Michelle Marshall

Houston-based gospel singer Nikki Ross Bellamy has died aged 54. She had recently stopped touring while addressing health issues, including symptoms of temporary blindness, but no cause of death was provided. New Jerusalem Cathedral announced her death on August 14, praising her extraordinary voice, ministry and enduring impact. Harry Connick Jr., who performed with Ross on “Love Wins,” and fans shared emotional tributes.

British film editor and soundman Ian Crafford has died at 82 at his home after battling cancer. His credits included sound effects work on Monty Python and the Holy Grail and editing work on Field of Dreams, Hope and Glory, The Emerald Forest, Never Say Never Again and numerous other films. Crafford received a BAFTA nomination for Hope and Glory, later moved to the United States, and eventually settled in Brazil. He is survived by his wife Antonia and children Scott, Roberta, Monyka and Paul.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt is leaving her role at the end of the month to spend more time with her two young children after returning from maternity leave. Donald Trump praised her performance and said she would remain an outside adviser and influential voice within the Republican Party. Leavitt described the decision as bittersweet, saying the demands of the job prevented her from being the mother she wanted to be. Her departure comes as Trump faces the midterm elections, the Iran war and high gas prices, and no replacement has yet been announced.

Sydnie Christmas, the 2024 Britain's Got Talent winner, performed “Tomorrow” from Annie and Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at David Foster’s charity gala in Canada. Afterward, Harry reportedly praised the emotional impact of her performance, hugged her despite royal protocol, and told her he felt every word. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex attended the event supporting David Foster Foundation’s 40th anniversary of fundraising.

James and Ola Jordan have announced that they are taking time apart after 26 years of marriage and are living separately. Their joint statement cites difficult personal challenges and James’s prolonged struggles with mental health. Reports attribute the deterioration of their relationship partly to James’s grief following the 2021 death of his father, Allan, from a stage-four brain tumour.

Video of Donald Trump descending Air Force One stairs while repeatedly slapping his leg prompted social media speculation that he was experiencing numbness or difficulty walking. The concerns followed photographs showing bruising on his forearm at the LIV Golf New York tournament at Trump National Bedminster. Trump and the White House have denied broader health problems, while Trump has attributed marks on his hand to daily aspirin use and cited chronic venous insufficiency diagnosed in 2025. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle described Trump as highly energetic and accessible.

Stockard Channing, best known for playing Rizzo in Grease, has described herself as a “happy recluse” living in London. She moved from Maine in 2019, after the 2014 death of her longtime partner Daniel Gillham, saying the loss had a delayed and increasingly profound impact on her life. Channing also discussed her four previous marriages, her decision not to have children, and her contentment with living alone, while noting that she continues to be recognized for roles in Grease and The Good Wife.

Tommy Cooper died from a heart attack after collapsing during a live ITV broadcast in London on April 15, 1984, while the audience initially believed the incident was part of his act. Thirty-five years later, comedian Ian Cognito, whose real name was Paul Barbieri, died during a performance at The Atic bar in Bicester after suffering an aortic dissection. Audience members and compere Andrew Bird initially thought Cognito was joking, despite his heavy breathing and silence on stage. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Hayley Tamaddon, known for roles in Emmerdale and Coronation Street, paid tribute to her late mentor Phil Winston after attending his funeral. She credited Winston with shaping her career, teaching her discipline and professionalism, and introducing her to lasting friendships. Winston, a longtime choreographer and member of the International Dance Teachers Association, was remembered by Tamaddon and former students as an influential teacher who changed many performers’ lives.

John Douglas, guitarist and singer of the Scottish indie rock band Trashcan Sinatras, has died aged 63 following a brief illness. His bandmates said he died peacefully on August 3, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Douglas joined the band in 1986 and performed on all seven of its studio albums, including Cake and I've Seen Everything, before releasing a solo album in 2024. The band had released its first full-length album in a decade, Ever The Optimist, just four days before his death. Fans and fellow musicians paid tribute to his voice, songwriting, kindness and lasting contribution to the band's music.

Celebrity blogger Perez Hilton was hospitalized in Miami after authorities received multiple 911 calls about an alleged TikTok livestream showing him self-harming. Miami-Dade deputies found him alone, determined he was not a threat to others, used de-escalation techniques, and took him to a local hospital for treatment. His managers said they were unable to contact him, expressed concern for his wellbeing and that of his family, and asked that his privacy be respected.

The 2001 TNT miniseries Mists of Avalon, adapted from Marion Zimmer Bradley’s novel and directed by Uli Edel, retells the Arthurian legend through the perspectives of its women. Although the historical fantasy drama has a middling 50% Rotten Tomatoes score and is currently unavailable to stream, viewers on Reddit continue to praise its colorful medieval aesthetic, production quality and faithfulness to the beloved book.

This Morning presenter Cat Deeley shared photos and a video of herself mowing her lawn in a black bikini during the UK heatwave. The Instagram post, captioned “British Summertime,” prompted enthusiastic reactions from fans and celebrity friends. The coverage also references Deeley’s reported split from Patrick Kielty after 12 years of marriage and their intention to remain united as parents.

Relationship therapist and television presenter Anna Williamson has returned with a second series of The Affair podcast, which explores infidelity without judgment and examines its causes and consequences. She describes affairs as a subject of professional fascination and recalls a particularly shocking case involving a woman whose husband had an affair with her pregnant maid of honour and childhood best friend. Williamson says open, mature conversations can help reduce the shame and stigma surrounding betrayal. A new weekly follow-up strand, What Happened Next?, features previous guests updating listeners on their lives.

Dame Penelope Keith's funeral took place at Guildford Cathedral after hundreds of people lined the streets of Milford, Surrey, to pay tribute to the beloved actress. Friends, fellow actors and former Prime Minister John Major attended, while Gyles Brandreth described the service as filled with laughter and tears. Keith, best known for The Good Life and To the Manor Born, died peacefully at her Surrey home on 29 June after living with cancer.

Actress and singer E.J. Peaker, best known for playing Minnie Fay in Hello, Dolly! and appearing in That’s Life, died at her Las Vegas home on May 16 at age 82 after battling Alzheimer’s disease. Her husband, Scott Rosen, confirmed her death. Peaker’s career spanned film, television, theater, game shows, and telethons, with credits including Charlie’s Angels, The Rockford Files, Wonder Woman, and The Greatest American Hero. She later advocated for homeless people in Encino, California, and is survived by her son and siblings. A memorial is planned in Pueblo on August 22.

Meghan Markle appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia after filming an episode in Melbourne during a tour of Australia with Prince Harry. Harry unexpectedly joined the episode via a phone call, prompting Meghan to greet him affectionately and display what body-language expert Inbaal Honigman interpreted as pride, gratitude and playful flirtation. The appearance follows Meghan's cookery and lifestyle series With Love, Meghan receiving a Daytime Emmy nomination.

Lorraine Kelly discussed the song she would like played at her funeral, saying she hopes to live to 102 and believes people continue through those who love them. Her comments came months after the death of her father, John Kelly, whom she remembered fondly. The piece also notes that her ITV programme has gone on a temporary break after budget cuts reduced its airtime and moved it to a seasonal schedule.

Meghan Markle appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia while Andy Allen was on paternity leave. She asked host Poh Ling Yeow to call her Meghan rather than Duchess, prompting some viewers to mock her perceived rejection of royal titles while others praised her appearance and urged her to return. The moment was linked to earlier reports that Meghan’s team objected to her being described as “royal” during her Australian tour.

Contestants who appeared on BBC Two’s Only Connect responded to a Reddit question about Victoria Coren Mitchell’s off-camera personality. They described her as kind, welcoming, funny, helpful and courteous in the studio and during poker games. Coren Mitchell has presented the quiz show since 2008, with its twenty-second series airing in the UK and available on BBC iPlayer.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly visited the UK with their children, including a private trip to Althorp, Princess Diana’s childhood home and burial place. Royal commentator Angela Levin claimed the visit was primarily intended to create publicity for a planned series about Diana’s death and urged the Sussexes to stop returning to Britain. The trip followed a reported private reunion with King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House, which Buckingham Palace said had been kept confidential.

Filmmaker Chuck Russell, director of The Mask, A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, The Blob and The Scorpion King, has died unexpectedly at 74 at his property in San Diego. His death was confirmed by his attorney to Variety, while the cause remains unconfirmed. Russell began his career in independent film before achieving major success with The Mask, which grossed more than $350 million on an $18 million budget. He is survived by his wife Ania and three children.

Former BBC presenter Andrew Neil cited an unnamed close confidant who allegedly believes Donald Trump's physical and mental health is deteriorating. The White House rejected the claim, with physician Sean Barbarella describing Trump as being in strong overall health. The report also covers Trump's appearance at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where he attacked journalists, criticized CNN's Kaitlan Collins, warned that media businesses would struggle without him, and floated a fourth presidential term while wearing a Trump 2028 hat.

Reality TV personality Jeana Keough is experiencing severe malnutrition after a tongue cancer diagnosis left her unable to swallow adequately. Her daughter Kara Bosworth reported that treatment was paused after doctors discovered a blood clot and an infection, delaying a scheduled feeding tube. The family is awaiting clearance to resume chemotherapy and radiation while monitoring the infection and preparing for surgery. Keough’s cancer was identified as squamous cell carcinoma that has spread beyond the initial site.

Meghan Markle’s Emmy nomination highlights her growing success in Hollywood while exposing the challenges Prince Harry faces in shaping his identity beyond the Royal Family. As Meghan gains traction as a lifestyle figure, Harry’s projects remain niche and tied to his royal background, raising questions about whether quitting royal duties left him without a clear role in the entertainment industry. The contrast underscores his difficulty maintaining relevance in a market driven by visibility and commercial appeal.

Oprah Winfrey’s recent reflections on her high‑profile interview with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have revived public attention to their 2021 tell‑all, just as the Sussexes attempt to reconcile with the Royal Family. Winfrey explained her reasoning behind the widely quoted “silent or silenced” question and noted the interview had been delayed multiple times and lasted over three hours. The resurfaced clip has prompted renewed debate on social media, raising concerns that old tensions may reemerge as Harry works to repair family relations following the couple’s departure from the UK.

Commentators on TalkTV criticised Prince Harry and Meghan Markle amid reports suggesting they may seek to spend more time in the UK after unsuccessful attempts to build their careers in the United States. Jeremy Kyle and royal expert Kinsey Schofield questioned the couple’s motives, suggesting their Hollywood ambitions have faltered and that Harry may be attempting to return to Britain under the guise of reconnecting with family. Despite the criticism, Meghan received favourable news with an Emmy nomination for her Netflix series.

David J.C. Austin, chairman of David Austin Roses and a long-time contributor to BBC Gardeners' World, has died at age 67 following a diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Monty Don and Austin’s family paid tribute to his legacy as a leading rose grower who expanded the family business and maintained its vision with humility. His children remembered him for his kindness, dedication and courage throughout his illness.

Prince Harry appeared on James Corden’s show After Hours, where he addressed Rio Ferdinand’s earlier ranking that placed him last among prominent British figures named Harry. During the episode, Harry confronted Ferdinand about revising his list after learning the prince would appear. Harry ultimately ranked Harry Styles first, Harry Kane second, and placed himself tied with the fictional Harry Potter for third, adding a lighthearted joke about settling it with a Quidditch match.

A reader poll of 1,562 votes shows Clarkson's Farm dominating as the most popular farming programme on British television, winning 1,428 votes. Fletchers' Family Farm ranked second, while Countryfile placed third with only 52 votes, marking a setback for the BBC. Our Farm Next Door finished fourth. The article outlines the premises and broadcast history of each show, noting strong audience support for the programmes featuring Jeremy Clarkson and Kelvin Fletcher.

Ruthie Henshall reveals that her demanding career and Prince Edward’s royal obligations made their five‑year relationship unsustainable, leaving her feeling sidelined and emotionally strained. Their romance became more difficult after public exposure, and the pair ultimately separated despite efforts to continue the relationship. They remained friends, and Henshall later attended Edward’s wedding to Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

Prince Harry’s appearance on Joe Marler’s podcast drew harsh criticism from TalkTV host Kevin O’Sullivan, who mocked the duke for struggling to define his job or identity. Commentator Kinsey Schofield agreed, arguing that Harry remains tied to his royal status despite distancing himself from the monarchy and questioning why he omitted his role as founder of the Invictus Games. The discussion suggested Harry may be unhappy living in Meghan Markle’s world, raising concerns for the duchess amid reports that he misses the UK. Meghan recently returned to Britain privately with their children for a discreet reunion with King Charles during a tense period for the couple.

Piers Morgan condemned Argentina’s football team after players displayed a banner asserting Argentine sovereignty over the Falkland Islands following their World Cup semi-final win against England. FIFA is reviewing match reports to determine whether disciplinary action is warranted. The incident revived longstanding tensions surrounding the Falklands, with the islands’ government expressing disappointment and urging FIFA to sanction political displays. Social media users were sharply divided, some criticising Morgan’s remarks while others supported his stance.

Viewers of The Chase Around the World shared widespread complaints shortly after the premiere, expressing that the new format lacked the appeal and pace of the original series, with many citing long gaps between questions and excessive focus on contestants running through Rome. Some viewers, however, praised the show for being fresh, fun and tense. The programme features contestants racing through Rome before facing chasers Mark Labbett and Anne Hegerty, with Bradley Walsh hosting.

Police arrested an Aberdeen University employee over online comments made about the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe. The post preceded confirmation that police had launched a murder investigation. Police Scotland initially reported no criminality but later charged a 50-year-old individual. Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson, was found dead with serious injuries in her Devon home. A 28-year-old man from Rotherham was first arrested on suspicion of murder and later re-arrested on suspicion of terrorism-related offences.

Journalist Bryony Gordon recounted emotional conversations with Meghan Markle, describing how the duchess confided in her about years of online bullying and public scrutiny. Gordon said Meghan appeared vastly different from the negative image portrayed on social media and shared Meghan’s remark that she was not “deluded” about public opinion but wished for basic politeness. The discussion resurfaced after Meghan and Prince Harry’s visit to Australia, where they supported efforts addressing harms of social media for young people.

A BBC World Cup commentator sharply criticised mandatory hydration breaks during the England–Argentina semi-final, calling them unnecessary and claiming they serve to accommodate American television advertising. His comments echoed frustration among fans, who were already angered by Argentina supporters booing the England national anthem. Online reactions condemned the behaviour of some Argentine fans, while pre-match footage of a burning Union Jack heightened tensions around the game.

The BBC faced criticism from viewers after its main presentation team appeared in Atlanta for the England–Argentina World Cup semi-final despite having broadcast the tournament from Salford until then. Fans complained about the timing and perceived waste of licence fee money, while some praised the move compared with ITV’s on‑site coverage from the start of the tournament.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited King Charles at Highgrove House with their children, marking their first reunion since 2022. Commentators described the meeting as tense, with claims that the couple’s expectations were not met and that interactions were restrained under Queen Camilla’s oversight. Both the palace and the Sussexes intend to keep details private as part of reconciliation efforts.

A private family visit between Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, their children, and King Charles at Highgrove prompted claims from royal author Andrew Lownie that Prince William was 'appalled' by the reunion, viewing his father as too lenient. William reportedly had no intention of meeting the Sussexes during their UK trip, with tensions linked to past comments about Catherine. Buckingham Palace described the gathering as a private family occasion.

BBC Politics Live sparked backlash after guest Daze Aghaji criticised Ann Widdecombe’s political legacy during an on‑air discussion about her death, prompting rebukes from fellow panelist Nigel Huddleston and outrage from viewers. Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead in her Devon home, with counterterrorism police now leading the investigation. Politicians from both major parties paid tribute while police confirmed no evidence that the killing was politically motivated.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House with their children, marking the first time the King had seen his grandchildren in more than four years. Prince William did not attend the reunion, with royal author Andrew Lownie claiming he was “appalled” by the visit and views his father as too lenient toward Meghan. Lownie suggested William feels betrayed and sees no path toward reconciliation with Harry, while Buckingham Palace described the meeting as a private family occasion.

A 2010 war drama, The Pacific, produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, is being praised by viewers as an overlooked companion to Band of Brothers. Based on real Marine memoirs, the series portrays brutal Pacific Theater battles and the emotional toll on soldiers. Despite slightly lower review scores than Band of Brothers, audience reactions highlight its powerful storytelling, character depth, and striking realism. All episodes are available on HBO Max via Sky.

Lorraine Kelly recounted her most challenging celebrity interviews, naming Mariah Carey as difficult due to her incoherent answers and citing Lady Gaga for failing to appear after hours of delays. She contrasted these experiences with her positive view of George Clooney, whom she called her favourite guest. Kelly reflected on her long broadcasting career and the many high-profile figures she has interviewed over the years.

A TalkTV segment featured presenter Kevin O'Sullivan declaring that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are “over,” criticizing their ongoing concerns about security ahead of a possible UK visit. Prince Harry’s request for full police protection was rejected, raising doubts about bringing his children to Britain despite his stated wish to reconcile with King Charles. The Sussexes were offered accommodation with existing security measures, but unresolved safety issues remain for travel outside royal estates.

Helen Skelton dismissed ongoing dating rumours about her Morning Live co-presenter Gethin Jones, stressing they are close friends and colleagues only. She noted the speculation had become so widespread that even friends believed it, despite both presenters repeatedly denying a relationship. Skelton also reflected on her 2022 divorce from Richie Myler, describing the public scrutiny as difficult but emphasizing her determination to move forward.

Prince Harry is confirmed to return to the UK next week, but uncertainty remains over whether Meghan Markle and their children will join him after the couple was denied reinstated security protection. Royal correspondent Cameron Walker noted that while previous guidance indicated the family would travel together, recent security decisions could alter plans. Harry continues to contest the removal of his automatic protection, which ended in 2020, and has received warnings of multiple threats. His trip includes events tied to the upcoming Invictus Games in Birmingham.

Winterwatch has been cancelled after 14 years as part of BBC production cuts and will be replaced by Naturewatch, a new weekly video podcast covering nature stories across all seasons. Hosted by expert contributors, the new programme aims to broaden access to Natural History content across TV, iPlayer and Sounds. Springwatch is scheduled to return in May 2027.

Local opposition intensified after plans emerged to house asylum seekers on a rural estate in Stoke Heath, prompting criticism over inadequate infrastructure and a lack of consultation. Parish councillor Mark Gilbert described the location as unsuitable, while MP Mark Pritchard called it inappropriate ahead of a town council meeting. Viewers reacting to the GB News segment expressed anger over the decision as the Home Secretary halted the use of further new homes for migrant accommodation.

CNN interrupted programming to report that Donald Trump earned over $1 billion in 2025 through cryptocurrency ventures, including large sums from the $TRUMP token and World Liberty Financial. Analysts on-air questioned the legality of the earnings, with former White House lawyer Ty Cobb calling the situation unprecedented corruption. The disclosure shows crypto income vastly exceeding revenue from Trump’s real estate assets. The White House defended the president, insisting his business interests are in a trust and denying any conflicts of interest, while emphasizing his goal of making the US a global crypto leader.

Paul Flack died at age 55 after being found unresponsive at his home in Norwich, with a provisional post‑mortem citing cardiac arrest due to hanging. An inquest opened in Norfolk Coroner’s Court has been adjourned while further evidence is gathered. His death comes six years after the suicide of his sister Caroline Flack, whose passing intensified public discussion on mental health and media scrutiny. His final social media post paid tribute to her. Paul previously appeared with family members in a documentary examining the pressures Caroline faced and is survived by his partner and two children.

GB News presenters discussed Andy Burnham’s forthcoming 10‑year economic plan and proposed devolution agenda as he positions himself to succeed Keir Starmer as Labour leader. Commentator Cristo Foufas argued Burnham may push tax and spending further than Starmer, raising concerns among business groups about potential capital gains tax increases. He warned that without a general election the public loses out, either through continued instability or policies delivered without a fresh mandate. Burnham is expected to outline plans to raise living standards, expand mayoral powers and prioritise devolution while facing pressure to clarify his cabinet choices and any departures from Labour’s 2024 manifesto.