Asyia Iftikhar

Dolly Parton cancelled an in-person appearance at Dollywood for the opening of the NightFlight Expedition attraction after experiencing dizziness and dehydration. Her Nashville doctor advised her not to travel, so she addressed fans virtually. Parton has been managing publicly disclosed health problems since September, including treatment that affected her ability to perform, and previously cancelled her Las Vegas residency and another Dollywood appearance after a kidney stone and infection. She said her condition is treatable and that she is improving.

Chris Brown and Usher are facing backlash over sexually explicit audience interactions during their joint North American tour, including a Toronto performance in which Brown simulated sex with a fan. Critics described the behavior as unnecessary, inappropriate and misogynistic. The controversy follows an earlier incident in which Usher removed a woman from the stage during a similar segment. Lionel Richie also criticized the pair during his own concert, contrasting their show with earlier R&B tours and referring to Brown's legal troubles. The tour is scheduled to continue through December, while Brown awaits sentencing in the UK over affray charges.

Katie Price is reportedly planning another breast augmentation in September while her husband, Dubai-based Lee Andrews, has been missing from public view since July 9. The report describes Andrews’ alleged travel ban, imprisonment, financial disputes, and accusations of fraud and deception, all of which he has denied or disputed. Price has defended him while acknowledging that relationship stress and concerns about her body image have contributed to her decision to undergo further cosmetic surgery.

Kate Beckinsale has discussed her diagnosis of mast cell activation syndrome and mast cell disease after receiving cruel comments about her weight and appearance. She said the condition was diagnosed 16 years ago, affects her stomach among other areas, and has contributed to weight loss, while grief, trauma and past illness have also affected her health. Beckinsale urged people to avoid judging strangers’ bodies, show compassion and seek medical advice for relevant symptoms.

Molly Ringwald ranked The Secret Life of an American Teenager as the worst of 10 projects discussed during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. Although she said she loved Shailene Woodley and much of the cast, Ringwald said one unnamed person made the experience particularly difficult. She also revisited earlier comments about predators and exploitation in Hollywood, while expressing concern that her daughter is entering the same acting profession.

Tom Holland reportedly earned between $20 million and $25 million for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, including his base salary and box-office bonuses. The film reportedly set a US opening-weekend record by surpassing Avengers: Endgame, grossed $1.05 billion worldwide in six days, and achieved a 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Holland's reported pay is substantially higher than his $1.5 million salary for Spider-Man: Homecoming and exceeds the earnings previously received by Spider-Man actors Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire. The article also highlights Holland's simultaneous role in Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, his promotional interviews, and his candid comments about marketing films.

A background extra in Friends’ second-season episode “The One with Five Steaks and an Eggplant” has long been mistaken for a young Matt Damon. Cross-referencing the episode and cast information shows that the man is only a Damon lookalike; Damon did not appear on Friends. The piece also highlights genuine early appearances by Cole Sprouse, Ellen Pompeo and Craig Robinson, while noting Damon’s early credits in films including Mystic Pizza, The Good Mother and Field of Dreams.

Stephen Bear was sentenced to 16 months in prison after pleading guilty to five breaches of sex offender notification requirements, including failing to report a trip to Brazil, a replacement passport and two bank cards. The court also condemned him for repeatedly posting victim-blaming accusations about former partner Georgia Harrison on social media in breach of a restraining order. Harrison praised Essex Police for treating the matter as serious image-based sexual abuse. Bear is due to face separate sentencing for breaching the restraining order.

Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz publicly celebrated the anniversary of their August 2025 vow renewal rather than their original April 2022 wedding. Reports say the couple intends to recognize the newer date because they associate the first wedding with family tensions and uncomfortable incidents. Brooklyn’s post emphasized his promise to protect Nicola, while both families remain estranged and the Beckhams were absent from the vow renewal.

Samantha Morton said it was painful and unexpectedly upsetting to learn that Scarlett Johansson had replaced her as the voice of the AI character Samantha in Spike Jonze’s film Her after Morton had already recorded the role. Morton accepted that directors control the final cut but wished she had been given another opportunity to record the character with an American accent. She also discussed the difficulty of finding work at 49, despite strong representation and recent acclaim for playing Circe in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, while remaining confident that she will continue acting into her 80s.

Bodybuilder Ahmad Rabus is reportedly set to join the BBC’s Gladiators reboot under the name The Emperor, apparently replacing fan favourite Giant, Jamie Bigg. The reported casting follows several departures and injuries involving Giant, Bionic, Athena and Cyclone. World’s Strongest Man winner Tom Stoltman has already been officially announced as a new Gladiator, while Joe Marler is reportedly discussing a guest appearance. Celebrity Gladiators has also seen Chris Ramsey withdraw after an injury, with Harry Clark stepping in.

Diane Morgan's performance as the robot Linda in the BBC comedy Ann Droid is praised as the culmination of her work in awkward and absurd comedic roles. The review highlights her physical comedy, precise timing, deadpan delivery and convincing portrayal of a humanoid with limited emotional expression, as well as Linda's heartwarming friendship with Sue Johnston's grieving widow. Ann Droid has attracted 4.6 million viewers across seven days, making it the BBC's highest-rated show aside from the World Cup and outperforming the earlier comedy Small Prophets. The success raises hopes for Linda and Sue's return in a future season.

Bear Grylls says his Christian faith continues to guide him not to judge people and to love and support those seeking forgiveness, defending his decision to participate in Russell Brand’s 2024 baptism. His comments come as Brand faces new rape and sexual assault charges, which he denies, and after acknowledging sex with a 16-year-old when he was 30. Grylls also discusses his faith, his book The Greatest Story Ever Told, and his new Prime Video series The Chosen in the Wild, in which he takes The Chosen cast—including Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus—on wilderness adventures. The six-part series is scheduled to stream from August 9, 2026.

The Rings of Power is set to return for a third season with substantially less focus on the Harfoots, a storyline the columnist found slow and tedious. The decision by showrunner J.D. Payne is welcomed as a potential way to improve the series, which has faced criticism despite its huge budget and large global audience. The new season is also expected to introduce Celeborn and depict the forging of the One Ring, developments that could build on the stronger reception to season two and help revive the show's reputation.

Danny Cipriani and his fiancée AnnaLynne McCord have asked guests to contribute to a Honeyfund registry to help pay for their wedding and honeymoon, despite reports of their combined wealth. Cipriani’s ex-wife Victoria Rose O’Callaghan condemned the appeal as tacky, suggested they use OnlyFans instead, and advised them to reduce the scale of the celebration. She has also criticized Cipriani’s handling of their 2023 separation and recently listed more than 40 items from his sporting career on Vinted after he declined to collect them.

A wedding guest described tensions at Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz’s 2022 Palm Beach wedding, claiming David Beckham delivered an unusually lengthy speech focused on his relationship with Brooklyn and barely mentioned Nicola. The guest also characterized the following-day brunch as deeply uncomfortable, while reports revisited disputes involving wedding planning and the intended mother-son dance. The account comes amid the Beckhams’ continuing estrangement from Brooklyn and Nicola, with Fat Tony urging sympathy for both sides of the family rupture.

Terry Slater, A-ha’s first manager and a former EMI executive, has died aged 85. He signed the then-unknown Norwegian trio in 1983 and helped guide the band’s rise to global success, including the 1985 hit “Take On Me.” A-ha’s Magne Furuholmen called Slater the most important person in the band’s career and a father figure to its members and families. Slater also worked with the Everly Brothers as a bassist and songwriter and was involved in the careers of artists including Queen, the Sex Pistols, Kate Bush and Duran Duran. Though A-ha changed management in the late 1990s, Slater remained closely associated with the band and appeared in the 2021 documentary A-ha: The Movie.

Sid Wilson has reportedly been permanently removed from Slipknot after nearly three decades with the band, although neither the group nor Wilson has provided an official explanation. Guitarist Jim Root responded to the rumors with a cryptic message urging fans not to believe everything they read and to wait for more information. The report places Wilson's departure within Slipknot's history of lineup changes, including the exits and deaths of other original members, while also noting his recent breakup with Kelly Osbourne.

Cat Deeley shared an Instagram slideshow showing herself mowing her lawn in a black bikini during the UK heatwave, prompting enthusiastic comments from fans. The post also featured summer food, drinks and outfits. The entertainment report links Deeley's upbeat summer to an apparent new romance with Charlie Coleman, following her separation from Patrick Kielty after 13 years of marriage.

Katherine Ryan warns Holly Willoughby that speaking openly could expose her to significant backlash because audiences have formed a fixed, parasocial image of her. In a conversation on Willoughby’s YouTube channel, Holly says she is afraid of expressing opinions, dislikes upsetting people and often sees both sides of an argument. The pair also discuss motherhood, Holly’s difficulty adjusting to her children becoming teenagers, and Ryan’s decision not to appear on Celebrity Traitors because of the time away from her children and restrictions on alcohol.

Naga Munchetty is leaving BBC Breakfast after 17 years to co-host the BBC 5 Live breakfast show from January, creating a vacancy on the programme’s presenting team. Nina Warhurst is the leading candidate according to betting odds, followed by Tina Daheley, Emma Vardy and Jon Kay. Sally Nugent is also reportedly being prepared for the role after BBC bosses praised her interview with Nigel Farage.

Ben Affleck and Jeopardy! champion Jamie Ding won the $1 million jackpot on the US version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, with the money going to Affleck’s Eastern Congo Initiative. They correctly answered questions about the first airplane flight and turkey names, ultimately taking host Jimmy Kimmel’s advice on the final question. The win followed Matt Damon’s victory on the show the previous year and prompted playful comparisons between the longtime friends.

TV presenter Fiona Phillips, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's in 2022, has appeared in a rare smiling photograph shared by her husband, Martin Frizell. Frizell described her advanced illness and the challenges of no longer being able to work while endorsing Andy Burnham's proposals for social care reform, drawing on Burnham's experience of his father's Alzheimer's. He also recalled how a letter from Kate McCann briefly helped lift Phillips's cognitive fog. The article outlines the symptoms and prevalence of young-onset Alzheimer's in the UK and highlights the family's hope for better-funded dementia care.

British actor Tom Chadbon has died aged 80, according to his agency, Fantom Events. Known for playing Duggan in Doctor Who from 1979 to 1986 and High Septon Maynard in Game of Thrones, he appeared in around 120 film and television productions, including Casino Royale, Peep Show, Rebecca and The Bill. Fans and colleagues have paid tribute to his memorable performances and warm personality.

Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey is praised for its ambition, striking filmmaking and modern examination of war, but criticized for sacrificing the source poem’s humor, fantasy and Odysseus’s defining cunning. The article particularly objects to the rewritten Cyclops episode, arguing that its weaker deception and unclear exposition undermine the character and the story’s central themes. Emily Wilson’s broader critique is considered largely convincing, though Nolan’s bold reinterpretation is ultimately seen as worthwhile rather than a failure.

The writer reviews the Australian remake of BBC's Ghosts after watching the original UK series and the US adaptation. Although the Australian version takes longer to become engaging and does not match the UK original, its distinctive ghosts, absurd storylines and Michelle Brasier's performance as Lindy eventually win the writer over. The review concludes that the remake is worth watching and argues that the show's premise could support further international adaptations shaped by each country's history and culture.

Tom Holland says promoting films he genuinely admires is easy, but recalls privately thinking audiences should not see some weaker projects he had been required to promote. He describes his current campaigns for The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day as a celebratory “victory lap,” while the article cites the poor critical reception of Cherry, Uncharted and Dolittle. Holland also discusses vomiting during Hot Ones and preparing to play Fred Astaire in an upcoming biopic, aiming to perform the dancing himself without doubles.

Text messages presented at a preliminary hearing allegedly show that Celeste Rivas Hernandez became pregnant by musician David Anthony Burke, known as D4vd, and underwent an abortion in 2024. Burke, who has pleaded not guilty, is accused of murdering and sexually abusing the 14-year-old; prosecutors claim he killed her after she threatened to expose the alleged abuse. The hearing has also included evidence of child sexual abuse images, photographs of Hernandez during alleged abuse, graphic images of her dismembered remains, and alleged online purchases of equipment associated with disposing of a body. Burke faces charges including first-degree murder, sexual offenses involving a child, witness murder and mutilation of a human body, with prosecutors seeking to proceed to trial.

Natalie Bassingthwaighte has spoken about becoming pregnant at 19 during an affair with a married man 30 years her senior. She described feeling deceitful, being confronted by his wife and eventually realizing through therapy that the older man had taken advantage of her; she later suffered a miscarriage. Bassingthwaighte is now engaged to Pip Loth and is focusing on her theatre career after the Australian tour of Waitress was cancelled.

Christopher “Chris” Affleck, the mother of Ben and Casey Affleck, died peacefully in her sleep on June 2 at age 83, six months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Her final wish was to see a grandson graduate from high school, which she achieved by attending the ceremony with her family on May 31. A Harvard graduate, public-school teacher, activist and grandmother of five, she also helped launch Ben Affleck’s acting career and completed an oral-history project shortly before her death.

Taylor Ryan says Gladiators star Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, ended their relationship because of her work as an OnlyFans creator. She described the breakup as painful and said she had been blindsided, while Bigg has not publicly responded to her latest claims. The couple had previously presented a united front after Bigg was removed from the BBC reboot, and he had defended Ryan by saying OnlyFans was only a small part of her identity. Tom Stoltman has since replaced him on the show.

Sophie Price condemned allegations that Lee Andrews discussed selling an explicit video supposedly involving him and Katie Price. Katie denied making a sex tape with Andrews and said she would question him about numerous issues when he leaves prison. The article recaps allegations concerning Andrews's finances, debts, imprisonment in Dubai, claims of scams against women, a disputed kidnapping story and misleading publicity about a pregnancy. Katie's family reportedly remains deeply concerned about the relationship and fears Andrews may be exploiting her.

Paddy Doherty criticises Mark Wright and expresses a desire to fight him in a boxing match, describing Wright as arrogant based on a past encounter at the 2011 Bafta awards. Doherty claims he would knock Wright out despite their age difference. Wright has not responded publicly and is focused on life with his newborn daughter. The article also notes Doherty’s interest in facing Calum Best in a friendlier match.

Adeel Akhtar reflects on his journey as a British South Asian actor, describing the challenges of racial identity, early career stereotyping and the pressure to conform to industry expectations. Exploring his family history in a new episode of Who Do You Think You Are, he retraces his mother’s migration from Kenya to the UK at 16 and uncovers the hardships and resilience of previous generations across India and East Africa. He speaks with admiration for his mother’s sacrifices, acknowledges the impact of immigration on his life and hopes his work encourages others to share their own stories while continuing to embrace roles that offer creative freedom.

Jane Felstead, mother of Made in Chelsea star Binky Felstead, shared a video from a hospital following a fall that left her with severe bruising. Despite the injuries, she reassured viewers she was recovering and remained upbeat. Fans expressed strong support, while Felstead discussed her ongoing experience with Multiple Sclerosis and her advocacy work with the MS Society. The NHS description of MS and its symptoms was referenced for context.

Former Gladiators star Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, responds positively to news that World’s Strongest Man Tom Stoltman will replace him on the BBC show, praising Stoltman and publicly offering support. Bigg previously expressed frustration at being dropped after his then-girlfriend’s OnlyFans account surfaced, prompting backlash from fans. Despite his exit, he hints at new TV projects in development.

Jade Thirlwall and Jordan Stephens have reportedly ended their six‑year relationship after discussing their future, though they remain amicable. They have not appeared together publicly for months and did not acknowledge their anniversary online. Both are focusing on work, with Thirlwall pursuing her solo career and Stephens continuing projects including the Miss Me? podcast. Their representatives have not commented.

Kris Jenner announced the death of her mother Mary Jo Shannon at age 91, sharing a tribute expressing gratitude for her influence, values and lifelong support. Shannon, a familiar presence on the family’s reality shows, had faced health and mobility challenges following her daughter’s death. Fans and friends offered condolences as tributes circulated online.

Speculation grows around the potential 2026 lineup for I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, with reported talks involving Joanna Page, Su-Elise Nash, Nadiya Bychkova and Christopher Dean. Each celebrity is said to be in varying stages of discussion with ITV, driven by renewed career developments, anniversaries or newly open schedules. Producers aim to build on the momentum of recent seasons, with the show expected to return in November and last year’s winner, Angry Ginge, referenced as the reigning champion.

Lewis Capaldi’s return to the stage at BST Hyde Park delivered an emotional, vocally powerful performance marked by humour, gratitude and several tearful moments. Supported by an intensely loyal crowd of 65,000, he moved between upbeat openers and a run of ballads showcasing his live vocals. A surprise duet with Sam Fender added energy before the night shifted toward a deeply emotional climax as the crowd’s chants overwhelmed him during The Day I Die. He closed with Someone You Loved and teased a new album, leaving the audience with a sense of warmth and mutual affection.

Ariana Grande has withdrawn from the upcoming thirteenth season of American Horror Story due to scheduling conflicts with her Eternal Sunshine tour, prompting disappointment among fans, some of whom threatened to boycott the season. Production continues with the series set to premiere on September 24, featuring returning cast members including Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters and Jessica Lange. Grande is now focusing on her tour and an upcoming film role in Focker-In-Law, while FX has not released further details on the new season’s storyline or characters.

Despite critical acclaim, awards recognition, and strong viewing figures, the Apple TV Plus sci‑fi series Pluribus has failed to gain widespread cultural traction. The article argues that Rhea Seehorn’s lead performance and the show’s slow‑burn world‑building deserve far more public attention, contrasting its muted reception with the mainstream impact of series like Severance and other Emmy contenders. Viewers are encouraged to give the show a chance before season two arrives.

Netflix’s new adaptation of Little House on the Prairie attempts to modernize the story by expanding the perspective of the Osage people, offering a more respectful and nuanced portrayal than previous versions. Strong performances and a compelling Osage-focused storyline contrast sharply with the difficulties of reconciling the sympathetic portrayal of the Ingalls family with the historical reality of settler colonialism. The show’s tonal inconsistencies and its struggle to balance representation with fidelity to the source material undermine its impact, raising questions about whether a remake centered on the Ingalls was the right vehicle for this narrative.

A reviewer skeptical of reboots praises Amazon’s Legally Blonde prequel series Elle for its strong lead performance by Lexi Minetree, engaging storyline, and meaningful LGBTQ+ representation. Despite concerns about the 1990s setting, character redundancy, and Seattle’s portrayal, the series is commended for offering a fresh take on Elle Woods’ early life. With season two already renewed, the reviewer hopes the show gains more support after a cliffhanger ending.

Martin Freeman reflects on The Office’s 25th anniversary by challenging long-standing claims from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant that the series included no improvisation, noting that some cast contributions were omitted from published scripts. He and Mackenzie Crook reunite for a retrospective special, while Gervais plans his own anniversary content tied to upcoming projects.

Season five of the series Trying returns to a stronger emotional and comedic balance after a rocky previous season, focusing on tensions created by the reappearance of the children’s biological mother and the evolving dynamics within the family. Subplots follow Nikki’s workplace complications, Jason’s return to education, and the continued eccentricity of supporting characters. Despite occasional weak humour and character frustrations, the season is described as warm, engaging and binge‑worthy, offering a satisfying continuation of the show’s themes of family and connection.

Rumoured contestants for the 2026 edition of I’m A Celebrity include Su‑Elise Nash following Mis‑Teeq’s reunion, former Strictly dancer Nadiya Bychkova after her departure from the BBC series, and Olympic figure skating champion Christopher Dean, who is reportedly in discussions with producers. The series is expected to return in November, with last year’s winner Angry Ginge highlighted alongside other recent show developments.

Rafe Spall and Esther Smith reflect on the impact of their Apple TV series Trying as it returns for a fifth season, noting that viewers frequently approach them to share how the show’s themes of infertility, adoption and nontraditional families resonate personally. The new season introduces heightened emotional stakes with the return of Princess and Tyler’s biological mother and explores fresh tensions, including a possible workplace crush. Both actors describe how their real-life relationship and parenthood influence their performances, while praising the long-running show’s creative backing and continued focus on complex family dynamics.

Kay Burley faced heavy criticism after defending Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as a “war hero” during a BBC Newsnight discussion focused on sexual abuse allegations and survivor testimony. Her remark drew visible disbelief from fellow guests and widespread backlash online, especially given the context of the segment, which urged other potential victims of Andrew, Jeffrey Epstein, or Ghislaine Maxwell to come forward following renewed scrutiny linked to the release of Epstein-related documents. Andrew, who has denied wrongdoing, was recently arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office before being released under investigation.

A strongly positive review recommends the ITV series The Durrells as an ideal summer comfort watch, praising its cast, humour, scenic Corfu setting and light dramatic stakes while noting its availability on Disney Plus.

Victoria and David Beckham marked their 27th wedding anniversary by sharing affectionate posts highlighting their four children despite an ongoing rift with their eldest son, Brooklyn. Brooklyn, who has distanced himself from the family and avoids being tagged in posts, was still included in their celebrations, reportedly causing further tension. The article notes his continued absence from major family events and his alignment with the Peltz family, while friends and celebrities publicly congratulated the couple on their milestone.

Jimmy Fallon faces ongoing backlash for a friendly interview with Conor McGregor, who was found liable in a civil rape case. PR expert Laura Perkes says Fallon’s silence is intentional, reflecting a strategy to let the controversy fade. Critics argue the platforming of McGregor normalises violence against women, but Perkes suggests the fallout is unlikely to harm Fallon’s career and may even increase attention to his show.