Lauren Del Fabbro

The Natural History Museum in London will reopen its Nature and Us gallery on September 16, 2026, for an initial 18-month run. Closed to the public since 1943 after the museum’s herbarium was damaged during the Second World War, the gallery will display 50 objects exploring changing relationships between people and the natural world. Highlights include a Crystal Palace dinosaur model, a Victorian monk seal skeleton, a bryozoan-covered Star Wars toy, a 400,000-year-old hand axe and a replica jaw from an early domesticated dog. The reopening forms part of the NHM150 transformation project, with visitor feedback helping shape a permanent gallery planned for 2029.

The European Broadcasting Union has changed the Eurovision rules for 2027 so the winning broadcaster will be ineligible to host if its state is involved in an armed conflict, a sensitive geopolitical situation, or another circumstance that threatens security and stability. An independent security body will assess the host's suitability, with the EBU able to appoint an alternative broadcaster if necessary. The changes follow disputes over Israel's participation and the 2023 contest being held in the UK on Ukraine's behalf. Other revisions raise the minimum artist age from 16 to 18 and require lead singers to perform the main melody live. Bulgaria will host Eurovision 2027 after Dara won the 2026 contest in Vienna.

Northern Irish comedian Jimmy Cricket has died aged 80 after a short illness. His family said he spent his final days surrounded by loved ones and praised his decades-long career on stage, television and radio, as well as his devotion to his wife, children and grandchildren. Cricket had previously announced a health-related break and treatment but had hoped to return to performing in autumn 2026.

Birmingham and the wider West Midlands have been named the UK’s eighth official production hub by the British Film Commission, meeting criteria for studio infrastructure, skilled crews and experience hosting major scripted productions. The success of Peaky Blinders, including the film Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, helped establish the region’s credentials. Creator Steven Knight welcomed the designation and highlighted his Digbeth Loc Studios venture, while regional mayor Richard Parker and BFC chief executive Adrian Wootton said the status would strengthen confidence, skills, infrastructure and investment in the area’s creative economy.

Tom Hiddleston discusses his new National Geographic documentary series exploring the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the lives of Pompeii’s residents. At the British Museum premiere, he emphasises his lifelong passion for the classics and hopes the series honours the humanity of the ancient city’s people. The three‑part project blends investigative storytelling with dramatic sequences and features collaborations with historians and scientific experts. The series will be released on Disney+ and National Geographic on July 23.

Adrian Dunbar received the Freedom of the City of London in recognition of his contributions to drama and support for emerging talent, marking what he described as a meaningful full‑circle moment tied to his time at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He reflected on the city’s history and significance and expressed excitement about the upcoming seventh series of Line Of Duty, praising Jed Mercurio’s writing and Robert Carlyle’s guest role. Guildhall representatives highlighted Dunbar’s achievements and long-standing support for the institution, while the actor acknowledged the honour and those who nominated him.

Ellie Goulding will perform at the England versus Norway World Cup quarter-final, expressing support for the national team while promoting her recent music releases and personal milestones. The match precedes the tournament’s first full-scale halftime show, featuring major global artists including Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber and others, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin.

Sara Cox began hosting BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast show, launching her first programme with music from Lizzo and acknowledging England’s World Cup win. She engaged listeners with messages, shared an anecdote about her husband’s attempt to avoid match spoilers, and thanked Gary Davies for covering the slot after Scott Mills was removed amid a police investigation. Cox, previously the station’s teatime host, now permanently anchors the weekday breakfast programme, with listeners able to tune in via BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.

Dwayne Johnson highlighted the power of empathy in the upcoming live-action Moana, praising a pivotal scene in which characters confront danger with understanding rather than aggression. Cast members, including Laga’aia, reflected on the legacy of the original film and the inspiration drawn from Auliʻi Cravalho. Director Thomas Kail emphasized the film’s celebration of Polynesian culture and its themes of ancestral connection and courage. The live‑action adaptation will be released on July 10.