Samantha King

Ellie Taylor has been confirmed as the new host of the BBC Two companion programme It Takes Two, replacing Fleur East and Janette Manrara. The show will feature behind-the-scenes access to Strictly Come Dancing, interviews with contestants and creatives, separate celebrity and professional discussions, and a panel of former Strictly stars. Taylor is a comedian, actor, author and presenter known for Ted Lasso, Plebs and Mock the Week; she also competed on Strictly in 2022 with Johannes Radebe. She is married to former CNN reporter Phil Black and published a bestselling memoir about motherhood.

A trailer for Ryan Murphy’s series The Shards, adapted from Bret Easton Ellis’s novel, previews a dark 1980s Los Angeles thriller centered on privileged teens and a serial killer known as The Trawler. The cast includes Igby Rigney, Homer Gere, Kaia Gerber and others, with Ellis serving as executive producer. Early reactions range from strong enthusiasm among Murphy’s fans to skepticism from viewers wary of his recent output. The first two episodes debut on Disney Plus on August 6, followed by weekly releases.

The Legally Blonde prequel series Elle includes an emotional tribute to the late James Van Der Beek, who appears posthumously in Episode 3 as Dean Wilson. A title card honoring him appears before the closing credits, prompting strong emotional reactions from viewers. The series revisits Elle Woods' early life, with Lexi Minetree portraying the character, and all episodes are available on Prime Video. A second season is already in production for release in 2027.

A graphic horror film by Lee Cronin, The Mummy, has been released on HBO Max after its theatrical run, with viewers praising its intensity and extreme gore while warning sensitive audiences. The story follows parents who discover their long‑missing daughter mummified yet alive, leading to disturbing consequences. Critics were lukewarm, but audience ratings are strong, and fan reactions highlight both the film’s frightening elements and its visceral content.