Daniel Bird

Jennifer Finch, bassist for L7, has withdrawn from the band’s upcoming farewell tour after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Following multiple surgeries and complications, she now requires extensive medical and in‑home support. Her bandmates announced the news and launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover care and rehabilitation expenses while continuing the tour at her request. Loved ones emphasised her significant health limitations and urged supporters to contribute or share the campaign to help ensure she receives adequate care and to preserve her creative legacy.

Lauren Bennett, singer with GRL and collaborator with LMFAO and the Pussycat Dolls, has died at 37, prompting tributes from former bandmates and fellow artists. Her career included early success with The Paradiso Girls, solo work, and major chart hits such as Party Rock Anthem and Ugly Heart. GRL members honored her memory and highlighted her impact, noting the group’s mental health advocacy following the death of Simone Battle. Bennett later relaunched her solo career and maintained a largely private personal life. She is survived by her daughter and partner.

Holly Willoughby is preparing a return to television, having reportedly completed rehearsals for a new lifestyle series titled Together, produced by Hungry Bear Media. The project follows a quiet period since her departure from ITV’s This Morning in 2023 and limited appearances thereafter. Recent trademark filings under the Together brand and a social media post hinting at a professional reunion further suggest an upcoming comeback. Financial records show growing assets but significant liabilities for her lifestyle brand Wylde Moon. Wales Online has requested comment from her representatives.

US singer Oliver Tree was killed along with five others when two helicopters collided above an electric vehicle depot in Rio de Janeiro. Authorities are investigating the cause as one aircraft crashed into a car dealership and a fire was extinguished. Tributes were shared by collaborators including KSI and Oliver Heldens. Tree had been touring South America and was scheduled for shows worldwide. His career included early collaborations with major artists, a period studying music technology, and later international success with the hit Miss You.

Actor Anthony Head died at 72 from complications related to pneumonia, according to a statement from daughters Emily and Daisy Head. They paid tribute to his decades‑long career, highlighting his roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ted Lasso, Little Britain and Merlin. His death follows that of his partner, Sarah Fisher, who died earlier in the year. His family emphasised the enduring legacy of his work and the affection of fans, colleagues and friends.

Professor Green received widespread support after an emotional discussion on Celebs Go Dating about his breakup with Karima McAdams and the challenges of co-parenting while managing his mental health. He described discomfort with intimacy, fears shaped by his father’s absence, and the pressures men face in expressing emotions. Viewers praised his honesty as he spoke about prioritising his child’s wellbeing and his struggles with mental health, which have improved since moving out of London and spending more time outdoors. The rapper also reflected on receiving late diagnoses of autism and ADHD, highlighting the difficulty of navigating adulthood without understanding his neurodivergence.

Adam Peaty will compete at the Commonwealth Games under the new name Adam Ramsay-Peaty following his marriage to Holly Ramsay. The name change comes amid an ongoing family rift that has strained his relationship with most relatives except his sister Bethany. Tensions reportedly escalated after his wedding and allegations of conflict involving members of both families. As the most senior swimmer on Team England, Peaty aims to secure a historic fourth consecutive Commonwealth gold while reflecting on his recovery from injuries and mental health struggles after the Paris Olympics.

Dame Esther Rantzen urges action on the Assisted Dying Bill as it faces expiration amid delays in the House of Lords, arguing for compassionate choice for terminally ill adults. Supporters, including her daughter Rebecca Wilcox and MP Kim Leadbeater, criticise peers for blocking progress despite Commons approval. Campaigners rally in large numbers, and Dignity in Dying emphasises continued public backing and determination to see the legislation revived in the next parliamentary session.

Beverley Callard withdrew from the live final of I'm A Celebrity on medical advice following recent breast cancer surgery. The actress, who experienced symptoms during filming that preceded her diagnosis, said she was disappointed but focusing on recovery. She shared that her operation was successful, though the cancer had spread to a lymph node, with further analysis ongoing. The final will proceed without her attendance, with plans for her to join via video call.

BBC executives have shortlisted nine candidates to replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly as hosts of Strictly Come Dancing, with contenders undergoing auditions and chemistry tests in London involving full show rehearsals. Producers Sarah James and Kalpna Patel-Knight are overseeing the process, with incoming director general Matt Brittin receiving updates. Potential presenters include Rylan Clark, Emma Willis, La Voix, Zoe Ball, Tom Allen, Angela Scanlon and Alex Jones, while Graham Norton, Amanda Holden and Alison Hammond have withdrawn from consideration. A BBC spokesperson said plans for the 2026 series will be confirmed later.

Angela Pleasence, known for roles in Coronation Street, Casualty and Doctor Who, has died at 84. Her agency praised her five-decade career spanning theatre, film and television, highlighting her work in British horror and major stage productions. Tributes from fans and friends celebrated her talent and legacy. Her final screen appearances included the 2011 film Your Highness and the series Happy Valley in 2016.

Peter Rowell, a former BBC Radio Bristol presenter previously jailed for multiple sexual offences against minors, received a new 29‑week prison sentence for breaching sex‑offender notification requirements. He admitted failing to inform police of extended stays at two addresses, including one where he spent more than 12 hours at a property with a child under 18. The breaches occurred over a decade after his original conviction for indecent assaults and possession of indecent images. Background details of his earlier offences and the judge’s remarks from his 2012 sentencing were also recounted.

Duffy has changed her legal name to Duffy Jones as she prepares a major comeback supported by a new Disney+ documentary exploring her rise to fame, withdrawal from public life and the kidnapping and rape ordeal she revealed in 2020. Official records show the name change was filed in 2013, and she is now represented by TaP Management. The documentary will provide new access to the singer and include interviews and archival material, though a release date has not yet been set.

Josie Gibson is reportedly in advanced discussions to join the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing amid a significant shake-up involving changes to presenters and professional dancers. Producers are said to view her upbeat and relatable personality as ideal for refreshing the show following past controversies. Gibson previously considered Strictly in 2023 but ultimately appeared on I'm A Celeb. The article also highlights her career rise, personal life openness and desire to remain based in the West Country while continuing her work on This Morning.

The BBC’s decision to drop live coverage of the Commonwealth Day service for regular programming prompted sharp criticism from royal commentators, who argued the ceremony holds significant cultural importance. The broadcaster cited funding pressures and said the event would still receive news coverage across its platforms. Senior royals, performers and Commonwealth representatives are expected to attend the service, which will feature artistic presentations and a message from King Charles. The article also notes recent public engagements by the Prince and Princess of Wales in Wales.

Brian Herman, known from Real Housewives of Orange County, has died at 63 following a battle with brain cancer. His wife, Deborah Windham, announced the news in an emotional message describing his strength and compassion during his illness. Tributes from friends and followers quickly followed, praising his character and impact. Herman appeared on the reality series with his wife and daughter between 2019 and 2021.

ITV released a teaser for the upcoming spring return of I'm A Celeb South Africa during Britain's Got Talent, featuring presenters Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly reacting to wildlife sounds. Another preview is scheduled for release next week. The series will bring back former contestants, with speculation surrounding possible returning celebrities including Gemma Collins, Scarlett Moffatt and several others. The first South African edition in 2023 drew over five million viewers, and anticipation is building for the new all‑star season.

James Van Der Beek, best known for playing Dawson Leery in Dawson’s Creek, has died at 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer. His wife, Kimberly, announced his passing and detailed the family’s emotional and financial struggles, prompting the creation of a GoFundMe page to support expenses. Diagnosed in 2023, Van Der Beek publicly shared his cancer journey and promoted screening awareness. Tributes from colleagues and friends highlighted his kindness and influence. He is survived by his wife and six children.

Stephen Libby became emotional after fans noticed his mistaken use of a common phrase on The Traitors, prompting him to address the moment in an Instagram video. Contest dynamics intensified as Stephen and fellow Traitor Rachel weighed their next target while facing rising suspicion from other players. Recent episodes also saw Sam voted out following behaviour that unsettled the group and Adam eliminated by the Traitors, with tensions increasing as remaining contestants strategised their next moves.

Kate Garraway described cracking her front tooth caps after hitting a taxi window and struggling to secure them before going live on Good Morning Britain, later receiving temporary replacements she joked were oversized. Colleagues and fans responded supportively on social media. She also addressed recent mistaken claims that she had a new partner, explaining that an AI-generated image had caused false rumours and warning about the risks of misinformation online.

Caroline Hirons announced her separation from her husband after more than 30 years of marriage, clarifying through Instagram that they are not divorcing soon and will not reunite. She stated they maintain necessary communication for their family and declined to share personal details. The update follows their 30th anniversary celebration two years earlier, and Hirons noted she is comfortable discussing the situation publicly.

Joel Dommett says he and his wife Hannah Cooper feel both excited and “petrified” as they prepare for the arrival of their second child. The Masked Singer host, already a father to two‑year‑old Wilde, speaks about the challenges of expanding their family, the value of communication in his relationship and the shared enthusiasm among the team behind the ITV series, which continues to enjoy strong popularity.

Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Dr Punam Krishan revealed she was diagnosed with breast cancer, describing the experience as emotionally and physically difficult. She credited the NHS teams involved in her treatment and said she kept the diagnosis private to protect her family while undergoing care. Now recovering after completing treatment, she chose to speak publicly to encourage early detection and self-awareness. Support from fellow Strictly personalities and medical colleagues followed, highlighting her message about health awareness and resilience.

Viewers noted apparent tension between Strictly Come Dancing professionals Nancy Xu and Carlos Gu during the 2025 final, with social media users highlighting Nancy’s reactions as Karen Carney and Carlos celebrated their win. Reports referenced a past fallout between the pair, fuelled by unfollowing each other on social media and backstage avoidance. Nancy later congratulated the winners on Instagram but did not tag Carlos, prompting further speculation about their relationship despite their long-standing friendship.

Semi‑final results for Strictly Come Dancing leaked online, sparking anger among viewers who felt the public vote eliminated the wrong contestant. Karen Carney and Carlos Gu topped the leaderboard, followed closely by Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin, with Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon landing in the bottom two. Performances ranged from emotional waltzes to high‑energy sambas, while tension increased as presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman neared their final series. Strictly’s finale is set to be closely contested.