Quantcast
Channel: United Kingdom
Viewing all 19834 articles
Browse latest View live

Two People Watch 'James Bond' For The First Time, With Hilarious Results

$
0
0
As far as film releases go, it doesn’t get much bigger than a new James Bond installment, and with the 24th movie, 'Spectre', out today (26 October), fans of 007 are currently beside themselves with excitement.

READ MORE:


However, the Bond phenomenon hasn’t swept over everyone, and despite the MI6 spy being as ingrained in British culture as a cuppa, unbelievably there are still some people who haven’t seen a single film in the franchise.

Two such individuals include HuffPost UK’s very own Daniel Welsh and Rachel McGrath, who unashamedly admit they just don’t get what all the fuss is about when it comes to Mr Bond.

james bond
HuffPost UK's Daniel and Rachel watch 'James Bond' for the first time


With a limited knowledge of the film series between them, we invited Daniel and Rachel to a special screening of the very first James Bond film, 1962’s ‘Dr. No’, starring Sean Connery.

After plying them with cheap wine and questionable snacks, we turned on the cameras to find out exactly what their thoughts were on Bond’s womanising ways, his toned torso and *that* Ursula Andress scene (let’s just say Tulisa was a point of cultural reference).

Watch the video above to find out what happened...



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.


'X Factor' Final 12 Are Revealed, But Who Should Win The 2015 Series? Vote In Our Poll...

$
0
0
After months of scouring the country for the best undiscovered talent, the 'X Factor' judges have finally revealed who has made it through to the live shows.

READ MORE:


The final 12 were unveiled over two nights of special Judges Houses' episodes on Saturday and Sunday (24, 25 October), with Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Rita Ora and Nick Grimshaw revealing their choices live to the nation.

And with the line-up now in place, the competition is about to really heat up, as the contestants get ready to sing their hearts out week after week on the famous 'X Factor' stage, in the hope of securing the public's vote.

The bookies seem to think that Louisa Johnson has already got the series all sewn up, with William Hill listing her as 9/4 favourite to win the show, just ahead of 4th Impact at 9/2 and Che Chesterman at 5/1.

But who is your early favourite to win the competition? Have your say in our poll below...

The X Factor continues on Saturday (31 October) at 8pm on ITV.






LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

Getting Yourself and Your Home Autumn Ready

$
0
0
2015-10-26-1445862728-880416-blog5.jpg

As the seasons change and the days get colder, our bodies and homes need rebooting. It's a time to make your home more nurturing and cosy, somewhere you want to spend more time in as the nights get longer, and a time to really look after yourself as well.

The most important thing to remember though is not to go into full-on 'winter mode' as soon as soon as you notice it start to get a little chilly. Prepare for winter gradually to ease yourself into it - don't get the wool blankets out just yet! Layer up slowly - both with your clothes and with your home. I don't have my tights on yet - I'm still in my brogues. Apply this to the home too, start to introduce warmer textiles but hold your thickest ones back for when the temperatures start to really drop. That way you are saving those key comfort pieces for when you really need them and can add layers over time.

2015-10-26-1445862761-6052747-blog2.jpg

The simplest thing to start with is revamping your textiles, an easy way to introduce different colours and textures to your home. Use these to incorporate more autumnal tones, and take inspiration from different natural textures around you. Autumn leaves have so many wonderful hues - plums, khakis, golden orange tones. Incorporate these into your home so that you're mirroring the outside around you and you are at ease with it. So many elements of interiors look better and more appealing in autumn - long, draped curtains, bedspreads and throws - so don't be afraid to incorporate heavier textures and vibrant colours.

Your rooms are naturally going to be darker in the winter months, so I believe it's really important to look at the best ways to brighten up these spaces. Let there be more light - add candles. They can really enhance a space and make it cosy and inviting while adding warm, comforting scents as well. Lighting in your home should be something which works all year round - consider lighting which brightens up a room at night-time but also provides great light for darker autumn days too.

2015-10-26-1445862802-3316928-blog6.jpg

Plants are also something which are important to look at changing seasonally, and can be a brilliant mood-booster too. Replace white summer lilies with bold fiery red dahlias to reflect the colours of autumn. It doesn't just have to be flowers, either - twigs displayed in white sand can be great focal points and an excellent way to showcase autumnal nature indoors.

I think it's not only important to get your home ready for the colder weather, but yourself, as well. We need to prepare for autumn and winter so we are not shocked into the new seasons. The colder months can be hugely exciting - it's so important not to dread them just because it's cold, and to look at all the wonderful things the seasons bring with them. Long, cosy nights, candle-lit evenings, Sundays by the fire - there is so much to enjoy. Take time out to heal your mind and use your downtime to nourish yourself. Eat more comforting foods to keep your energy up when your body starts to go into hibernation mode. I love recipes like this one from Honestly Healthy for an evening warmer that's good for you.

And then, before you know it, it's time to get ready for Christmas. I'll be letting you know the best way to get prepared for the big season - don't panic!

-- 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.

James Bond 'Spectre' World Premiere: Daniel Craig And Rachel Weisz Look Seriously Loved Up As They Meet The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

$
0
0
James Bond brushed off his best tux for on Monday evening, as Daniel Craig joined young royals HRH Duke and Duchess of Cambridge along with Prince Harry on the red carpet, for the world premiere of 'Spectre'.

READ MORE:


Some fans had been waiting at London's Royal Albert Hall since Saturday in a bid to catch a glimpse of the film’s stars.

As well as Mr.Craig, also attending was this year's villain Christoph Waltz and co-stars Monica Bellucci, Lea Seydoux, David Batista, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, Andrew Scott, Rory Kinnear and Ben Whishaw.

spectre premiere

Speaking on the red carpet, Daniel said he couldn’t wait for fans to see the new film - 007's 24th screen outing.

"It's just fantastic to see everybody out tonight. I'm not overwhelmed, I'm very excited and I can't wait for people to see the movie," he said.



The film's director Sam Mendes added: "I'm very proud and quite nervous, but I'm used to the theatre where things can go wrong.

"With a movie, everyone is going to give the same performance... so that aspect isn't too nerve-wracking.

"I want people to like it, I want people to like it as much as I do. I'm really proud of it, we sweated blood over it for two years. I'm really thrilled and a bit relieved."

spectre premiere

After meeting fans, Daniel couldn’t resist planting a kiss on his wife, actress actress Rachel Weisz, as they waited to meet their royal guests along with the other cast members.

spectre premiere

The cast were also joined by other well known faces, including David Walliams, Susanna Reid, Joan Collins, Chris Evans and Sam Smith, who wrote and performs the theme song.

'Spectre' sees a cryptic message from the past sending James Bond (Daniel Craig) on a rogue mission to Mexico City and eventually Rome, where he meets Lucia Sciarra (Monica Bellucci), the beautiful and forbidden widow of an infamous criminal.

sam smith spectre

Bond infiltrates a secret meeting and uncovers the existence of the sinister organisation known as SPECTRE. Meanwhile back in London, Max Denbigh (Andrew Scott), the new head of the Centre for National Security, questions Bond’s actions and challenges the relevance of MI6, led by M (Ralph Fiennes).

susanna reid

Bond covertly enlists Moneypenny (Naomie Harris) and Q (Ben Whishaw) to help him seek out Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux), the daughter of his old nemesis Mr White (Jesper Christensen), who may hold the clue to untangling the web of SPECTRE. As the daughter of an assassin, she understands Bond in a way most others cannot.

'Spectre' is set to open across the UK from 26 October.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

Susanna Reid Gives The Bond Women A Run For The Money While Hosting ‘Spectre' Premiere (PICS)

$
0
0
Susanna Reid ditched her demure daywear on Monday night, attending the ‘Spectre’ premiere in a glam silver gown.

READ MORE:


The ‘Good Morning Britain’ presenter was in charge of hosting the star-studded event, alongside David Walliams.

susanna reid
Susanna Reid


Susanna arrived on the red carpet ahead of the movie’s stars, upping the glam levels with a fitted, backless gown, paired with a fur bolero.

The former ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ contestant kept her other accessories simple, sporting a slick of red lipstick and low-key jewelry.

susanna reid
Susanna was a winner in the style stakes


David also put on a dapper display, donning a white tuxedo and black trousers, and the pair arrived together in a 1951 Rolls Royce.

susanna reid
David and Susanna give everyone a lesson in how to arrive in style


The ‘Spectre’ premiere was attended by all of the film’s key cast members, including Bond himself, Daniel Craig, along with Lea Seydoux, Monica Bellucci, Naomie Harris and Andrew Scott, as well as Prince William and Kate Middleton.

daniel craig monica
The 'Spectre' stars strike a pose


Daniel and his wife Rachel Weisz shared a PDA shortly before the Royals arrived, and all guests then headed in for a first look at the hotly-anticipated film, which has been praised in early reviews.

Check out all the snaps from the premiere below...



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

Nigella Lawson Reveals How She'd Rate Her Chances On 'Great British Bake Off'

$
0
0
Nigella Lawson has revealed how she thinks she’d fare on ‘Great British Bake Off’, and if you’re thinking that she’d probably walk it in the competition then we're afraid to say you’re wrong.

The superstar chef might be world famous nowadays, but she doesn’t think her skills would be enough to even win a place on the BBC1 show.

nigella lawson
Nigella Lawson


Speaking to Radio Times, she explains: “People know how limited my skills are. I wouldn’t get on Bake Off, it’s too complicated.”

Well, if Nigella couldn’t make it onto ‘Bake Off’, there’s certainly no hope for us. *puts the whisk back into the drawer and steps out of the kitchen*

“I like baking in a homespun kind of way,” Nigella continues. “If I make cookies I don’t expect them all to look the same.

“I’m not being modest. I’m a home cook.”


The chef is currently celebrating the release of her latest book, ‘Simply Nigella: Feel Good Food’, and she’ll also be returning to our TV screens next month, with a new BBC2 series.

Nigella recently shared her thoughts on the current trend for ‘clean-eating’, admitting that she has reservations about strict diets.

"I wouldn’t want a life where I lived on chia seed pudding, just as I wouldn’t want a life where I lived on eggs Benedict or steak and chips," she said. "I love kale and I'm an avocado obsessive. But life is about balance, it's not about being smug. You don't eat things because you think they're good for you."

"Also, you can guarantee that what people think will be good for you this year, they won’t next year.”

Read Nigella's full interview in the latest edition of Radio Times, out now.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

'Bridge Of Spies' Star Tom Hanks Blasts Cancer 'Quacks', Making Money By Promising False Hope To Sick Cancer Patients

$
0
0
Hollywood veteran Tom Hanks has blasted the cancer "quacks" he accuses of trying to make money out of patients seeking treatment for the disease.

The double Oscar winner, whose wife Rita Wilson has had surgery since being diagnosed with breast cancer last December, tells news.com.au in an interview of his belief in a "predatory philosophy" that happens when a patient goes public with their illness.

tom hanks
Tom Hanks with his wife Rita Wilson, who has been having treatment for breast cancer following diagnosis last year


He says: “It’s funny. As soon as you come out about cancer there’s this odd kind of backlash that goes along with it.”

“There’s a predatory philosophy that happens where people find out that you have a certain illness, particularly cancer, and they will try and make money off of you, pushing procedures that might have a degree of science to them and there are others that are absolute quacks just trying to make money.”

He adds: “You should Google the word (cancer). Everything from ‘You must eat peach pits’ to ‘Go to this clinic in Bolivia and you’ll be cured!’ will come up. S*** goes on like that and it’s astounding to me. It all adds to the difficulty, and we are lucky we can afford good medical care, but there are people who are dealing and selling in false hopes.

“All I can say is God bless my wife and God bless her courage.”

Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson have been married since 1988. Along with all his acting and producing accomplishments, Rita is a Hollywood player in her own right, producing 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' and acting as exec producer on hit musical 'Mamma Mia!'

Tom, whose films have grossed more than $8billion at the global box office, is set to star in Steven Spielberg's thriller 'Bridge of Spies', along with Mark Rylance, Amy Ryan and Alan Alda. Based on the true-life story of a 1960 U-2 incident during the Cold War, the film tells the story of lawyer James B Donovan (Hanks), entrusted with negotiating the release of a US pilot in excxhange for a Soviet KGB spy.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

'EastEnders' Spoiler: Shabnam Masood Realises Stacey Might Be Hiding A HUGE Secret (PICS)

$
0
0
Shabnam Masood is set for a shocking discovery in ‘EastEnders’, as she realises Martin Fowler may not be the father of her pal Stacey’s baby.

MORE 'EASTENDERS':


Fans have speculated over who the dad is for months, and viewers will finally see the issue addressed on screen, in the week running up to Shabnam and Kush’s wedding.

stacey shabnam eastenders
Shabnam begins to question her best friend


Rakhee Thakrar’s character will begin to have doubts after Stacey overreacts when she finds a baby scan picture.

Stacey raises Shabnam’s suspicions when she chucks her out of the flat, and a later conversation with Martin Fowler leads Shabnam to realise that things may not be as they seem with the couple.

With her own wedding to think about, Shabnam continues to make plans, but when she reveals her wedding speech to her pal, Stacey becomes emotional.

eastenders stacey
Will she tell her Shabnam the truth?


eastenders shabnam
Stacey leaves the Mendhi


While Kush and Shabnam’s wedding is planned for later this month, Martin is yet to pop the question to Stacey, though fans will see him get down on one knee during the Halloween special.

shabnam kjush
Will their wedding go ahead?


Actor James Bye previously teased what he thinks would happen if the baby isn’t Martin’s, stating: “He’s put so much effort in with Stacey and he’s been knocked back so many times.

“Now he’s got this thing which is a normal relationship, he’s head over heels in love with her and starting to feel that in return. He’s got a unit which is what he wants. For him to find out that it’s not his…”

Watch ‘EastEnders’ next week to see these events unfold.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.


Dan Osborne And Jacqueline Jossa Laugh Off Cheating Claims, As Two Women Say Former 'TOWIE' Star Invited Them Back To His Hotel

$
0
0
Dan Osborne and Jacqueline Jossa have laughed off claims the former ‘TOWIE’ star invited two girls back to his hotel room following a recent club appearance.

READ MORE:


The couple were hit by fresh cheating claims at the weekend when two friends sold a story to the Sunday People, and claimed that Dan had asked them back at his hotel, after he inviting them to join him in the VIP area at Gallery club in Maidstone, Kent earlier in the evening.

dan osborne jacqueline jossa
Dan Osborne and Jacqueline Jossa


Dan has now taken to Twitter to vehemently deny the reports, hitting out at the women, Sharn Alford and Candace Evans.

He tweeted: “Seen that all the other online ‘news’ and mags have wrote about these ‘cheating allegations’ I think it's actually comedy

“I didn't stay in a hotel I was in bed with my fiancée that night. These 2 girls have embarrassed themselves, I hate to be horrible but.. Even if I had no relationship, no kids, no life, no friends, no home, no money and no eye sight.. I still wouldn't go to a hotel with them.”










Jacqueline also stuck up for her fiance, with whom she shares eight-month-old daughter Ella, writing: “To be fair, if this was true, which it's not as he came home to me, dear god, I would feel more sorry for him than me! #lookers.”




Sharn previously told the Sunday People that she and Candace left the club hand-in-hand with Dan.

“He was holding our hands. He asked us to go back to his hotel room,” she claimed.

“He just said it to me and my mate – it wasn’t like we were being invited back to a big party. We knew he had a girlfriend, we said that to him, but he didn’t seem bothered.”

A spokesperson for Dan also insisted the girls’ claims were rubbish, saying: “Dan has said there is no truth in this whatsoever.

“Also, he wasn’t staying overnight at a hotel and he returned home after leaving the club.”

However, it is not the first time Dan has been accused of cheating on ‘EastEnders’ star Jacqueline.

His ex-girlfriend Megan Tomlin, who he shares one-year-old son Teddy with, claimed that she was still sleeping with Dan when he first started seeing the Lauren Branning actress - something which he has denied.

She made the claims after a newspaper published recordings of Dan threatening to “stab” her, during a blazing row.

He later apologised, stating he was “disgusted” with his behaviour, insisting he would never hurt a woman.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

'Adele At The BBC': Record-Breaking Star To Perform Classic Tracks And Chat With Graham Norton In One-Off Special

$
0
0
Adele will be performing classic tracks as well as material from her brand new album '25' during an hour-long special 'Adele at the BBC', which will also see her sit down to chat with Graham Norton.

READ MORE:


The record-breaking singer will be singing live with her own band, during the one-off show, to be broadcast on BBC One in November.

adele
Adele is coming back to the BBC


It will be Adele’s first television performance since she performed ‘Skyfall’ at the 85th Academy Awards in February 2013, where she won Best Original Song for the theme tune to the 23rd James Bond film.

She says: "I can't wait for the show. The BBC has been wonderful to me over the years and Graham and I get on great so it's going to be a laugh."

The BBC can boast that they have supported Britain's biggest musical export since the very beginning of her career. Her first ever play was ‘Daydreamer’ on Reggie Yates' BBC Radio 1 show. ‘Hometown Glory’ was first played on the radio by Zane Lowe on Radio 1 in 2007, and she made her debut television performance on Later With Jools Holland on BBC Two in the same year, performing ‘Daydreamer’.

Graham Norton says: “This is the music event of the year and I'm thrilled to be part of bringing it to BBC One. This opportunity to spend an hour with Adele, her music and her stories is a truly rare treat. If I wasn't hosting this special I'd be sat at home watching it!”

Adele goes from strength to strength as she prepares to reveal her eagerly-awaited new album. The first single from '25' was released last Friday and has already seen her overtake Taylor Swift with Vimeo's most popular ever video.

Tickets for the BBC event will be available via an audience ballot. Registration to apply is open from now until midnight on Wednesday 28 October – please visit bbc.co.uk/music for further details.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

'James Bond': Danny Dyer Just Proved Why He Should Replace Daniel Craig As The Next 007

$
0
0
If you’d ever wondered what it would be like if Danny Dyer was the next James Bond, then wonder no more.

READ MORE:


The ‘EastEnders’ actor has shown us all the unique qualities (and vocabulary) he would bring to the role of 007, if he were ever to land the part.

danny dyer daniel craig james bond
Danny Dyer and Daniel Craig


In a series of videos posted on Twitter, Danny dubbed his voice over scenes from various Bond films, and the result makes us wish Daniel Craig would hand in his notice immediately.

Here’s a few things that would happen if the eastend bad boy took over as MI6’s golden boy…

Bond’s drink of choice would no longer be a Martini, and it certainly wouldn’t be shaken or stirred.




And 007 wouldn’t always have full control of his bowels.




Especially when he saw a spider.




But he would still “have a roll about” with the ladies, and would even wash his bits before hand “out of respect”.




Or, if producers didn’t think he was *quite* suitable for the role, he’d be the perfect Bond villain.




SOMEONE PLEASE MAKE THIS HAPPEN.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER


-- 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.

To Celebrate 'Outlander' Home Release, Here Is Our All-Time Top Ten List Of The Best Time Travel TV Shows - What's Your Favourite?

$
0
0
The concept of time travel has been a popular science-fiction staple ever since H.G. Wells wrote 'The Time Machine' in 1895. On television, time travel has been used in a variety of intriguing ways, with some shows using it for comedy value, some exploring the wider consequences of temporal manipulation and some using it merely as an excuse to place regular characters in a different setting each week.

To celebrate the release of 'Outlander' on DVD and Blu-ray, we present our list of the top ten time travel TV shows. What's your favourite?






Outlander: Seasons 1 is available on Blu-ray and DVD now.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER





-- 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.

Ben Haenow Doesn't Deserve to be the Next Flop 'X Factor' Winner, And It's Time His Label Realised That

$
0
0
When the latest Official Chart was announced on Friday (23 October), my heart went out to Ben Haenow.

After winning The X Factor in December last year, the singer has been out of the limelight in recent months, beavering away in the studio recording his debut album.

Fans had been told he'd been flown across the globe to work with some of the best writers and producers, and it looked like his label were throwing their full support behind him.

All the signals were there that he could be the man to break the curse of the male X Factor winner, and succeed where the likes of Steve Brookstein, Joe McElderry, Matt Cardle and James Arthur had failed before him.

But after Ben announced the first single to be taken from his album Second Hand Heart, things seemed to go downhill pretty quickly, as it became clear that he maybe wasn't his label Syco's top priority.

As a result, Second Hand Heart missed the top 20 altogether, limping into the chart at a number 21.

So where did it all go wrong for the former van driver from Croydon? And can he bounce back from it? Let's examine the evidence...

  1. While not totally disastrous move, fans were still surprised when it was announced that his first post-victory single would be a duet featuring original American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson, making him the first X Factor winner to launch their debut album campaign with a collaboration. Maybe label bosses thought Kelly's wide appeal would help shift copies of the single, but the message it sent out was that they didn't trust Ben to sell enough by himself.


  2. When details of the single were revealed in September, it was announced that it would be on sale on 9 October. But just a week later, its release was pushed back by seven days, with Ben telling fans that the track wasn't quite ready, despite official previews of it already circulating online.


  3. This move proved puzzling, given that a release date of 16 October placed him in direct competition with One Direction, who were set to unveil their latest offering Perfect on the same day. As Syco also have 1D on their books, it seemed crazy that the label had decided to launch him on the same week the world's biggest boyband released new material. It almost was like they were setting him up to fail, placing him in an impossible - yet completely avoidable - chart battle.


  4. As if that wasn't enough, Syco then announced details of Fleur East's debut single. Viewers were shocked when she finished runner-up to Ben during last year's final, but mentor Simon Cowell publicly backed both of them, not seeming to have a favourite. But launching Fleur's career at the same time as Ben seems to suggest his priorities are split. Moving the release of her debut, Sax, back a week to avoid a chart battle with Adele after she dropped comeback single 'Hello' unexpectedly, only reinforced how mad and unfair it was to pit Ben against 1D.


  5. With the X Factor live shows now just around the corner, it is usually tradition to invite the winner back to perform their new track on the first results show. But with just five days to go, there's been no announcement on whether Ben will return to the show, with Little Mix and Ellie Goulding rumoured to be performing instead. Meanwhile, Fleur has been confirmed to be performing on 8 November...


  6. Then, in what can only be seen as a particularly shady move, Ben was reduced to becoming a 'Bophead' in one of the TalkTalk break bumpers that air in the X Factor ad breaks - something that is usually reserved for members of the public. Ouch indeed.


  7. After bagging one of the biggest gigs of his career so far, performing at the Oxford Street Christmas Lights switch on alongside Kylie Minogue, the spring must have been taken out of his step when he discovered that not only is Fleur performing at the event, she's also got a higher billing than him.


What Ben needs now is a massive push from both his label and management, in order to save his career and stop his album from flopping too. With his eponymous LP due for release on 13 November, he needs to be appearing on any TV or radio show that will have him - so far I've not seen one live performance or interview. If Syco also want to prove they really do have his back, then a slot on The X Factor is an absolute must, and one that needs to happen ASAP.

Ben's proven he's got the talent, and with his rugged good looks and cheeky personality, there's no reason why he shouldn't be the next success story of the show. The snippets of material we've heard so far have been the best that any male winner has produced, and certainly aren't deserving of a place in the bargain bin alongside Joe, Matt and co's offerings.

UPDATE: With in a few hours of this blog being published, Ben announced he would be performing on The X Factor on Sunday 1 November. About time too.

-- 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.

As Britain's First Out Muslim Drag Queen, I Am Comfortable With Both My Male and Female Identities

$
0
0
HuffPost UK is running a month-long focus around masculinity in the 21st century, and the pressures men face around identity. To address some of the issues at hand, Building Modern Men presents a snapshot of life for men, from bringing up young boys to the importance of mentors, the challenges between speaking out and 'manning up' as well as a look at male violence, body image, LGBT identity, laddism, sports, male friendship and mental illness.


Religion perpetuates masculinity in ethnic communities. The male is the breadwinner, he is strong, dominant and heads the family. He's the foundation that will preserve society and will forward the familial status be it in wealth or prominence.

Women have always been the child bearers, the supporters and the ones who take care and bring up the rest of the family.

This was very true of my upbringing. The earliest memories I have of my dad is him always working and instilling a heavy work ethic in me. My earliest memories of my mum were cooking and cleaning and dropping me and my sister off to school every morning. It was instilled in me that I would one day have to take my dad's place and become the breadwinner and the one to provide security to my family.

I was always an effeminate child and this would be discouraged by my parents. In my community there are strict guidelines. A man must be a man and a woman must be a woman. There are no in betweens.

When I came out as gay and then a drag queen, this caused so many questions of masculinity and femininity in my family. More importantly the fear of what the community would think of their over effeminate son gripped my parents. This continues to be the case today even though I am Britain's First Out Muslim Drag Queen.

I have always been comfortable with my gender as a man. Expressing myself as Asifa Lahore was a massive challenge due to my upbringing. As a teenager I remember locking myself in my room, blasting out the Spice Girls on my stereo and dancing around effeminately and singing along. Whenever I knew my mum was out I would muster up the courage to go into her room trying on her make up and sometimes even her glamorous sarees. At the time I didn't know why I felt such a strong desire to do it, to express my inner woman and inner queen. I came out to my parents at the age of 23 and it was only at the age of 27 that I began performing as Asifa Lahore. It was as if I had to conquer all those years of being 'being a man' just to perform like I used to do as a teenager in my bedroom.

Today I am comfortable with both my male and female identities. Asifa Lahore will always be a part of me and identity I will never deny. I'd like to believe that there is a growing trend of men being more fluid about their gender within the British Muslim community but the reality is that visibility of these men is ridiculously low and if they ever choose to declare their gender fluidity they have to conquer their internal notions of masculinity and femininity in which they were brought up.

To get involved with Building Modern Men, email uklifestyle@huffingtonpost.com. If you would like to use our blogging platform, email ukblogteam@huffingtonpost.com. If you would like to read our features focused around men, click here, and for more about our partnership with Southbank Centre's Being A Man festival, click here.

-- 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.

Bill Bailey's Tour Bus 'Nicked' From Car Park During Performance In Liverpool

$
0
0
Bill Bailey’s tour bus was stolen on Monday… in Liverpool. The comedian was performing at the city's Philharmonic Hall when the Mercedes Sprinter Splitter van was swiped from the car park. The 51-year-old tweeted:




The thieves first gained access to the production room to lift a laptop and the keys before making off with the bus, which had tour merchandise on board.

The comic asked for local help in catching the criminals, making an appeal on his Facebook page.

Scousers, keep 'em peeled...At 2.30pm yesterday afternoon (Mon 26th October) two thieves entered the Liverpool...

Posted by Bill Bailey on Tuesday, 27 October 2015




According to PA, Merseyside Police confirmed they are investigating and are studying CCTV footage. "Merseyside Police can confirm that yesterday (Monday October 26), officers received a report that a Mercedes Sprinter van was stolen from the car park of the Royal Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, at around 2.30pm,” a statement read.

The statement continued: "Officers believe keys for the van were stolen from an office at the location. Inquiries are ongoing at this time, CCTV is being examined and anyone with information is encouraged to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

-- 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.


Bob Mortimer Undergoes Triple Heart Bypass Leading To Cancellation Of UK Tour With Vic Reeves

$
0
0
Comedian Bob Mortimer is recovering after undergoing a triple heart bypass operation.

The surgery has meant the star’s UK tour with his comedy partner Vic Reeves has been shelved.

The 56-year-old was due to take to the stage in Glasgow next month to kick off the pair’s 25th anniversary tour.

bob mortimer
Bob Mortimer


Following his op, Vic Reeves said: "I'm so pleased the operation has gone well and Bob is fixed. Many thanks to the surgeon."

Bob’s spokesman added that the comic needed "several weeks" to recover from the operation.

"Bob would like to thank his consultant and all the nursing staff at the hospital for looking after him so well,” his spokesman said.

"He now needs several weeks to fully recover, so unfortunately the first leg of the UK tour will be cancelled.

"Bob very much hopes to be fit and well enough to perform the second leg in January next year."

Since hearing the news, many of Bob's friends from the entertainment and comedy world have shared their best wishes on Twitter...
















Bob and Vic were due to kick off their ‘25 Years Of Reeves And Mortimer: The Poignant Moments’ tour in Glasgow next month.

bob mortimer
Vic and Bob


When the tour was announced earlier this year, Mortimer said: ''Playing in front of a living audience is where it all began for us."

He added: ''I will ensure that Vic arrives at all dates smartly dressed and unarmed. I promise not to mention football, JLS or apricots during the performances. Should you choose to attend, be warned - I will be not be wearing a toupee.''

All ticket holders for performances from 8 November to 4 December are advised to contact their point of purchase for a refund.

It is hoped the January and February 2016 shows will go ahead as planned.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

Halle Berry And Olivier Martinez Confirm They Are To Divorce Just Two Years After Getting Married

$
0
0
Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez have confirmed they are to divorce, just two years after walking down the aisle.

The Hollywood actress and her French actor husband, who have a two-year-old son together, said they wished each other ‘nothing but happiness’ in a statement.

halle berry olivier martinez
Halle Berry and Olivier Martiniz


"It is with a heavy heart that we have come to the decision to divorce," the actors said in the statement.

"‎We move forward with love and respect for one another and the shared focus of what is best for our son.

"We wish each other nothing but happiness in life and we hope that you respect our and, most importantly, our children's privacy as we go through this difficult period."

According to TMZ, Halle cited irreconcilable differences in divorce papers.

halle berry olivier martinez

A source close to the couple told the US website: "They have a personality difference."

Another source added: "They're just very, very different people. He's a very macho guy, and things just didn't jive."

The couple, both 49, married in July 2013 in a private ceremony in France.

Two months earlier, the Oscar-winning actress announced she was expecting a baby with Olivier. Their son, Maceo, was born later the same year.

halle berry

The ‘Monster’s Ball’ actress has been married twice before, having previously wed baseball player David Justice and singer Eric Benet.

It was Olivier’s first marriage, having previously dated Kylie Minogue.

Earlier this year, an airport employee alleged that the actor used a car seat to shove him out of his way as he walked through LAX airport with Halle.

Olivier was also involved in a fist fight with Halle’s ex, Canadian model Gabriel Aubry, during her bitter custody battle over their 7-year-old daughter Nahla.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

Professor Green Uses Newsnight Appearance To Tell Men 'Don't Think Less Of Yourself For Crying'

$
0
0
One of Britain's best-selling rap artists last night gave an emotional account of his drive to break down the stigma and taboo surrounding suicide on national television.

Professor Green, who has long campaigned for better treatment of men with mental health illnesses, led by example when he told viewers of BBC 2's ' Newsnight' on Tuesday: "Don't think less of yourself for crying".

The musician has spoken out before frequently about losing his father to suicide after a bitter battle with depression, and for years pioneered new ways to push for greater emotional support for men.

Suicide remains the single greatest cause of death for men under 40.

But talking hours after his latest documentary, 'Suicide And Me', aired, Green said he hoped the programme would "change the perception of people who take their own lives" and dispel the ignorance around men's mental health issues.

self esteem team turn on the light
Green appearing in a previous campaign with other prominent stars


"To think about what anyone goes through, and this is one thing I hope comes from the programme, is that we change the perception of people who take their own lives," the 30-year-old told presenter Evan Davis.

"Because there's this ignorance towards it, which only helps the taboo and creates more stigma around it.

"People who take their own lives are not selfish, they often think quite the opposite - and that's what I hope changes."

Asked by the Newsnight frontman what Green would say to him [his father] now, the artist replied in a tearful exchange: "My dad? You muppet - you idiot."

After the interview concluded, Green tweeted in response to some reactions on social media and by other news organisations.

He posted: "'Reduced to tears' is a terrible turn of phrase and exactly where we are going wrong as humans. Don't think less of yourself for crying X."




Hundreds piled in to congratulate Green on his performance, praising his bravery and honesty.













Green, who's real name is Stephen Manderson, lost his father seven years ago.

When he began making a separate documentary about suicide he discovered one of his dad's brothers had also hanged himself and another had died in a diabetic coma, believed to have been self-inflicted.

Useful websites and helplines:
  • Samaritans offers a listening service which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill.)

  • Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393

  • Get Connected is a free advice service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email: help@getconnected.org.uk

  • HopeLine runs a confidential advice helpline if you are a young person at risk of suicide or worried about a young person at risk of suicide. Mon-Fri 10-5pm and 7pm-10pm. Weekends 2pm-5pm on 0800 068 41 41


SEE ALSO:


HuffPost UK is partnering with Southbank Centre’s Being A Man Festival, taking place 27 - 29 November. It will focus on lighthearted, serious and challenging issues facing boys and men in the 21st century. There will be talks and debates, concerts, performances, comedy and workshops with contributions from over 200 speakers and performers, including Akala, Frankie Boyle, David Baddiel and Kellie Maloney. Day passes are £15, 3-day passes are £35. For more information, visit the website or call 0844 847 9944.

-- 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.

‘Strictly Come Dancing': Peter Andre And Janette Manrara Could Leave The Competition Early, Warns Craig Revel-Horwood

$
0
0
He may have been an early favourite to win ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, but Peter Andre could be leaving the competition in the next few weeks, according to Craig Revel-Horwood.

MORE 'STRICTLY':


The judge has pointed out that while Peter and his partner Janette Manrara aren't at the bottom of the leaderboard each week, he’s not exactly flying high either.

peter andre strictly come dancing
Peter's no longer the favourite to win


Speaking to Woman magazine, he states: “Sorry to say it but Peter’s becoming a bit of an also-ran in the competition.

“Technically, he’s very good but he needs to stand out from the crowd more.

“I’d be worried if I were him. He’s missing the ‘It’ factor – and I want to see him fly not fail.”

Peter’s facing some stiff competition on ‘Strictly’ and Helen George, Kellie Bright and Jay McGuiness are just three other contestants who have seriously impressed the judges.

Jay even scored the first 10 of the series earlier this month, and his pro coach Aliona Vilani has been pushing him to get a buff bod like her previous partner and winner Harry Judd.

Speaking on ‘It Takes Two’, Jay said: “She made me do push-ups. Ten a day. But she makes me do them real, because Harry had great arms! She knows the real actual way of doing it, because I used to fake it."

‘Strictly’ continues on Saturday 21 October, with the annual Halloween special.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

Adele Credits Amy Winehouse With Inspiring Her To Become A Singer/Songwriter... But Admits Fame Terrifies Her

$
0
0
Adele has revealed it was Amy Winehouse who inspired her to ‘pick up a guitar’ and start writing songs in a revealing new interview.

READ MORE:


The singer, who released her first single, ‘Hello’, in two years last week, also admitted she felt ‘uncomfortable’ watching the recent ‘Amy' documentary because she felt it was ‘intrusive’.

She told i-D magazine: "If it wasn't for Amy and [her debut album] 'Frank', one hundred percent I wouldn't have picked up a guitar."

She added: "Contrary to reports, me and Amy didn't really know each other, we weren't friends or anything like that. I went to Brit School and she went for a little while. But a million percent if I hadn't heard 'Frank' this wouldn't have happened. I adored her."


adele
Adele is this month's i-D cover star


Adele says she wasn’t initially going to watch the documentary film about Amy’s life but was swayed by the positive reviews it received.

"I loved her and I went through my own massive grieving process as her fan,” she explained. “I'd finally got to a place where I felt really great about the impact she'd had on my life, in every way. I felt really, really fond of it all. But then I read this review of it and that made me go and see it.

"I got super emotional with the funeral footage. But I wasn't really that into the saved voicemails and stuff like that. I felt like I was intruding so I actually felt a little bit uncomfortable and that ruined it for me.

“I love watching her, but I kind of wish I hadn't seen it. But you know, I love Amy. I always have, I always will."


Story continues after the video...



The 27-year-old also admitted she fears fame could ruin her life, in the same way it robbed Amy of hers.

"I'm just frightened of it, you know?" she said.

"Frightened of it destroying me and it ruining me, and me getting lost and turning into some of the people that I love with my whole musical heart.

She continued: "And I get frightened for the people that I love, feeling like they've lost me."

Despite being the biggest female singer on the planet, Adele has managed to live a low key life out of the public eye since having her son, Angelo, but admits it’s not easy avoiding the paps.

"It's definitely harder to avoid it than it is to give into it,” she explains. “I think most people tend to give into it because it is easier, but I just can't."

"Me being photographed in Waitrose is being famous for no reason and that is something that I am not up for and I will not stand for, for myself.

"It's not me trying to be like f****** anti-famous c***, I just want to have a real life so I can write records," she said. "No one wants to listen to a record from someone that's lost touch with reality. So I live a low-key life for my fans."

Read the full interview with Adele in the latest issue of i-D, out now.



LIKE US ON FACEBOOK | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

-- 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.

Viewing all 19834 articles
Browse latest View live


<script src="https://jsc.adskeeper.com/r/s/rssing.com.1596347.js" async> </script>