.

Until now, the formerly engaged couple have both been silent on their recent break-up, however Kelly couldn’t resist sending her former flame a tweet, when pics purporting to show the former ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ housemate naked surfaced online.

kelly brook david

Kelly and David in happier times

Kelly appeared to be the first to hit out, writing to David to tell him that his private parts weren’t so private anymore, however the model has now deleted her tweets.

David didn’t take long to reply though, writing: “silly me for sending pictures to someone I thought I could trust but then would leak them #byaccident.”

The online feud continued, with Kel posting: “Your Ego is beyond. David all my US iCloud pics are online not just of you. Be a grown up."

Until last month, David and Kelly were planning their wedding after a whirlwind romance led to their engagement.

kelly brook

Kelly is currently in LA

Kelly is thought to have been the victim of a vicious hacking attack, as her nude photos were shared online earlier this week.

The star released a statement following the publication of the snaps, echoing Jennifer Lawrence’s comments on her photo scandal and labelling the leak a “sex crime”.

Kel surprised fans when she announced her split from David via Twitter, writing: “It's a sad Day but I wanted to share with you that David and I are no longer engaged. I love and respect him and wish him all the best.”

Obviously things have soured since then.

Kelly is currently in the US, where she’s about to begin filming a new show.

Over the course of their relationship, David was accused of using Kelly to heighten his own celebrity status, with former ‘Big Brother’ housemate Chanelle Hayes - who he once took on a date to Pizza Hut - describing him as a “fame-hungry scrounger”.

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‘X Factor': Simon Cowell Slams Finalist Chloe Jasmine Ahead Of Live Shows

October 11, 2014, 3:19 am

≫ Next: ‘TOWIE': Ferne McCann And Chloe Simms' Spat Continues In 'The Only Way Is Ibiza' (PICS)

≪ Previous: Kelly Brook And David McIntosh Nude Photos: Former Couple In Twitter Spat As Naked Photos Leak Online

Simon Cowell has given his verdict on the ‘X Factor’ finalists, and Chloe Jasmine probably won’t be too pleased when she hears the music mogul’s comments.

Despite praising the singer during the audition stages, Simon has now slammed Chloe, stating that he doesn’t think she’ll cut it in the competition.

Chloe Jasmine is being mentored by Cheryl Fernandez-Versini

Speaking to The Sun, Simon explains: “I don’t think she will go too far in the contest, if I’m honest.

“I just don’t think the audience will warm to her. She is a sweet girl but ditzy.”

Since her first audition, Chloe has divided opinions and while the judges have praised her, a number of viewers have disliked the singer, criticising her posh accent.

Ahead of her first attempt at impressing the judges, Chloe was described as a “fashion model” and she previously appeared on the reality TV show ‘The Face’.

Simon Cowell

However, it hasn’t all been smooth-sailing for the singer and earlier this week, it was revealed that snaps from one of her x-rated, NSFW shoots are still viewable online.

Cheryl's decision to keep Chloe in the competition was also called into question by viewers, who complained when the judge swapped the singer into her final six at the last minute.

Tonight (Saturday 11 October) the live shows begin, and Chloe will be up against hopefuls including Blonde Electra and male singer Andrea. Four wildcard choices will also be revealed.

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‘TOWIE': Ferne McCann And Chloe Simms' Spat Continues In 'The Only Way Is Ibiza' (PICS)

October 11, 2014, 3:52 am

≫ Next: ‘Coronation Street' Spoiler: Cilla Battersby-Brown Is Back! Fiz's Mum Returns To Weatherfield (PICS)

≪ Previous: ‘X Factor': Simon Cowell Slams Finalist Chloe Jasmine Ahead Of Live Shows

Things aren’t getting any better for Ferne McCann and Chloe Sims, who are set to continue arguing in Sunday’s episode of ‘TOWIE’.

For the current series, the gang have jetted off to Ibiza, however, that hasn’t stopped the usual rows, disputes and cat fights.

towie ferne

Ferne is left in tears following (another) argument with Chloe

Ferne and Chloe’s feud has raged on, despite the fact Ferne is still dating Chloe’s brother Charlie.

After constant arguments, the pair’s friends have had enough, with Mario and Jess both revealing that they feel stuck in the middle.

Things aren’t going too well for Danielle and James either, as they struggle to repair their relationship and Danielle is also still coming to terms with her recent miscarriage.

During the week, ‘TOWIE’ stars Dan Osborne and Lewis Bloor took their feud off-screen, exchanging a number of tweets following the incidents in Wednesday’s episode.

See all the snaps from Sunday night’s ‘The Only Way Is Ibiza’ below...

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‘Coronation Street' Spoiler: Cilla Battersby-Brown Is Back! Fiz's Mum Returns To Weatherfield (PICS)

October 12, 2014, 1:23 am

≫ Next: ‘Emmerdale' Spoiler: Robert Sugden Arrives At Home Farm - How Will Andy And Katie React? (PIC)

≪ Previous: ‘TOWIE': Ferne McCann And Chloe Simms' Spat Continues In 'The Only Way Is Ibiza' (PICS)

Tyrone and Fiz get a shock ‘Coronation Street’ next week, when Cilla Battersby-Brown makes a surprise return.

Viewers last saw Cilla six years ago when swapped the cobbles for cocktails, and moved to Las Vegas, though things obviously haven’t gone to plan.

coronation street cilla

We're pleased to see you Cilla, don't worry!

When she returns, her kids Chesney and Fiz are understandably less than impressed, and according to reports, they’re set to be disappointed even further when Cilla reveals her huge secret.

Wendi Peters, who plays Cilla, has previously shared her joy at returning to the soap, while Jennie McAlpine - who stars as Fiz - has promised fans that Cilla will show her emotional side.

“First of all she just turns up,” Jennie explained. “We've not heard from her, she's never met her grandchildren, we weren't expecting her, we don't know why she's turned up.

“She's very loving - or appears to be very loving. She wants to meet the grandkids and wants to spend time with them.

“It's been lovely because we've had some really nice, sensitive scenes.”

There have been a few arrivals in Weatherfield lately, and earlier this month Kylie’s troublesome ex Callum turned up, ready to cause some trouble.

Michael Le Vell has also made his long-awaited ‘Corrie’ return as Kevin Webster, following an extended break from the show.

Watch ‘Coronation Street’ on Wednesday 22 October to see the events unfold.

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‘Emmerdale' Spoiler: Robert Sugden Arrives At Home Farm - How Will Andy And Katie React? (PIC)

October 12, 2014, 1:26 am

≫ Next: ‘X Factor' Review: Chloe Jasmine Wows Judges, Boyband Reveal New Name And Double Elimination Twist And Wildcards Are Announced (VIDEO)

≪ Previous: ‘Coronation Street' Spoiler: Cilla Battersby-Brown Is Back! Fiz's Mum Returns To Weatherfield (PICS)

While the villagers are still reeling from recent shocking events in ‘Emmerdale’, there’s a new family at Home Farm, and ready to cause trouble.

However, while some of the family have never set foot in The Dales before, one person will definitely cause shockwaves - Robert Sugden.

Andy gets a nasty surprise

In many ways, Robert isn’t the same lad who left - literally, in that he’s being played by a new character… - but will his brother Andy give him a chance?

When Robert’s fiancé Chrissie arrives to check out Home Farm, Nicola refuses to take her seriously and convinces Andy and Katie to dress up, in an attempt to put her off.

However, things turn sour when Robert turns up, recognises his brother and rumbles their ploy.

‘Emmerdale’ Series Producer Kate Oates previously revealed details of Robert’s return, stating: “Home Farm has always been the seat of power in ‘Emmerdale’.

“Robert's going to have to prove himself worthy - not just of the big House on the Hill, but of Lawrence's daughter, Chrissie. But will the ghosts of his past hold him back?”

Watch ‘Emmerdale’ on Thursday 23 October to see the events unfold.

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‘X Factor' Review: Chloe Jasmine Wows Judges, Boyband Reveal New Name And Double Elimination Twist And Wildcards Are Announced (VIDEO)

October 12, 2014, 2:31 am

≫ Next: ‘Strictly Come Dancing': Frankie Bridge Lands First Ten Of The Series As Judy Murray Fails To Impress (PICS)

≪ Previous: ‘Emmerdale' Spoiler: Robert Sugden Arrives At Home Farm - How Will Andy And Katie React? (PIC)

The first of this year’s ‘X Factor’ live shows went off with a bang on Saturday night, as Dermot O’Leary announced two twists.

While the confirmation of this year’s wildcard contestants - Lola Saunders, Overload Generation, Stevi Ritchie and Jack Walton - wasn’t exactly a total shock, the hopefuls were all left stunned when a double elimination was announced.

Paul Akister then had the job of opening the show, with a rendition of Ella Henderson’s ‘Ghost’, before Lola Saunders took on Sam Smith’s ‘Stay With Me’.

Both acts received praise from the judges, however Simon Cowell wasn’t a fan of Lola’s ensemble.

“I don't like what you're wearing, and I'll tell you why. You look like you've been wrapped up in tape. I think it's really important that you dress and do what you want to do,” he told her.

Next up was the One Direction tribute group Overload Generation, whose rendition of ‘I Kissed A Girl’ was later eclipsed completely by the new boyband - now called Stereo Kicks - with their version of Katy Perry’s ‘Roar’.

Jay James won praise from Simon Cowell for his performance of Sigma’s ‘Changing’, with the music mogul applauding the fact he took a risk.

However, Simon didn’t have many kind words for Stephanie Nala, following her performance of ‘Everything I Own’, telling her: “When you want an ice cream sundae and you get sorbet, it is kind of disappointing. And that's what it felt like. I think you'd be more comfortable in a girl band.”

The task of putting a different spin on things fell to Jack Walton, whose acoustic rendition of Rihanna’s ‘Only Girl In The World’, offered something a little different, winning him praise for Cheryl Fernandez-Versini.

Next up was Chloe Jasmine, who hasn’t exactly had the easiest week. While Chloe’s received a lot of attention, it hasn’t all been positive and the singer was shown shedding a few tears in her VT, leading to comments from the judges urging her to toughen up.

Even so, she pulled off a fantastic jazz rendition of Britney Spears’ hit ‘Toxic’.

Somebody had to disappoint big time though, and it was Stevi and his performance of ‘Livin La Vida Loca’ which ha Mel B asking if it was actually all a joke.

Simon stood by him though, remaining insistent that he’d be in the competition “longer than most of Cheryl’s girls” because people love him. If you say so, Si…

Mel B was left feeling “proud” when Lauren Platt pulled off Pharrell’s ‘Happy’, while Blonde Electra’s ‘Kids In America’ was… umm, let’s just call the whole thing an assault on the senses.

Simon’s choice of song for Ben Haenow received mixed responses and while his rendition of ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ was hard to criticise it was definitely more sobering than the rest of the evening’s performances.

Returning contestant Jake Quickenden was next up, with a decidedly average rendition of ‘She’s The One’, before Fleur East kept things contemporary with ‘All About That Bass’.

Finally, Only The Young and Andrea Faustini were up, performing ‘Jailhouse Rock’-meets-’Twist And Shout’ and ‘Earth Song’, respectively.

While Only The Young failed to impress, Andrea’s performance ticked all the boxes, with his mentor Mel declaring him the winner.

"You sing with so much passion. It is Italy's loss, Britain's gain,” added Simon. “And after that performance, you must be one of the red hot favourites.”

Along with the eliminations, Sunday’s show will also see performances from Taylor Swift and Pharrell Williams.

See all the performances from the first ‘X Factor’ live show below…

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‘Strictly Come Dancing': Frankie Bridge Lands First Ten Of The Series As Judy Murray Fails To Impress (PICS)

October 12, 2014, 3:24 am

≫ Next: ‘EastEnders' Spoiler: Soap Bosses Cast New Actor James Bye As Martin Fowler (PIC)

≪ Previous: ‘X Factor' Review: Chloe Jasmine Wows Judges, Boyband Reveal New Name And Double Elimination Twist And Wildcards Are Announced (VIDEO)

Frankie Bridge beat Jake Wood to become the first of this year’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ contestants to receive a 10 from one of the judges.

However, not everybody did so well, and Judy Murray and Mark Wright’s performances left Len Goodman and the judges - including guest judge Donny Osmond - looking less than impressed.

Frankie and Kevin

Frankie and her partner Kevin Clifton nabbed a 10 from Donny and - with high scores from the other judges - she shot straight to the top of the leaderboard.

‘EastEnders’ star Jake Wood continued his run of high scores, with his waltz, set to ‘The Godfather’ movie theme tune, however he was left in joint fourth on the leaderboard, trailing behind Frankie, Pixie Lott and Caroline Flack.

While Judy Murray’s wooden performance was certainly a lowlight of the evening, she wasn’t the only celeb who failed to impress.

Scott Mills, dressed as a crab

Scott Mills’ decision to perform his samba, set to ‘Under The Sea’ from ‘The Little Mermaid’, dressed as a crab didn’t go down too well, with Craig Revel-Horwood labelling it “one of the worst things I’ve ever seen”.

Once again, Mark Wright didn’t fair too well and Len Goodman declared that Tim Wonnacott’s Charleston was a “comedy performance”.

Alison Hammond and Steve Backshall managed to land themselves in the middle of the board, with both of them showing promise while still being reasonably far behind the leaders of the pack.

judy murray

Judy failed to impress for a third time

Tonight’s show will see a second celebrity eliminated, following the departure of Gregg Wallace last week.

While some of the performances were pretty terrible, they weren’t quite as bad as this bunch...

↧

‘EastEnders' Spoiler: Soap Bosses Cast New Actor James Bye As Martin Fowler (PIC)

October 12, 2014, 4:04 am

≫ Next: ‘EastEnders' Spoiler: Dean Wicks Kisses Stacey Slater Weeks After Attack On Linda Carter (PICS)

≪ Previous: ‘Strictly Come Dancing': Frankie Bridge Lands First Ten Of The Series As Judy Murray Fails To Impress (PICS)

‘EastEnders’ bosses have made the decision to recast Martin Fowler, ahead of his arrival back in Albert Square.

The role of Pauline’s son was most recently played by James Alexandrou, however now, James Bye will take on the role.

martin fowler new

James as Martin

While Sonia has been back in Walford for a while, her hubby is yet to be seen and James has shared his excitement ahead of making his grand entrance, when Martin arrives, hoping to reconnect with Sonia.

"It's a huge opportunity for me to put my own stamp on an iconic character and I can't wait to get started," he stated.

The recasting has taken place with James Alexandrou’s agreement and ‘EastEnders’ Executive Producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins has applauded his Casting Executive’s decision.

“With James Alexandrou's blessing - something which was very important to us - we have recast everyman Martin Fowler after extensive auditions,” he said. "Martin is an ‘EastEnders’ original - the first baby born on the Square and part of the show's roots - and, as we celebrate 30 years on Albert Square, it's important to look backwards as we move forwards.”

While the soap’s 30th anniversary is still months away, preparations have already begun.

In February 2015, the cast and crew will commemorate the milestone with a live episode, during which Lucy Beale’s murderer will be revealed.

The Carter family are also set to take centre stage, as the rape storyline between Linda and Dean continues to develop.

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‘EastEnders' Spoiler: Dean Wicks Kisses Stacey Slater Weeks After Attack On Linda Carter (PICS)

October 12, 2014, 4:56 am

≫ Next: John Lydon Breaks Down During Jon Snow Interview As Former Sex Pistols Talks Illness And Family

≪ Previous: ‘EastEnders' Spoiler: Soap Bosses Cast New Actor James Bye As Martin Fowler (PIC)

After weeks of flirtation, Stacey and Dean finally share a kiss in ‘EastEnders’.

However, while the pair have connected since each separately returning to Albert Square, their intimate moment will make for awkward viewing, as viewers know Dean raped Linda just weeks ago.

eastenders stacey

A shaken Stacey arrives at Dean's

Unaware of Dean’s attack on his aunt, Stacey decides to pay him a visit, when things get too much with Alfie and Kat.

As she struggles to keep the truth about the fire a secret, Stacey is left upset and seeks comfort from Dean - and it’s not long before they share a kiss.

The rape storyline between Dean and Linda is set to develop slowly over the coming months.

Dean Wicks and Stacey Slater

‘EastEnders’ boss Dominic Treadwell-Collins has previously confirmed that they won’t be filming a huge trial - instead, it seems that Dean will get his comeuppance when Linda’s husband Mick - played by Danny Dyer - finds out what happened.

Kellie Bright, who stars as Linda, has been praised for her work on the show, with viewers commending the way she’s handled the sensitive storyline.

The plot is part of the build-up to the show’s 30th anniversary week, which will include a live show.

Watch ‘EastEnders’ on 24 October to see the events unfold.

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John Lydon Breaks Down During Jon Snow Interview As Former Sex Pistols Talks Illness And Family

October 12, 2014, 10:01 am

≫ Next: The X Factor 2014 Live Show One

≪ Previous: ‘EastEnders' Spoiler: Dean Wicks Kisses Stacey Slater Weeks After Attack On Linda Carter (PICS)

John Lydon - better known as the hell-raising 'Johnny Rotten' - broke down in an interview with Channel 4's Jon Snow.

The former Sex Pistol was discussing childhood memory loss he experienced as a result of a potentially fatal meningitis.

He said: "I’ve had problems from childhood and the book deals with that. Now when I recovered, for instance, from Meningitis - if you can call it recovery, it took me four years to get my memory back.

Story continues after slideshow...

"The pain you go through of not remembering your own parents. It took a lot out of me to have to go back into my childhood and face that pain and thereby really regurgitate the death of my parents and the lonely isolationism of that.

"And I don’t think I’ve ever made up to my mum and dad and they’re dead now and it breaks my heart. I’ve never made up them for the fact that I forgot who they were."

Lydon has a new autobiography out entitled 'Anger is an Energy: My Life Uncensored' in which he discusses his extraordinarily colourful life.

He added: "Really my message from my music is really learn to love each other properly, because you only get one go at it."

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The X Factor 2014 Live Show One

October 12, 2014, 11:51 am

≫ Next: ‘Strictly Come Dancing': Jennifer Gibney Becomes Second Celeb To Depart The Dancefloor After Simon Webbe Dance-Off (PICS)

≪ Previous: John Lydon Breaks Down During Jon Snow Interview As Former Sex Pistols Talks Illness And Family

With no time at all to get over my judges houses jet lag, I'm back in the good old UK. For the remaining 16, I mean 12 acts, (hold your horses Dean) it really is time to face the music and for the first time in this series, the voting public.

It's going to be an action packed show, so whether you are part of Team Midas or not, here I go with my honest and unbiased views of 2014's X Factor finalists as we go live.

The buzz in the studio is electric as Dermot O'Leary introduces the judges...Simon Cowell, Mel B, Louis Walsh and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini.

Before a note is sung, the wildcards are chosen, what a shock ;)...step forward Jack Walton, Overload Generation, Stevi Richie and, (get in) Team Midas' Lola Saunders....welcome back to you all, but hold on, boom, pow pow...it's a double elimination on Sunday.

The first act to perform live is Paul Akister. It started nervy, which is completely understandable but once he got in his stride, it was amazing. Great start. Louis said, "he is going to go far" and Mel B said it was, "solid"

Team Midas entered the live shows with our very own north east princess, well fishmonger, Lola Saunders. Blimey, what voice, how did Lola not through at judges? She looks and sounds like a pop star. Well done Lola. You are amazing. Louis said she has "The voice of an angel" and Cheryl said she sang "stunningly". Also loved her dig at Simon, "I can't help but think Captain fashion here has taken away from your moment" Priceless.

Boy band Overload Generation have the fan base but it all looked a bit uncomfortable and at times it was off key. I agreed with Cheryl it was, "nothing new" Simon said, "There's one band out there dominating who are the Ferrari (Team Midas' 1D). At the moment you're a VW Beetle in comparison." Not a good start.

Ex soldier Jay James came out fighting and I really applaud the risk of doing an upbeat number, it was a risk that paid off. Louis said, "You remind me of a young Kevin Costner". What?? Come on Louis if you use the same jokes make sure they get better!! Let the X Factor party games begin.

The fifth act to perform was Stephanie Nala. It was very nervy and it just didn't work. I like Stephanie but she could be in real trouble on Sunday. Louis rattled everyone when he said it was, "awful"

Another singer I liked pre-lives was Jack Walton. He looks great, vocally he needs some work but what a good start. Cheryl said she, "was so glad he was back in the competition" and Mel B said, "BooYa" or something like that....

The controversy has already started for this years 'marmite' contestant Chloe Jasmine. I'm a fan, I have to admit. She has a mesmerising voice and is totally fascinating. It was a solid start. Simon said, "ignore the press and embrace it" Cheryl said she was, "very proud of her"

Newly named boy band Stereo Kicks are unique. It's new and fresh but with so many of them, the camera was all over the place. The solos were very impressive though, there is no denying that. Mel B said, "the harmonies were tight". Cheryl said it was, "overwhelming" with so many of them. Simon said they were, "exciting"

Oh, hold on, here is Stevi Richie. Look he is a top bloke and a great entertainer but he is already shaping up to be this years Wagner. More likeable and a slightly, I said slightly, better singer. Mel B's face at the end said it all...

From that charade onto a world class singer Lauren Platt. This girl is a serious contender, one of the best vocals of the night so far. It's effortless and natural and that is the sign of a real star. 10/10 Lauren. Simon said, "it was a smart choice" Mel B said she, "made it her own"

We have already had this years' Wagner now we meet this years' Jedward, in the shape of Blonde Electra. Now I'm in shock, I was sat here waiting to write some negative stuff and core blimey it wasn't half bad. It was vocally good and entertaining to watch. Cheryl said it was, "bonkers"..now where have those elephants gone.

Deep breaths it's Team Midas' van driving hunk Ben Haenow. Look, Team Midas or not this guy is blooming amazing. He had the audience in the palm of his hand. So, so proud. He absolutely smashed it. Cheryl said it was her, "top three performance of he night" Simon said it was, "sensational"

I'm willing Jake Quickenden to do well and he did, in fact he smashed it out of the ball park. It wasn't perfect but he looks great and my team have said he is lovely down to earth lad. Fantastic stuff Jake. Cheryl said he needs to be, "a better singer than better looking" Mel B said, "great job"

Fleur East has crept up the rails and is looking and sounding great. I wasn't overly sure on the song choice but she did a good job and the judges loved it. Louis said,"I love the way you look. I love the way you work it."

Last up for Team Midas were four piece mixed band Only The Young. They have energy and the can ALL sing, like can ALL sing, that is very rare for a band. I thought it was a great song choice and unlike some tonight, their was a chemistry that is hard to fake. I love them.

Italian Andrea Faustini closed the show with a bang, a huge bang. This guy has been faultless in every single performance, it gave me goosebumps. One of the best singers this show has ever heard/had. Already looking like a finalist, even at this very early stage. Simon agreed saying, "You must be one of the red hot favourites."

That's it, two and a half hours and 16 acts later. Now it's over to you.

Right, I'm off to find those elephants, see you next week.

↧

‘Strictly Come Dancing': Jennifer Gibney Becomes Second Celeb To Depart The Dancefloor After Simon Webbe Dance-Off (PICS)

October 12, 2014, 12:05 pm

≫ Next: Friday Food Off - Banoffee Pie vs Chocolate Hazelnut Kisses

≪ Previous: The X Factor 2014 Live Show One

Jennifer Gibney has become the second celebrity to leave ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, after finishing in the bottom two for the second time.

The ‘Mrs Brown’s Boys’ actress faced the dance off against Blue singer Simon Webbe, after failing to impress the judges and viewers in Saturday night’s main show.

Jennifer, Simon and their professional partners made up the bottom two

Once each couple had performed their routines again, it was up the judges to decide who deserved to stay in the competition.

Craig Revel-Horwood decided to save Simon and his partner Kristina, and Darcey Bussell followed suit, stating: “I think both couples upped their game 100% tonight but the couple I’d like to save is Simon and Kristina.”

Guest judge Donny Osmond then confirmed that Jennifer would be leaving by saving Simon.

“I congratulate both couples,” he said. “You really committed to this last dance but the one that I would like to see go through is Simon and Kristina.”

strictly come dancing

Jennifer and Tristan dance their final dance

While they were no longer required to make a decision, Len and Bruno both stated that they would have saved Simon too.

In Saturday night’s show, Frankie Bridge triumphed, storming to the top of the leaderboard with the help of a 10 from Donny. Jake Wood continues to impress, and came joint fourth, just behind Caroline Flack and Pixie Lott.

Last week, Gregg Wallace became the first celeb to leave the dance show.

↧

Friday Food Off - Banoffee Pie vs Chocolate Hazelnut Kisses

October 12, 2014, 12:06 pm

≫ Next: Microbirth: Why We All Need to Know About Seeding and Feeding a Baby's Microbiome

≪ Previous: ‘Strictly Come Dancing': Jennifer Gibney Becomes Second Celeb To Depart The Dancefloor After Simon Webbe Dance-Off (PICS)

In this week's Friday Food Off, Olivia and I put our sweet tooth to the test. My sweet canapé is an all-time favourite, the Banoffee pie. My recipe uses budget ingredients and it's quick and simple to make. Unless your guests are bananaphobes, you're onto a winner. Just make sure you let that base set for long enough (mine crumbled a little too much)! Olivia's more luxurious recipe are delicious chocolate hazelnut kisses. These are absolutely delicious. The stakes this week are high, so please share you opinions about which recipe you liked best.

NGREDIENTS:

220 g Pack Of Digestives
120 g Butter
330 ml Double Cream
Tin of Nestle Carnation Caramel
3 Bananas
2 Cadburys Flake
1 Pack of Unsalted Pecans

STEP 1: MAKE BASES
Start by blending your digestives with the butter and place into a greased-up mini cake tin (or a square tin and slice up later). Put the tin in the fridge and set for at least half an hour.

STEP 2: CHOPPED BANANA
Whilst they're setting, whip up your cream and then stir through some chopped up banana.

STEP 3: ASSEMBLE AND FINISH
Once ready, carefully remove the bases from the tin and spread a small amount of carnation caramel. Then you want to add a layer of banana cream, put on a slice of banana and one unsalted pecan for those of you who want an extra nutty crunch. The final touch is some crushed up flake.

INGREDIENTS:

180 g Caster Sugar
120 g Soft Unsalted Butter
2 Eggs
3 tbsp Milk
3 tbsp Cocoa Powder
180 g Self Raising Flour
90 g Melted Dark Chocolate
120 g Soft Unsalted Butter
120 g Icing Sugar
1 Vanilla Pod
150 g Chopped Hazelnuts
24 Small/Medium Sized Strawberries

STEP 1: MAKE BASES
To make the base of your kisses cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Crack in the 2 eggs and stir into the mixture. Next add the cocoa powder, self raising flour and a splash of milk and stir until all the ingredients are fully mixed together. Spoon into your mini cake cases. Bake in an oven preheated to 180C until risen and bouncy to the touch. Leave to cool completely.

STEP 2: MAKE FROSTING
To make the frosting for your cakes beat your butter until soft and gradually mix in your icing sugar, until the two are fully incorporated. Stir through your melted chocolate and vanilla seeds.

STEP 3: DECORATE AND FINISH
To decorate, take the cooled cups out of their cases turn upside down and spoon the chocolate frosting over the sides and top. Roll the frosting in the chopped hazelnuts until they are covered in the nuts and place half a strawberry on top. Continue until all your cakes are iced.

↧

Microbirth: Why We All Need to Know About Seeding and Feeding a Baby's Microbiome

October 12, 2014, 12:11 pm

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It is difficult to say anything about birth without someone somewhere saying the discussion is making them feel some degree of guilt. The guilt factor seems to have become the elephant in the room.

Guilt is an important emotion that needs to be recognised and addressed. But surely just because something makes someone somewhere feel guilty shouldn't stop the truth being spoken, or new research being revealed. Especially if that new research has serious implications for our children's lifelong health.

The "guilt" question has popped up a few times since we launched our Microbirth documentary with over 350 premieres around the world on 20 September 2014. In fact, at the two premieres myself and my filmmaking partner Alex Wakeford attended (one at Imperial College London and another at the University of Sussex Medical School), we were asked variations on this question:

"Isn't your film going to make mothers who had C-Sections feel guilty?"

We tried really hard to make Microbirth as balanced and scientific as possible. The film was not trying to demonise anyone who had a C-Section or to dissuade someone from having a C-Section if it is right or necessary for them. Our focus was purely on looking at emerging science and the latest hypotheses. And as the film states emphatically, C-Sections are often necessary and they can be life-saving.

However, the latest scientific research is starting to point to long-term risks associated with Caesareans. Emerging science is linking C-Sections with a significantly increased risk of children developing immune-related conditions including asthma, type 1 diabetes, coeliac disease and obesity.

If you had a C-Section and you didn't know about all this, it's not your fault. It's no-one's fault. No-one is to blame. If you or your healthcare provider weren't aware of something, then you simply weren't aware of it. You can only do the best you can with the information available. "Microbirth" is simply providing new information so that a mother may choose to factor in this information to make the best possible choices.

Being unaware happens. In the 1960's, parents bought children's pyjamas with flame-retardant chemicals thinking they were better protecting their children. Then years later we learned that the flame retardant chemicals used were actually toxic.

The truth is, up until now, few people realised the importance of seeding and feeding the baby's microbiome for the lifelong health of the baby. (To find out why this is so important, perhaps read my previous Huffington Post article.)

Few knew there are three things that could be done to ensure the baby has the best possible immune system:

Seeding the baby with bacteria from the mother's birth canal (through vaginal birth or in the future, wiping C-Section babies with vaginal swabs taken from the mother)

Immediate skin-on-skin contact with the mother (but could also be the father) for the transfer of more microbes to the baby

Breastfeeding to provide essential nutrients that not only feed the baby, but also feed the bacteria that have been newly seeded in the baby's gut.

Looking into the future, this new science is actually offering us an exciting opportunity. All mothers could be made aware of this new research during their antenatal appointments. Mothers could then formulate a plan along with their midwives or obstetricians to optimally seed and feed their baby's microbiome - however the baby is born, whether by C-Section or vaginally. (I wrote about this in another previous Huffington Post article.)

As Rodney Dietert, Professor of Immunotoxicology from Cornell University says in Microbirth;

I didn't know any of this science when I myself had a C-Section seven years ago. Do I feel guilty about having a C-Section knowing what I know now? Yes. I do carry some guilt that my daughter may be more susceptible to disease later in her life.

But can I do anything about it now? Other than to continue to feed her a healthy diet, to ban anti-bacterial products in our household, to use prescribed antibiotics only when absolutely necessary possibly in conjunction with probiotics to help restore microbial diversity, there isn't much more I can do. (Apart from perhaps getting a dog as recent research seems to suggest this could help increase microbial diversity.)

As Professor Rodney Dietert says in the film;

That one chance, that narrow window, surrounds birth.

I missed the window by having a C-Section, by not having immediate skin-to-skin and by breastfeeding "topped up" with formula. By making this film, I hope that other mothers won't miss their window with their babies. I hope that no-one else feels guilty because they did or didn't do something during their birth because they simply weren't aware of the latest research.

It's time to push the elephant out of the room. It's time to wipe the slate clean. It's time to empower all women in their birth choices for the sake of the lifelong health of all babies.

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'X Factor' Review: Blonde Electra And Overload Generation Eliminated In Double Whammy For Louis Walsh's Groups

October 12, 2014, 1:19 pm

≫ Next: 'That's The Weirdest Cat I've Ever Seen In My Life': John Cleese Insults Taylor Swift's Pussy On The Graham Norton Show

≪ Previous: Microbirth: Why We All Need to Know About Seeding and Feeding a Baby's Microbiome

We’re only one week into this year’s live shows, and already ‘The X Factor’ has sent two of its contestants packing, with Blonde Electra and Overload Generation failing to impress the judges with their performances on Sunday night.

Blonde Electra received the least votes from the public, meaning they were automatically kicked out of the competition following their performance of Kim Wilde’s ‘Kids In America’ on Saturday night, after which Overload Generation and Stephanie Nala were left to battle for their place in the competition, in the first sing-off of 2014.

Blonde Electra

The pair thanked the public for their support in their interview with Dermot O’Leary, revealing they were going to “keep doing what we’re doing” and had enjoyed “the best time” on ‘The X Factor’.

Overload Generation were the first act to sing, giving an emotional and heart-felt performance of Christina Perri’s ‘A Thousand Years’ that even had their mentor, Louis Walsh, looking a little teary-eyed.

Overload Generation

Stephanie, who had been heavily criticised for her performance on Saturday night, then gave her all with a rendition of Brandy’s ‘Have You Ever?’.

Louis and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini both opted to save their own acts, with Simon Cowell telling Overload Generation their performance had been “shockingly bad”, adding he had “absolutely no belief” in the young boyband, and “couldn’t support” them.

The decision then fell to Mel B, who admitted she “liked both acts” but had to stay true to the act she’d chosen to put through as a wild card, taking the vote to deadlock.

Overload Generation were then revealed as the act that had been less popular with the public, and were therefore following Blonde Electra out of the competition.

‘The X Factor’ continues next weekend, when the acts will be performing 80s tracks, and Jessie J and Maroon 5 will be taking to the stage.

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'That's The Weirdest Cat I've Ever Seen In My Life': John Cleese Insults Taylor Swift's Pussy On The Graham Norton Show

October 13, 2014, 6:51 am

≫ Next: Life In The Arts Lane - Week 91 - LAPADA, Battersea and Rome

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As any discerning Taylor Swift fan knows, the young songstress owns two cats, one of whom is called Olivia Benson (she's named after a character in 'Law & Order: SVU', dontcha know). Olivia Benson is a Scottish Fold cat - which means she's a little, erm, different-looking.

Or as John Cleese put it on 'The Graham Norton Show': "Is that a proper cat? Or is it damaged irreparably? That's the weirdest cat I've ever seen in my life.”

Poor old Taylor. Still, at least she didn't call it Kevin Pietersen...

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Life In The Arts Lane - Week 91 - LAPADA, Battersea and Rome

October 13, 2014, 6:55 am

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In Berkeley Square you normally admire the trees, the tired bedraggled grass, and the stoic office workers stalwartly enjoying fresh air, whilst cars and trucks go round and round, circling like lions around Christians in the Colosseum. But at this time of year the pattern is disrupted by the landing of a massive tent, like a space ship, on the north side of the square. The tent serves as home to the LAPADA fair first and then the PAD fair will follow. The former is the flagship for the provincial dealers and they wave the flag doggedly, confidently asserting the value and significance of the local dealer. There is a smattering of the London trade too, together with slightly forlorn and lost looking international dealers - they look like travellers who have caught the wrong train and are doing their best to get home. The look of the fair is very chic as Stabilo - the builders of TEFAF and Masterpiece - have built it. White autumnal leaves adorn the carpet, and the ever elegant director Mieka stalks the floor ministering to the wants and needs of her clients, visitors and press. The mood amongst the trade is wary but optimistic and as the opening day passes so does the spread of little red measles dots indicating business is underway. I don't stay long as I find the dominant black decor slightly funereal but my friends are happy enough.

Further south in Battersea Park the Decorative Fair is open. This is a charming fair full of activity and life, animated particularly by sleeping, strolling and barking dogs. Furniture is always being carried in and out as no dealer wants to leave sold items on their stand. The flow makes the whole room feel very lovely and there is a buzz - possibly deceptive, as chests of drawers on the move and the occasional sofa do not necessarily indicate a mass of sales. But the crowd is welcoming and there is a trolley that rolls around guided by cheerful Australian girls selling champagne and cocktails. The feeling is very much one of a party. I am tempted by a few items and naturally I gravitate towards Ferdinando Jewels. Louise is sharing with Nick Wells, one my alumni from the university of Mallett. Their stand looks well and as per usual Louise is mobbed by women trying things on.

My flat has been transformed into a workshop as a keen young man called Oscar comes round and transforms the black and tarnished objects bought in the south of France into shiny silver things. Cleaning silver is hard work but the results are magical. The deep grey and black becomes a precious metal and the craftsman's original design emerges from the gloom like a butterfly from its chrysalis. Oscar sits in the garden, his hands black with cleaning products and the grime from the objects. His mood is good because, though the work is hard, the results are visible and rewarding.

A day wrestling with London Transport and Ryanair and we are in Rome. Sitting in front of us on the plane is a large man with a straggly beard. He drinks double vodkas throughout the flight, each time with a different fizzy drink mixer. He begins quiet behind his over-scale sunglasses, but gradually the alcohol warms him and he starts chatting to and joking with the small fair-haired air-hostess. By the end of the two and a half hour flight he is garrulous and waxes grandiloquent on the joy and speed of international travel. He laughs loudly and we are all a little awkward but thank-fully we have just landed and we disembark swiftly. On the ground he lets out a quick roar of excitement at having arrived and the start of his Roman adventure. I share his pleasure, his thrill, and his wonder at the miracle of being able to wake up in London and to watch the sunset in Rome. We are very lucky and the fact that this time it took an exuberant drunken Chilean living in Kingston-upon-Thames to bring it home to me, it is all true. Dinner at Da Fortunato beside my favourite building in the world, the Pantheon. The oppressive, unforgiving lighting which is such a classic of old school Italian restaurants becomes unimportant as a plate of Parma ham arrives still slightly warm from the slicing machine. This is accompanied by warm fluffy stuffed fiori di zucchini and a small football of milky Mozzarella. Falanghina white wine and dark red Aglianico del Vulture add a volcanic soil minerality to our dining which wakes us up for our pepper and black truffle pasta and keeps us going until the last mouthful of the beef tagliata that rounds off our meal. A shared bowl of those succulent jewels of the forest, wild strawberries, and all that remains is the walk home via the best ice cream shop in Rome - Giolitti. Two tiny scoops - one of pistachio and one of blackberry sorbet - and then bed, contemplating the wisdom of the Chilean.

The Palazzo Venezia is home to the Rome Biennale. The palazzo is only partially obscured by the fair and its magnificence creeps out at the corners and when you look up the ceilings. The history of any building in Rome is a tapestry of information but this building is both an erstwhile papal residence and was also used by Mussolini, whose presence can be felt everywhere. Many of his most important speeches were delivered from the balcony to crowds in the piazza below, and the exhibitors are keen to recount tales of where he kept and engaged with his numerous girlfriends. The fair is mixed in style with a smattering from every epoch and style. Some of the Italian Masterpiece exhibitors show here. Most claim to exhibit for reasons of loyalty to their capital rather than pure commerce. But as you would expect, elegance abounds, with fine pieces in every room - the mood is fundamentally buoyant. One exhibitor I spoke to had come not anticipating much but had sold eight paintings. As they often say, "You won't win the lottery if you don't buy a ticket."

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‘X Factor' Judge Simon Cowell: ‘I'm The Only Iconic Bachelor Left Now That George Clooney Is Married'

October 13, 2014, 7:08 am

≫ Next: Saad Qureshi - Congregation

≪ Previous: Life In The Arts Lane - Week 91 - LAPADA, Battersea and Rome

‘X Factor’ judge Simon Cowell reckons he’s got a lot to thank George Clooney for - leaving Simon the world’s only iconic bachelor.

In his opinion, anyway.

Simon and his girlfriend Lauren

Speaking to Hello! magazine, Simon made the typically understated comment, adding that he has no plans to change his relationship status any time soon.

“I'm the only iconic bachelor left in the entire world - thanks for that George Clooney,” he tells the magazine. “I think it's a title I'll keep for a while longer if I'm honest.

“I've never said no to marriage but then again I couldn't imagine having a kid at one point and now look at me.”

The music mogul also opened up about his previous hesitancy at settling down, adding: “I guess I was always nervous I may not end up getting on particularly well with the person I was going to have a kid with and I didn't want to make the wrong decision.

“The fact is, our baby wasn't planned was actually the best thing for us to have done and we're very happy now.”

george clooney

George and Amal recently married in Venice

While Si seems intent on staying unmarried for now, George ditched his title of World’s Most Eligible Bachelor to marry Amal Alamuddin in September.

At present, Simon’s a bit busy with the current series of ‘X Factor’, and last week, he slammed contestant Chloe Jasmine, revealing that he doesn’t think she’ll go far in the contest.

In the first of the live shows, Louis Walsh lost two acts, when Blonde Electra received the least amount of votes, before Overload Generation lost the sing-off.

Read the full interview with Simon in this week's Hello! magazine.

simon cowell

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Saad Qureshi - Congregation

October 13, 2014, 7:16 am

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Earlier this year, while on a guided tour of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Oxford-based artist Saad Qureshi noticed a number of beautiful and melodious birds flying around the building.

The guide referred to a fable in the Koran in which abaabil birds (Arabic for flock) are described as the soldiers of Allah, defeating the forces of evil which were attacking the Ka'bah, Islam's most sacred shrine, by dropping hot pebbles on its opposing army.

"As soon as I heard this story, these birds transformed before my very eyes," he explains as we walk around his installation. "I thought these are not just any birds, these are special birds. I'm referring to the power of knowledge. I didn't know these birds but as soon as I had this piece of information planted in my head, it took on a whole new meaning for me."

Exploring the power of knowledge - how and why things take on an importance beyond their physical presence - is the main theme of Congregation, Qureshi's new exhibition at London's Gazelli Art House.

Qureshi lived most of the first nine years of his life in Pakistan before moving to the UK. He still maintains close links with his former homeland and strives to nurture his twin identities.

After graduating from the Slade School of Fine Art in 2010, he has exhibited widely both in the UK and abroad including in New York, Hong Kong, Turin, Rome and Istanbul.

Subsequent research revealed that Koranic scholars had further developed the fable of the abaabil birds, mythologising them into the largest birds ever seen, with green, predatory faces and paws like dogs'.

In the eponymous Congregation (above) Qureshi has reinterpreted the myth by sculpting 313 bird-like creatures standing on 99 concrete plinths, arranged in the ranks of an army. The numbers are hugely significant to him but revealing the nature of this, he says, would obstruct the viewer's own interpretation.

The creatures are made from plaster, clay and straw to give them a fossilised effect - frozen in time. You can almost hear their cacophony.

"I wanted to construct a combination of the real and the imagined. It was really important that the birds were seen as the birds of the mind, as much as the physical matter."

This is not religious art. Such birds are seen in many religions and cultures - the dragon, griffin, phoenix and so on. Qureshi is interested in what he calls the relationship between matter and aura, the power of belief and applied knowledge.

This combination of real and imagined is continued in the exhibition's large landscapes. Typical is The Final Aggregation (above), drawn in Indian ink, charcoal and chalk on gaboon marine plywood.

The sepia colour sets the tone - barren and empty. The rich grain of the wood becomes part of the scene itself. A heap of indeterminate material is seemingly held back by a dam of a wall. While in both the fore and background, dead trees and pole-like structures inhabit the picture. It's a recurring Qureshi motif, deliberately ambiguous..

There are religious references here but Qureshi is transforming the religious into the secular. Ironically, he says, the art gallery and the museum in our secular society has displaced the church, mosque, temple and so on, as the main places for reflection.

Interspersed among the landscapes are sculptures in the form of date palm leaves such as in Dead Leaves Lie Still 1 and 2 (above). The leaves are cast in concrete. Palm leaves have significance in many religions, yet once again their ambiguity serves as a discussion point, and another example of how matter and aura inter-relate.

Congregation is showing at the Gazelli Art House, 39 Dover Street, London W1S 4NN until 23 November.

All images are used with the permission of photographer Sam Drake, the artist and the gallery.

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