Jeremy Clarkson And Co.'s New Amazon Prime Car Show To Be Named... ‘Gear Knobs'?

September 17, 2015, 6:14 am

≫ Next: FIRST LOOK: David Tennant Stars In Marvel's 'Jessica Jones' On Netflix, Beside Krysten Ritter And Mike Colter

≪ Previous: Victor Meldrew Is Making A Comeback As ‘One Foot In The Grave' Actor Richard Wilson Reprises His Role (But For One Night Only)

Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond are currently preparing to make their new multi-million pound Amazon Prime show, and it appears that the name of the programme may have been discovered. Oh, and it’s pretty awful.

According to documents discovered by Buzzfeed, Jezza’s law firm Olswang recently registered new trademarks, for the name ‘Gear Knobs’. *sighs*

top gear presenters

Gear. Knobs.

The website has discovered that the registration took place back in June, and the firm - via a newly-formed company Newincco 1361 Ltd - then later trademarked ‘Speedbird’ on 28 July.

The various registrations reserve the right to use the words on merchandise, as well as in broadcasting and publishing, suggesting it could well be the title of their work-in-progress Amazon Prime show.

Olswang declined to comment on the matter, when asked by Buzzfeed.

Since confirming the Amazon Prime deal, the former ‘Top Gear’ trio have been reluctant to reveal details of what fans can expect from the show, but with a rumoured budget of £160 million for 36 episodes, we’re sure they’ll pull something ~~ridiculous~~ spectacular out of the bag.

While Jeremy and co. are well on their way to creating a new show, the BBC are still yet to confirm the full presenting line-up for ‘Top Gear’, which will return with Chris Evans at the helm in 2016.

Chris is planning a huge shake-up of the show, and he’s not letting a lack of presenters get in the way of new plans.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that it’s likely some episodes, or at least segments, will be screened live.

Meanwhile, the hunt for some co-presenters is currently on-going. Here are the latest stars rumoured to be in line for the job...

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FIRST LOOK: David Tennant Stars In Marvel's 'Jessica Jones' On Netflix, Beside Krysten Ritter And Mike Colter

September 17, 2015, 6:55 am

≫ Next: On Burning Man

≪ Previous: Jeremy Clarkson And Co.'s New Amazon Prime Car Show To Be Named... ‘Gear Knobs'?

David Tennant will soon be back on our screens, appearing in Marvel's highly-anticipated 'Jessica Jones', with the whole series set to premiere on Netflix on 20 November.

The 'Broadchurch' star will appear alongside Krysten Ritter in the title role, in this second of four live-action adventure series. The others are Daredevil, already out there, Luke Cage and Iron Fist, all leading up to the teaming of the main characters in 'The Defenders'.

David Tennant stars as mysterious Kilgrave in Marvel's 'Jessica Jones'

Jessica Jones' back-story is that, following a tragic ending to her short-lived super hero stint, she sets about rebuilding her personal life and career as a detective who gets pulled into cases in New York City. David's character Kilgrave is a man from Jones's past, whose reappearance shakes up her life.

Exec producer Jeph Loeb says of the British star's chemistry with Krysten Ritter, "There’s going to be moments where some of the things that she does is pretty questionable. And some of the things that, when you learn about Kilgrave’s character and the way that David Tennant plays that character, it’s really extraordinary."

Krysten Ritter stars as Jessica Jones, determined to rebuild her life following tragedy

David and Krysten will also be joined by actors Mike Colter (Luke Cage), Rachael Taylor (Trish Walker), Carrie-Anne Moss, Eka Darville, Erin Moriarty and Wil Traval.

Ever busy, David remains best known for his work as the Tenth Doctor Who, as well as his troubled police officer Alec Hardy in two series of 'Broadchurch'. This could be his big break in the US, following a couple of previous attempts, including filming a pilot for 'Rex is Not Your Lawyer' for NBC that was not picked up, and losing out to Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen for the title role of 'Hannibal'.

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On Burning Man

September 18, 2015, 12:04 am

≫ Next: How Do You Define Sustainable Fashion?

≪ Previous: FIRST LOOK: David Tennant Stars In Marvel's 'Jessica Jones' On Netflix, Beside Krysten Ritter And Mike Colter

The Mother of all festivals has got to be Burning Man. I went - it did not disappoint - a Fellini film on acid, squared. It's not for the faint hearted because a few times a day you have to eat dirt. I refer to the frequent whiteout dust storms; imagine the Sahara filling up your lungs with a leaf blower. That's the bad news. The good is that every centimetre of space is filled with visions you've never dreamt of. An animal safari is a safari - you know what you're getting. This is a whole new paradigm of reality. I not only refer to the 80,000 people in outfits that make Mad Max look underdressed but the neon art cars and colossal art installations that range from a replica of a street in New Orleans to a 50 foot woman made of woven wire who visibly breathes. The vehicles, in their hundreds and neon at night, are moveable islands of entertainment; a full-sized pirate ship with merry-go-round horses, a cowboy salon on wheels, moving octopi blowing fire, sharks, rhinos, a Japanese tea garden, a bordello, a fire-breathing bathtub, fun houses... Anything you can picture, it's there, lit up like Vegas and spitting fire balls.

I stayed at the Cirque Gitane camp, which sounds pretentious and it was. I'm not complaining, while other people were stuck in small tents, boiling in the day, freezing at night, I lucked out (someone pulled strings). This is a hotel sized circus tent with baroque furnishings, lit chandeliers, Persian carpets and massive statues of famous statesmen dressed as clowns; just like you'd see at your everyday bacchanal. I did find the inhabitants a little upsetting; eight feet tall models either unclad in glitter g-strings lodged somewhere in their g-spots with pink Marie Antoinette wigs or wrapped in leather corsets and snakes. Thank God, I brought my over-sized Sleeping Beauty costume from the Disney shop made of hideous polyester with miles of tulle; if anyone lit a cigarette near me, I would have combusted. I checked it out though, none of the women looked happy so I felt much better. Susan Sarandon brought Timothy Leary's ashes, so there was a bizarre funeral parade where his ashes were scattered around the cathedral as big as a real cathedral but covered in 3d exotic photos, eyes and elephants. Inside was a grotto of shells, confessional booths and peepholes looking into dioramas of weirdnesses. Timothy will be happy there.

I spent most of my days biking from event to event; there were hundreds of daily selections and I was on a tight schedule. So much to choose from - the fruit, donuts and balls sex exhibition party, naked pub crawls, kundalini cooking classes, the orgasmatron experience, slut Olympics, booty shines, workshops on how to turn your panties into a face mask, male stripping, spanking at Spankies and - my favorite - the strap-a-thon in Beavertown for women and transgender people only. Ok, so you go in a dark tent and first thing we had to do was ask our partners if they were carrying any sexual transmitted diseases and since I was alone, I asked the wall and I told my friends it said, "Yes " Then we had to repeat the rules about always using a wet wipe before and after and what to do with the rubber gloves. We were told to either respond with 'yes' or 'no' when called upon to partake, never use 'maybe' because it was explained if you changed your mind you would upset the other person. I always had female orgy on my bucket list so I can cross that one off it was like Lego with vaginas. I stuck with the wall as my partner but I thought, good for them, gay men have been doing this for years, now it's the girlies' turn

(I'll continue this blog next week)

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How Do You Define Sustainable Fashion?

September 18, 2015, 12:22 am

≫ Next: A New Story

≪ Previous: On Burning Man

This blog is part of a month-long focus around sustainable fashion across HuffPost UK Style and Lifestyle. Here we aim to champion some of the emerging names in fashion and shine a light on the truth about the impact our appetite for fast fashion has around the world.

livia firth

How do you define sustainable fashion? The truth is, you can't. Or at least not in a few sentences. Words such as ethical, sustainable or ecological fashion have been so over used that they create more confusion than certainties.

The truth is we are in a situation today perfectly described by Carlo Petrini, founder of the Slow Food Movement when he asked a very simple question: "How did we end up in an era when we have to define and certify things that should be normal?"

To unpick that, we need to define unsustainable (and fast) fashion.

Fast fashion is a relatively new phenomenon. One that's caught us all, as consumers, in an absurd circle of micro trends. Think about it. Around two mini seasons a week in store. Disposable clothes that stay in a woman's closet for an average of just five weeks, before being thrown out - all in the name of the democratization of fashion.

In reality, this is exploiting not just us, the "consumers", but also the planet's resources and the people who produce them. The collapse of the Rana Plaza factory in Bangladesh in April 2013 showed the world the true human cost of production at these volumes and prices. And don't even mention the environmental impact. It's enough to say that between 11,000 and 20,000 litres of water are needed to produce just ONE pair of jeans.

Each year across the world, 1.5billion garments are sewn by an estimated 40million people, working in 250,000 factories. These are predominantly made in countries described by the UN as the world's least developed. All in all, the garment and textile industry is estimated to be worth some $3trillion. And the bulk of that goes into the pockets of the owners of those fast fashion brands. Two of them are at the top of Forbes rich list.

Fast fashion corporations have outsourced production to poor countries. In the process, they enslave them by addicting them to the idea of enrichment and start driving production costs down with volumes.

Like any good pusher, they offer their potential clients a great deal, only to get them addicted. Once they've succeeded, they're in the driving seat. In the case of poor economies, they addict them to the idea of lifting their people out of poverty. In fact, they're like the big bad wolf, lying in wait for the dependency to start.

At the same time, they operate as distributors and addict us, "consumers", to the idea of always faster, ever cheaper fashion, despite the human and environmental cost. It's the old problem. Out of sight, out of mind. It happens far away and so we don't see it. I think the whole system has been beautifully described by Andrew Morgan in his stunning documentary The True Cost, which I urge everyone to watch if they haven't already.

Benjamin Harrison, 23rd President of the US (1889-1893) once beautifully said "I pity the man who wants a coat so cheap that the man or woman producing it starves in the process". More than a century later, this happens to a scale which is completely out of proportion.

So the problem is much more complicated than simply finding a definition for sustainable fashion. Once you understand the mess we're in, the solution is very simple. Buy less and get more 'fashion mileage' out of each piece. Buy heritage pieces that will last. Become an active citizen through your wardrobe.

This is why I love fashion. It truly empowers you. But only when it allows you to carry beautiful stories woven into stunning clothes.

There is no legal or agreed definition of sustainable style or ethical fashion and there needn't be. Instead we need to buy pieces that are made with design ingenuity and innovation that prioritize social and environmental justice, along with the aesthetic - all three on an equal footing.

There are plenty of fashion brands today which are doing this and addressing complicated issues in their supply chain - but fast fashion will never be able to truly solve anything until it accepts to change its core business model - eg until it decides to produce less.We have a huge power as consumers - not only as we vote every time we buy something - but also because the change can and must start from us - from starting to buy clothes that we love.

Clothes that will sustain our wardrobe for years to come.

HuffPost UK Lifestyle is running a special series around Sustainable Fashion for the month of September. Livia Firth is creative director of Eco-Age and founder of The Green Carpet Challenge, and will be guest editing on 18 September. If you'd like to blog or get involved, please email us.

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A New Story

September 18, 2015, 12:22 am

≫ Next: ‘Coronation Street' Actress Melanie Hill Reveals Secret Addiction To Painkillers

≪ Previous: How Do You Define Sustainable Fashion?

Growing up I became fascinated with stories from an early age. I will never forget sitting on the end of my bed watching E.T. as tears fell down my face. That week I got a hold of an old camera and began what has become a lifelong obsession with using filmmaking to tell stories.

Ever since that first moment on the end of my bed, I have become increasingly convinced of this one idea. That stories shape the world. The stories we believe, just like the stories we tell start to define the world we live in today and the future we choose to create tomorrow. All throughout history stories have served to move us forward or hold us back. The real danger is in those moments when we come to believe stories that are not true.

A few years ago I began work on a film about clothing and the impact of fashion on our world (The True Cost). Up until that point I had never thought twice about anything I bought but suddenly, based on a series of tragic clothing factory disasters, I was interested to understand where my clothes came from and what kind of an effect it was having on people and places around the world.

We live in a time when clothing is more accessible, more affordable and more disposable then ever before. I, like so many of my peers have only experienced a world where clothing is something that we use and use up, where it is normal to wear and wear out clothes quicker than ever. And why not?

The story we have been told about clothing is simple. People in other parts of the world (who desperately need jobs) are working to make this clothing. Someone somewhere is taking care of these people and the most important thing we can do is to keep buying more. We really can have it all for nothing.

After spending the last few years traveling to countries all over the world to make The True Cost, I have seen first hand in unforgettable ways that the true story is far less beautiful than we have been lead to believe. The unavoidable reality is that somewhere someone always pays the price and the further we buy into cheaper disposable clothing both people and the planet suffer.

The people are farmers, garment factory workers, men and women working in dye houses and leather tanneries. People that globally account for the poorest of the working poor. And as no other part of the supply chain has gotten cheaper (transportation, raw materials etc.) human labour continues to be the element that can be forced down to artificially low levels. The result is millions of people working in dangerous conditions unable to make a living wage that supports their families in some of the world's poorest slums. The story that has been sold as a one-way ticket out of misery is in so many cases actually further entrenching systemic poverty.

As for the planet, the situation has grown equally dire. In an economic system that only measures profit, we have no metrics in place to quantify the increasing toll this industries is making. The amount of natural resources used in the creation of clothing is enormous and as our appetite for cheap throw-away fashion is growing it is unsurprisingly generating staggering amounts of waste.

This story of having it all, more and more clothing at shockingly low prices it turns out has been an incredibly costly lie. It has been a story told and sold by those who stand to profit most by selling us on the idea of faster and faster fashion.

But this is why I am so fascinated by stories. Because stories can always change.Stories change when people become aware of reality and possibility. When we open our eyes to the way things actually are and open our hearts to the possibilities of what could be. We have more access to information than ever before and now is the time to use that information to rewrite the story to include all of the hearts and hands that touch the things we wear.

Before we can see the needed transformation in this industry, before we can truly question the ill equipped economic model underneath it all, before we can account for the true cost of what we consume, we need a new story. A story that re-describes human beings as people first and foremost, not cogs in a machine. A story that recognizes the profit of some must not come at the expense of so many.

And a story that understands that we live on a planet that has very real limits, many of which we are stepping dangerously far beyond.

In a world of increasing inequality, at a time of severe planetary crisis and in a moment when we can feel overwhelmed by the challenges in front of us - I believe telling a new story about clothing is a key that could open many doors. As a crucial part of our lives, fashion weaves a thread that unites the world reminding us all of just how connected we truly are. As we begin to open our eyes and hearts to the truth that there are people behind the things we wear, let us embark on the needed task of telling a new story stepping forward.

HuffPost UK Lifestyle is running a special series around Sustainable Fashion for the month of September. Livia Firth is creative director of Eco-Age and founder of The Green Carpet Challenge, and will be guest editing on 18 September. If you'd like to blog or get involved, please email us.

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

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‘Coronation Street' Actress Melanie Hill Reveals Secret Addiction To Painkillers

September 18, 2015, 12:42 am

≫ Next: Jenna Coleman Confirms ‘Doctor Who' Exit Ahead Of ITV Queen Victoria Drama Role

≪ Previous: A New Story

‘Coronation Street’ star Melanie Hill has revealed she was secretly addicted to painkiller drugs.

READ MORE:

Craig Reveals The Full Story Behind His 'Corrie' Exit

'Corrie' Fans Hail Liam's Soap Debut

'Corrie' Producers Spill The Beans On Live Episode

The 53-year-old actress, who plays Roy Cropper’s love interest Cathy Matthews in the ITV soap, says she became addicted to Co-codamol.

Melanie Hill

Melanie had been prescribed the drug to help her with the pain caused by osteoarthritis while starring in BBC's ‘Waterloo Road’.

The star, who underwent a hip replacement, told Woman magazine: "I needed a stick but I had to get rid of it when I was shooting scenes.

"I carried on for two years because I didn't want to take time out."

coronation street

Melanie plays Roy Cropper's love interest in 'Corrie'

Melanie admitted it was difficult to come off the drugs after taking them for such a long time.

"I was on the maximum dose of Co-codamol painkillers and after two years it was hard getting off them," she added.

"It took me three months to get completely weaned off them."

The former 'Bread' actress, who is no longer on the prescribed drugs, says her new role on ‘Corrie’ is a ‘dream come true’.

She told the Mirror: "When I got a call from my agent asking if I would like to be interviewed for Coronation Street I’ve never been as happy in my life because it’s been a life-long ambition.

“I’ve grown up with it and I’ve got to a point in my life where I am happy to go into a long-running drama. Staying for a long time would be ideal for me.”

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Jenna Coleman Confirms ‘Doctor Who' Exit Ahead Of ITV Queen Victoria Drama Role

September 18, 2015, 1:53 am

≫ Next: Westlife Star Markus Feehily Admits Considering An ‘X Factor' Audition, After Revealing Awkward Simon Cowell Encounter

≪ Previous: ‘Coronation Street' Actress Melanie Hill Reveals Secret Addiction To Painkillers

Jenna Coleman has confirmed that she has filmed her final ‘Doctor Who’ scenes, after accepting a role on a new ITV drama, in which she’ll play a young Queen Victoria.

Reports that Jenna was set to leave the tardis behind began circulating earlier this week, and the actress confirmed the news on Radio 1, on Friday morning.

Jenna Coleman

"I have left the tardis - it's happened," she told Nick Grimshaw. "I've filmed my last scenes.”

Speaking of her exit, she added: "It's been in the works for a very long time. [Writer] Steven [Moffat] and I sat down a year and a half ago and tried to work out the best place to do it and tell a really good story.

"We worked out a really good story arc out so hopefully people will love it."

Almost simultaneously, ITV issued a press release, revealing details of their exciting new drama, which is being made by the producers of ‘Poldark’.

‘Victoria’ will chart the monarch’s early years on the throne, along with her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert.

Jenna has shared her excitement ahead of filming, praising the character: "She is a vivid, strong, inspirational and utterly fascinating woman in British history and I can't wait to tell her story.”

Jenna was first rumoured to be leaving ‘Doctor Who’ in 2014, however her exit did not materialise.

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Westlife Star Markus Feehily Admits Considering An ‘X Factor' Audition, After Revealing Awkward Simon Cowell Encounter

September 18, 2015, 2:52 am

≫ Next: Kanye West's Latest Yeezy Clothing Line Gets A Bashing From Ice-T: ‘It Looks Like Future Slave Gear'

≪ Previous: Jenna Coleman Confirms ‘Doctor Who' Exit Ahead Of ITV Queen Victoria Drama Role

Former Westlife star Markus Feehily is currently going it alone as a solo artist, but he hasn’t had it easy in recent years, and has now revealed that he recently considered auditioning on ‘X Factor’.

Westlife were originally signed by Simon Cowell, and Markus (no, you’re not imagining it, he used to be just ‘Mark’) has now admitted that when the band split in 2012, he considered whether the ITV talent show could kickstart his solo career.

Markus Feehily

Speaking to The Mirror, he explains: “There were people waiting with contracts to sign me up and go down the predictable route, but it’s not what I wanted to do.

“At one pointing I was thinking: ‘Should I go in for ‘The X Factor’ as a solo artist?’

“For many obvious reasons I didn’t do it as it probably would have been too close to home, conflict of interests, they probably wouldn’t have allowed me.

“I would have had to dress up and put a mask on but if they didn’t know my voice after Westlife… Although you never know with Simon.

“It was a fun thought for a time.”

simon cowell

surely it would have been a yes from Simon?

It’s perhaps for the best that Markus didn’t try out for the show, as he goes on to reveal a rather weird encounter with music mogul Si, adding: “I walked past Simon in Barbados at Christmas and he completely blanked me like he didn’t recognise me.”

Awks.

Markus’s debut album is out in October, and he’s not the only former Westlife star hoping to top the charts solo, as Shane Filan is also set to release his own record later this year.

However, despite their best efforts, reunion rumours continue to swirl, though in April, Kian Egan appeared to put them to bed once and for all, stating: “There's not a chicken's chance in Thailand that there will be a Westlife reunion any time soon.”

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Kanye West's Latest Yeezy Clothing Line Gets A Bashing From Ice-T: ‘It Looks Like Future Slave Gear'

September 18, 2015, 3:29 am

≫ Next: ‘Embarrassing Bodies’ Doctor Dawn Harper Splits From Husband Of 20 Years

≪ Previous: Westlife Star Markus Feehily Admits Considering An ‘X Factor' Audition, After Revealing Awkward Simon Cowell Encounter

Kanye West’s latest Yeezy clothing line presentation may have impressed the fashpack, but fellow rapper Ice-T isn’t quite so taken with the ‘All Day’ creator’s designs.

Kanye’s ensembles are certainly unusual, and Ice-T didn’t hold back when he took to Twitter shortly after Kim K’s husband’s New York Fashion Week show.

kanye west

Kim shared a snap of Kanye's show

He posted:

“Future slave gear”? Hmm. He then posted another tweet, which read: “I’m not POP… So I speak freely.”

ice t

Ice-T wasn't impressed

This may have only been Kanye’s second NYFW presentation, but the show was one of the hottest events on the calendar and attended by Anna Wintour, along with the entire Kardashian-Jenner clan, including Kylie who walked the runway.

Kim - kitted out in head-to-toe Yeezy togs - led her family to their spots at the front, ahead of the show which featured clothes in neutral tones.

Once again, it was North West who stole the show though, however this time around, she didn’t do with a gigantic tantrum.

Instead, the tot sat happily at Kim’s feet… Oh, until they left that is. Then she had an outburst that would definitely make Kanye proud.

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‘Embarrassing Bodies’ Doctor Dawn Harper Splits From Husband Of 20 Years

September 18, 2015, 3:45 am

≫ Next: ‘Coronation Street' Producer Stuart Blackburn Makes Way For ‘Emmerdale' Boss Kate Oates In Huge ITV Soap Shake-Up

≪ Previous: Kanye West's Latest Yeezy Clothing Line Gets A Bashing From Ice-T: ‘It Looks Like Future Slave Gear'

‘Embarrassing Bodies’ doctor, Dawn Harper, has split from her husband of twenty years, it has been revealed.

The TV doc, who presents the Channel 4 show with Dr Christian Jessen and Dr Pixie McKenna, has reportedly moved out of the family home she shared with Graham Isaacs.

According to The Sun, the pair called it quits after a series of rows, with friends of the couple claiming Dawn, 52, had ‘let fame go to her head’.

Dr Dawn Harper

A source said: “With Dawn’s TV and media work and the kids growing up they have drifted apart.

“There’s a feeling being a star has gone to her head and she’s no longer the person Graham fell in love with.”

Dawn had previously described her husband as a “fantastic” dad to their three children, Charlie, 21, Eleanor, 20, and cerebral palsy sufferer Harvey, 18, who he looked after while she was working.

The 'Embarrassing Bodies' team

Earlier this year, it was revealed Dawn’s ‘Embarrassing Bodies’ co-host ‘Embarrassing Bodies’ Dr Christian Jessen met with his Channel 4 bosses, after he was caught appearing to boast about drug use in an X-rated chat on gay dating app Grindr.

In a series of messages obtained by the Daily Star, the TV doctor claimed he has was in possession of class B drug mephedrone, the 'date-rape' drug GHB and cannabis.

He also discussed the effects of class A drugs cocaine and ecstasy and the class B horse tranquiliser ketamine, after inviting a man he had met on the app round to his house to “watch porn, take some stuff and play”.

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‘Coronation Street' Producer Stuart Blackburn Makes Way For ‘Emmerdale' Boss Kate Oates In Huge ITV Soap Shake-Up

September 18, 2015, 4:21 am

≫ Next: Biffy Clyro Confirm Edinburgh's Hogmanay for Only Show of 2015

≪ Previous: ‘Embarrassing Bodies’ Doctor Dawn Harper Splits From Husband Of 20 Years

ITV have revealed plans for a huge soap shake-up, as Stuart Blackburn is set to step aside from his role as 'Coronation Street' executive producer, making way for the current ‘Emmerdale’ boss Kate Oates.

Stuart has held the role - which involves masterminding storylines, live episodes and production - for three years, but in the New Year, Kate will step into the role, with Iain McLeod taking over on ‘Emmerdale’.

Kate Oates

Stuart has shared his thoughts ahead of his departure, stating: “I’ve loved every minute of producing ‘Coronation Street’.

“What a rollercoaster ride the last three years has been. We’ve met every challenge along the way and I can’t praise the cast, crew and writers highly enough for rising to the occasion with each storyline.

“For the next few months my focus will remain entirely on all things Corrie, as we have massive stories coming up taking us in to the Spring and Summer of 2016.

“I wish my friend Kate well in her role as she takes on one of the best jobs in television.”

Stuart Blackburn

During his time in the ‘Corrie’ hot seat, Stuart has worked on a number of memorable storylines, including Hayley Cropper’s emotional exit, and produced two live episodes.

However, while the soap has continued to scoop awards, a number of critics and viewers have been left disappointed, and former writer Kay Mellor criticised the Deirdre Barlow funeral episode.

Meanwhile, ‘Emmerdale’ has gone from strength-to-strength, and pulled off a number of surprises that have delighted viewers.

Their recent #SummerFate episodes were a huge hit, and fans were delighted it was revealed that Ross Barton wasn’t dead after all.

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Biffy Clyro Confirm Edinburgh's Hogmanay for Only Show of 2015

September 18, 2015, 4:29 am

≫ Next: Katie Hopkins Runs Out Of People To Attack And Turns To National Treasure Dame Helen Mirren

≪ Previous: ‘Coronation Street' Producer Stuart Blackburn Makes Way For ‘Emmerdale' Boss Kate Oates In Huge ITV Soap Shake-Up

Och aye the noo! The news is in, Biffy Clyro will be the headline act at Edinburgh's Hogmanay event this year, in the band's only live show of 2015.

The East Ayrshire rockers will be returning to play the New Year's Eve event at Princes Street Gardens in the Scottish capital, having previously headlined the Hogmanay back in 2010, and will be joined by very special guests Idlewild and Honeyblood in an all-Scottish line-up that's on a par in terms of national pride with Mel Gibson in a muddy field yelling "They may take our lives, but they'll never take... OUR FREEDOM!" to a bunch of lads in tatty brown clothing and dodgy blue face paint.

Speaking about their inclusion in the upcoming knees-up in the event's press release, Biffy Clyro said: "We are so happy to come out of musical hibernation to kick off 2016 with the show on Hogmanay. We want to rock off the cobwebs and prepare for the year of da biff!! Nothing can compete with Edinburgh's celebrations and we hope to make it a special night for everyone!!"

The Director of Edinburgh's Hogmanay, Pete Irvine, who I personally hope will be in the middle of the sweaty mosh pit on New Year's Eve screaming with euphoria at 'da biff' with his shirt ripped off and arms triumphantly aloft, added: "We reckon it's a real coup that Biffy have chosen Edinburgh's Hogmanay not only for their first outing of 2015 but also to launch what looks like a very special year for them.

He continued: "Their stand-out performance two years ago headlining T in the Park reminded us that they are one of the most exciting live bands ever to come out of Scotland. Biffy have built a big international following and headlining an impressive Scottish line-up at Concert in the Gardens will please both the Scots and our audience who come from over 70 countries."

The annual curtain-raiser for the new year, which will be 2016 this year (If you're getting old like me and are constantly struggling to remember the current year!), is produced on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council, so the council has chipped in with some of that dazzling salesmanship that the public sector is renowned for. Councillor Richard Lewis said: "Edinburgh's Hogmanay is going back to its Scottish roots. Idlewild first formed in Edinburgh 20 years ago and they are sure to be a huge hit with local fans in particular, while Scotland's NME Award winning Biffy Clyro will help the city bring in the bells when they perform at the Concert in the Gardens. Coupled with the famous fireworks display, this year's celebrations will yet again entertain thousands of people and get 2016 off to a spectacular start."

In short, all that's missing here is a couple of bangin' DJ sets by Nicola Sturgeon and Alex Salmond! Tickets for Edinburgh's Hogmanay Concert in the Gardens will go on general sale from 10.00am on Friday 25 September via www.edinburghshogmanay.com, or you can be all "old skool" by telephoning Edinburgh's Hogmanay Box Office on 0844 573 8455 to witness Biffy playing their one and only gig of 2015 in front of a crowd jam-packed full of intoxicated Scots (in blue face paint?).

It beats watching Jools ****ing Holland, right?!

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Katie Hopkins Runs Out Of People To Attack And Turns To National Treasure Dame Helen Mirren

September 18, 2015, 4:48 am

≫ Next: ‘Shameless' Star Tina Malone Looks Amazing After Losing 11 Stone And Undergoing Rumoured £50K Worth Of Cosmetic Surgery (PICS)

≪ Previous: Biffy Clyro Confirm Edinburgh's Hogmanay for Only Show of 2015

The ever-controversial Katie Hopkins is obviously running out of people to attack in her column.

After targeting everyone from Caitlyn Jenner and Jeremy Corbyn, the outspoken TV personality has turned on Dame Helen Mirren.

Specifically her breasts.

Talking about the national treasure in the Sun, Hopkins wrote: "I'm sick of you parading your boobs about as if they're the only asset women have, and blabbing on about being wrinkle-free like it matters."

Hopkins went on to mention Mirren's spat with a group of drummers, who she reportedly yelled at to be quiet while still dressed in her stage costume.

She even slammed Mirren's performance as the Queen Elizabeth II in The Audience, saying: "People were enjoying the drummers more than they were enjoying you repeating a few lines someone else had written."

Who knows who's next for motor-mouth Hopkins...

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‘Shameless' Star Tina Malone Looks Amazing After Losing 11 Stone And Undergoing Rumoured £50K Worth Of Cosmetic Surgery (PICS)

September 18, 2015, 4:57 am

≫ Next: Jessica Simpson Fans Question ‘Is She Drunk?' After Bizarre Home Shopping Network Channel Appearance

≪ Previous: Katie Hopkins Runs Out Of People To Attack And Turns To National Treasure Dame Helen Mirren

Tina Malone looked amazing when she stepped out in Liverpool on Wednesday after reportedly having a facelift two weeks ago.

READ MORE:

Why Is Tina Malone 'Furious' With Jamelia?

Tina Malone: 'I Want Another Baby At 51'

The ‘Shameless’ star has spoken openly about her intention to go under the knife, and is rumoured to be having a total of £50K worth of cosmetic procedures, including breast implants and a tummy tuck.

The former ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ contestant confirmed the news on ITV's ‘This Morning’ earlier this year.

Tina Malone

She said: “Two weeks today I'll get my face lift and all my plastic surgery. I'll be under the knife... eyes, neck everything.”

Her decision to go ahead with the surgery comes after the actress lost 11-stone in 16 months after having a gastric band fitted.

Tina, pictured here in 2009, has lost 11 stone in weight

The star’s plastic surgery is being recorded for a new documentary on TLC.

The series will follow Tina’s journey as she transforms herself following the birth of her daughter Flame.

Last year, Tina spoke of her desire to go under the knife after losing so much weight.

tina

Tina said her body 'depressed' her

Speaking about her dramatic weight loss on ‘This Morning’, Tina joked: “I don’t have body fat anywhere, just skin now… and I have got the longest boobs in the world now, seriously. I could tie mine around my waist like a belt!

“It depresses me. What depresses me most is that I’m left with this turkey neck.

“I’m a size 10, but I would be about a six or an eight [without the excess skin].”

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Jessica Simpson Fans Question ‘Is She Drunk?' After Bizarre Home Shopping Network Channel Appearance

September 18, 2015, 5:27 am

≫ Next: Jeremy Clarkson To Return To The BBC As Host Of The First Episode Of New Series Of ‘Have I Got News For You'

≪ Previous: ‘Shameless' Star Tina Malone Looks Amazing After Losing 11 Stone And Undergoing Rumoured £50K Worth Of Cosmetic Surgery (PICS)

Jessica Simpson sparked concern from fans on Thursday evening, when she made an appearance on the US’s Home Shopping Network channel to flog her latest range of jeans.

During her 2-hour slot on the channel, Jessica baffled fans with her slurred words and erratic chatting, leading many to question whether she was drunk.

Watch her presenting in this video (story continues below)...

Posts included:

While chatting about her denim range, Jessica frequently interrupted the show’s host, and didn’t exactly deliver a regular sales pitch.

Instead, she spoke about her sister’s penchant for grey jeans, stating: “Ashlee is like the best at wearing grey... my sister.

“Like, she's very rock 'n' roll, but there's something about a grey... that's like... sexy.

“Maybe it's her and her husband, they share jeans. I have no idea.... I dunno there's just something hot about them.”

Jessica is yet to comment on her TV appearance.

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Jeremy Clarkson To Return To The BBC As Host Of The First Episode Of New Series Of ‘Have I Got News For You'

September 18, 2015, 6:23 am

≫ Next: Robson Green's First Acting Job Surfaces In Film Against Anti-Social Behaviour On Newcastle Metro

≪ Previous: Jessica Simpson Fans Question ‘Is She Drunk?' After Bizarre Home Shopping Network Channel Appearance

Jeremy Clarkson is set to return to the BBC as the host of the first episode of the new series of ‘Have I Got News For You’.

READ MORE:

Richard Hammond Reveals The Real Reason He Quit 'Top Gear'

Chris Evans 'Wants One Massive Change To Top Gear'

Five Reasons Zoe Ball Is Actually THE Perfect Choice For 'Top Gear'

The presenter’s return to the Beeb comes six months after he pulled out of presenting the satirical panel show following the ‘Top Gear’ ‘fracas’, which saw him sacked from the motoring show.

Jeremy will will join team captains Ian Hislop and Paul Merton and ‘Pointless’ host Richard Osman, who has been confirmed as one of the two guests for the opening episode on 2 October.

Jeremy Clarkson

Before he pulled out of presenting one of the shows in the last series, Jimmy Mulville, the boss of the independent production company Hat Trick which makes the show, joked: “Maybe we will get the producer on so he can hit Jeremy Clarkson live on television.”

He added: “Have I Got News for You tries to have a bit of mischief so we will see if he can come on, I am not sure they know he is due to be on."

After he pulled out of his scheduled appearance on Friday 24th April, Hat Trick issued a statement, saying: "On reflection, Jeremy Clarkson has decided not to host Have I Got News For You. We fully expect him to resume his hosting duties later in the year."

As well as his appearance on ‘HIGNFY’, Jeremy is gearing up (sorry) for the launch of his new motoring show.

He’ll be joined by his former ‘Top Gear’ co-presenters on the multi-million pound Amazon Prime show, and it appears they’ve finally come up with a (terrible) name for the new show.

According to documents discovered by Buzzfeed, Jezza’s law firm Olswang recently registered new trademarks, for the name ‘Gear Knobs’.

Oh dear.

Since confirming the Amazon Prime deal, the former ‘Top Gear’ trio have been reluctant to reveal details of what fans can expect from the show that has a rumoured budget of £160 million for 36 episodes.

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Robson Green's First Acting Job Surfaces In Film Against Anti-Social Behaviour On Newcastle Metro

September 18, 2015, 6:51 am

≫ Next: Nine Reasons I Believe Everyone Is an Artist

≪ Previous: Jeremy Clarkson To Return To The BBC As Host Of The First Episode Of New Series Of ‘Have I Got News For You'

Everyone has cringeworthy old videos they'd rather keep to themselves, but the internet is making those so much harder to hide...

After the only copy was lost two decades ago, rare footage of Robson Green acting in a Tyne and Wear Metro video has emerged on Youtube. The clip was shown in schools and aimed to reduce social behaviour on the trains.

“It’s great news that this video has turned up after all these years,” said Huw Lewis, a spokesperson for Nexus, who run the Metro.

“We hired a young Robson Green in 1985 to shoot a video that we could show in local schools to promote good behaviour when travelling on the Tyne and Wear Metro.

“Little did we know back then that Robson would go on to become such a big star and a household name. We think it might be one of his first screen roles."

Robson Green as he is today

Green shot to fame in 1991 when he played Dave Tucker in ITV's 'Soldier Soldier'. He went on to play parts in 'Tales from Northumberland', 'Strike Back' and many more.

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Nine Reasons I Believe Everyone Is an Artist

September 18, 2015, 8:38 am

≫ Next: ‘X Factor': Five Auditions To Look Out For On Saturday, In Final Show Before Bootcamp Rounds

≪ Previous: Robson Green's First Acting Job Surfaces In Film Against Anti-Social Behaviour On Newcastle Metro

I didn't believe I was an artist even though I set up a hip hop dance company aged 15 and haven't really stood still since! I have always seen myself as creative but reserved 'artist' for a special type of person. I'm only now recognising that, in fact, I believe everyone is an artist. Here are nine reasons why:

1. Let's start by challenging stereotypes. It's time to challenge the archetypal artist. Imagine an artist that thinks like a designer, with the spirit of an activist and the flair of an entrepreneur. There's a new radical movement of artist emerging - it's fresh, it's raw and it's damn exciting. So don't worry if you don't fit the mould - make a new one.

2. Art is life. I am reading an amazing book called Living as Form: Socially Engaged Art from 1991 - 2011 (Creative Time, 2012), which argues that art is so inextricable from life that maybe it is time to flip the age-old question 'What is Art?' to 'What is Life?' By changing the frame, we open up a space for art to be public, open, raw, messy, accessible, plus a whole new category of artists. I am not saying that all art is equivalent - it isn't. What's more, we need this - it creates a space for aspiration to excellence. The point is not to devalue the term 'artist' , it is to call for a deeper and more nuanced understanding of what this actually means so that there is a space for all.

3. Business is not a dirty word. It can be a dirty business though! Being an artist doesn't mean you can't be practical. The rhetoric of 'getting a real job' has finally been recognised as outdated so why hasn't our attitude towards artists changed? As a social entrepreneur, I constantly battle the stereotype 'You're too business minded to be an artist'. Finding ways to help people to build sustainable creative careers balancing their need to earn with their need to create is about as creative as it comes. We need more recognition of the art of business, as well as the business of art.

4. Art can hide in plain sight. Ever been to an arts event where the 'right' people met in the 'right' space so everything clicked together in such a way that you felt like the Universe was just in harmony? Sorry Universe, you can't take all the credit here - there's someone working behind the scenes to orchestrate the whole experience - it's organic but not accidental. That person is a hidden artist. Being a Creative Producer can sometimes feel like that. You aren't always the one creating something visible, or performing it or writing it down. Producing is about birthing great ideas, making taste, bringing people and spaces together in creative and interesting ways.

5. Don't confuse art and fame. As I've already said, the spectrum creates the space for aspiration. We need a set of measures to aspire to excellence, and that is one way to mark success. By opening up the definition of 'artist', we also open ourselves up to a huge number of alternative measures of success. What are you looking for? Is it quality? Is it recognition? Is it challenging the norm and sparking change? Own it! Artistry can be about aspiration, not always ambition. You decide your metric and hold yourself to it. As Einstein said - "Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." Yup.

6. Art is evolving and therefore so is the artist. The role of the spectator of art has changed. Participatory art and social practice has fantastically blurred the lines so that there is a less solid distinction between consumer and artist. This has opened up an alternative for people to be empowered to engage with art in new ways - or, as I like to think of it, stepping into the mess. Be a part of it. As life becomes before rational, more efficiency driven, a new world order may very well depend on you unleashing your creativity.

7. Play your part in the ecosystem. We're all part of a wide, rich tapestry of artists, makers, entrepreneurs, architects, designers, activists. Everyone has a part to play; to give and take, to consume and create. Every person, every role is important. Unfortunately, the attention, praise and even the financial rewards of great art can sometimes become focused on one part of the ecosystem. Would Beyoncé have sold so many records without an army of stylists, producers, songwriters - each artists in their own right? We need to recognise this phenomenon and value both our own place and the support we receive from others within the living organism we call art.

8. It's what you do. Not what you say you do. I'm all for people giving themselves titles they can grow into (my business card said CEO before Beatfreeks was even registered!). What made me a CEO though was not the card, it was being one - building a business, galvanizing a team, finding that first partner to make magic with. It's your attitude, your intention and the manifestation of those things into action and behaviour that makes you become the thing you say you are. If you're creating and making - are you not being an artist?

9. Only you can decide if you're an artist. Confidence is the final piece. It's not so much about who gives you the title but if you give it yourself, and if you believe it. Even if you don't, cultivate a space to grow and work on yourself and your craft and the rest may just fall into place. I'm only still working out myself what being an artist means to me - that's why I am writing this blog. It was the courage in my conviction that everyone is an artist that pushed me to apply for the Sky Academy Arts Scholarship, despite struggling with not feeling 'good enough'. Winning the Scholarship has given me the support, space and mentorship to build my confidence and practice. I hope to use this opportunity to share my journey through blogs like this to encourage others to be confident in their creativity.

So, repeat after me - 'I am an artist'.

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‘X Factor': Five Auditions To Look Out For On Saturday, In Final Show Before Bootcamp Rounds

September 18, 2015, 4:05 pm

≫ Next: ‘Celebrity Big Brother': Farrah Abraham Leaves The ‘CBB' House

≪ Previous: Nine Reasons I Believe Everyone Is an Artist

It may seem as though the show has only been back on our screens for mere minutes, but the ‘X Factor’ arena audition stage is set to come to a close tonight, and the judges have just a handful of places left at bootcamp.

As always, variety is the order of the day, and tonight’s show (Sunday 19 September) is no different, with rap groups, married duos and a peppering of second chancers hoping to impress Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Rita Ora and Nick Grimshaw - but which auditions do you need to see? Here are our top five…

Anton Banaghan

anton x factor

Stepping out in front of the judges is difficult enough, so hats off to Anton for travelling over from Tipperary solo, and giving it his all. The 21-year-old decides to tackle George Ezra’s ‘Budapest’, and the pressures on when Cheryl and Simon both announce that they love the track.

Can he give the song his own spin and win over the panel?

Nige And Kay

There’s a whole segment of tonight’s show dedicated to lovely pairings, but there’s a very fine line between super-sweet couple and vom-inducing duo. Nige and Kay make their task even harder, by performing Olly Murs and Demi Lovato’s duo ‘Up’, while ‘Xtra Factor’ presenter Olly waits in in the wings.

Megan Dallas

x factor auditions

Seemingly shy Megan sidles onto the stage with her acoustic guitar in hand, so when she announced that she’s going to give TLC’s 10/10 banger ‘Waterfall’ a go, it’s surprising to say the least.

Obviously, as the song builds, that age old question rears its head again: “Will she rap?” Stay tuned to find out.

DTour

dtour

Boyz II Men wannabes DTour were put together by their managers Debbie and Paul, just three weeks before their audition. Like many of this year’s acts, Christian Jules, Nico-Paul Rooney, Solomon Henry, Michael Perez, Naasson Swan and Elias Hendricks are asked to perform a second track by music mogul Si, and to say things are tense is an understatement.

Can the turn it around and bag a place at Bootcamp?

Lucy Duffield

x factor

Lucy looks - and sounds - familiar to one of the judges, who has seen her performing before. The solo singer was once signed to Polydor, however when things didn’t work out, she decided to turn her back on the entertainment industry. Well, until now obviously.

Is the ‘X Factor’ set to provide her a (second) big break?

When one ~~door~~ arena closes, another ~~door~~ country house opens, so tune in on Sunday night to see the bootcamp round begin.

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‘Celebrity Big Brother': Farrah Abraham Leaves The ‘CBB' House

September 19, 2015, 2:31 am

≫ Next: Take That Reunion: Robbie Williams' Rep Responds To 2016 Tour Rumours

≪ Previous: ‘X Factor': Five Auditions To Look Out For On Saturday, In Final Show Before Bootcamp Rounds

Farrah Abraham exited the ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ house for good on Friday night, after a live eviction showdown, against her best pal Jenna Jameson.

Both women had just 10 seconds to plead with Austin Armacost, who had the power to save one of them, however instead of trying to save their own skins, Farrah calmly told Austin to save Jenna, while her bestie vouched for her.

celebrity big brother

Farrah makes her exit

Once out of the Borehamwood bungalow, Farah insisted that she was happy with the result, telling Emma Willis: “I'm happy with their choice. I don't care either way. I'm very pleased."

Farah’s had an eventful time on ‘CBB’, and during her recent stint in a not-so-secret room with Jenna, she was given the chance to spy on the other housemates, though obviously, Big Brother had a twist in store.

It’s fair to say Farrah never saw eye-to-eye with Bobby Davro, who at one point, told her: “You are truly a beautiful woman. But beauty does not exist totally on the outside. You are possibly one of the ugliest people I have ever had to have the misfortune of sharing my time with.

"No amount of lipgloss will disguise the ugliness that lives inside of you." Ouch!

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