Sara Baalla

Ellie Taylor has been announced as the new presenter of BBC’s Strictly: It Takes Two, taking over from Janette Manrara and Fleur East when the spin-off returns in September. Taylor, who competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, said she was excited and honoured to return. The revamped programme will air on weeknights from Elstree Studios and include behind-the-scenes coverage, contributions from costume designer Vicky Gill and production staff, celebrity and professional discussion segments, and a panel of returning Strictly veterans. The announcement follows the unveiling of the 2026 celebrity contestants, while Strictly Come Dancing itself is set to return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

A new ITV crime thriller, The Dark, adapted from GR Halliday's novel From the Shadows and led by Laura Donnelly, explores a serial killer investigation set in the Scottish wilderness. Cast members describe the production as shaped by Scotland's harsh, atmospheric landscapes, portraying a grittier and less romanticised view of rural Scotland. Filmed across Glasgow and Inverclyde, the six-part series debuts on ITV1 and ITVX on July 12 at 9pm.

Bonnie Tyler died in a Portuguese hospital at age 75 following complications from emergency intestinal surgery. Her last television appearance on ITV’s Lorraine featured reflections on her career, plans to continue performing, and her lasting enthusiasm for music. Tributes, including one from Wales Secretary Jo Stevens, praised her legacy as a Welsh music icon.

A heated Good Morning Britain debate over Prince Harry’s lack of accommodation at Buckingham Palace sparked clashes between presenters and guests, with Afua Hagan accusing the Home Office and RAVEC of failing to update security assessments. Ed Balls rejected the claim, arguing the security issue had long been settled. Viewer complaints flooded social media, criticising the programme’s focus on the royal dispute.

Susanna Reid apologised on Good Morning Britain for not previously knowing British tennis player Arthur Fery, who made Wimbledon history by becoming the first British wildcard to reach the quarterfinals after a five‑set victory over Grigor Dimitrov. The hosts and contributors discussed his unexpected success, highlighted praise from Tim Henman, and noted Federer’s presence during the match. Fery expressed disbelief and gratitude following his win, which marked a rare late‑stage Grand Slam match between two wildcard entrants.

Lorraine Kelly announced that her ITV show will take a break, leading to a temporary extension of Good Morning Britain until This Morning begins at 10am. The change follows broader ITV daytime schedule reductions implemented last year, which shortened Lorraine and Loose Women to 30 weeks annually. ITV executive Kevin Lygo described the adjustments as part of a transition in production. Susanna Reid, recently absent from GMB for a special project, is set to return as the programme expands during Lorraine’s hiatus.

Dr Amir Khan openly discussed his experiences with social and anticipatory anxiety during a special Loose Doctors broadcast, describing how workplace worry escalated into intense overthinking and panic attacks. Fellow doctors expressed support and reassured him that his conscientious nature contributed to the pressure he felt. The group shared coping strategies before Amir thanked his colleagues for their encouragement.

Viewers criticised Good Morning Britain for hosting a heated debate over whether workers should be allowed to take a half day to watch England’s World Cup match against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Business owners Lindi Glass and Claudia Hearne clashed on air over the economic and workplace implications, prompting negative reactions across social media, with many calling the segment chaotic or unnecessary.

Commentators on Good Morning Britain criticised Prince Harry’s reluctance to visit the UK after losing his appeal for police protection, arguing that security arrangements offered to him are adequate and that his expectations are unreasonable. Hosts and panellists contended that he cannot demand full royal-level protection after stepping back from royal duties. The UK government reiterated that its security procedures are rigorous and proportionate.

Rod Stewart acknowledged criticism for attending Scotland’s World Cup match against Haiti one day after cancelling a California concert due to laryngitis, explaining he went to fulfil a long-standing promise to his sons. He described recent health issues affecting his performances but said he pushed through shows where possible. Fans reacted with understanding while he reaffirmed plans to continue touring, including upcoming appearances such as Rock in Rio Lisboa.

Viewers expressed widespread frustration with BBC iPlayer buffering and the inclusion of a celebrity interview with Stormzy during England’s World Cup match against Ghana, while some praised the BBC’s presenters. Additional criticism followed earlier disruptions in BBC coverage due to weather‑related delays at another match, and the game itself ended in a goalless draw.

Lorraine Kelly announced she will miss several days of her ITV show while travelling to the United States for Scotland’s World Cup match against Morocco, prompting Josie Gibson to host the programme on June 18 and Ruth Langsford to fill in on June 19. During the episode, Kelly discussed her travel anxiety and was given supportive items by Vogue Williams to ease the trip. ITV schedule changes were also noted as Loose Women pauses for Royal Ascot coverage.

Alison O'Donnell is leaving the BBC drama Shetland after 13 years, expressing gratitude for her time portraying DS Alison Tosh McIntosh and reflecting on the role’s personal impact. Producers praised her work and confirmed she will receive a fitting farewell as filming begins on the show's eleventh series, which features a new cast lineup and a storyline centred on a historic murder. Fans reacted with sadness to the news, while the series continues production in Scotland and remains available on BBC iPlayer.

Jermaine Jenas gave his first televised interview since being dismissed by the BBC over allegations of sending unsolicited explicit messages to colleagues. Speaking on Good Morning Britain, he discussed the personal and professional fallout, acknowledged wrongdoing, and said he had apologised to those involved, including his wife. Presenter Ranvir Singh pressed him on accountability and the power dynamic involved, prompting tense exchanges. The BBC issued a statement saying it does not comment on individuals but reviews any issues raised.

Viewers of Good Morning Britain criticised presenters Susanna Reid, Ed Balls and contributors for remarks seen as perpetuating negative Scottish stereotypes during a discussion of a Scotland-only bank holiday approved by King Charles. Comments about hangovers and alcohol drew complaints on social media, with several viewers labelling the discussion condescending and anti-Scottish and calling for an apology.

Viewers criticised a BBC Breakfast puzzle segment after mathematician Matt Parker explained a clothing-based brain teaser whose vague solution frustrated many, prompting calls on social media to drop the feature. Presenters Charlie Stayt and Rachel Burden introduced a new puzzle as the programme also reported on a Blue Origin rocket explosion in Florida and highlighted two brothers completing 33 marathons to raise awareness of frontotemporal dementia.

A series of water‑related deaths during a UK heatwave led Good Morning Britain presenters to deliver updates on multiple drowning incidents, including the death of 15‑year‑old Declan Sawyer. His family issued a public warning about the dangers of swimming in open water, while emergency services continued search efforts in Cheshire. The National Fire Chiefs Council urged parents to discuss water safety with young people and highlighted the risks of cold water shock, advising viewers on life‑preserving steps if they get into difficulty.

Lorraine Kelly and Andi Peters announced the departure of the show's director, Barry, during a live broadcast as ITV’s daytime schedule continues to undergo reductions linked to budget cuts. The programme’s runtime has been halved, with Good Morning Britain expanded to fill the gap, and other daytime shows such as Loose Women also affected. ITV executive Kevin Lygo previously acknowledged the impact on production teams as the network restructures. Andi Peters additionally promoted a new £115,000 competition featuring a secondary £10,000 prize for someone chosen by the winner.

BBC Breakfast presenters Sally Nugent and Jon Kay announced that former colleague Carol Kirkwood has been longlisted for Best TV Presenter at the National Television Awards, shortly after leaving the show following 28 years. Two BBC Breakfast documentaries, including one on the Southport tragedy and another featuring Chris Hoy, also received nominations. The programme itself earned a place in the Daytime category as public voting opens ahead of the September ceremony. Kirkwood’s recent departure and emotional farewell were also highlighted.

A new Channel 4 drama titled Tip Toe, written by Russell T Davies and starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey, explores escalating tensions between two Manchester neighbours as prejudice and radicalisation intensify. Cast members describe the series as dark, brutal and a timely examination of normalised hatred. The show employs shifting timelines and layered storytelling to challenge viewer assumptions. Production leaders at Channel 4 and Film4 praise the drama as gripping, urgent and reflective of contemporary threats facing the LGBTQ+ community. Tip Toe premieres on May 31.

Former UK Eurovision act Electro Velvet reflect on their 2015 grand final performance, recalling nerves, strict timing rules and disappointment with how their live show compared with rehearsals. Bianca Nicholas describes a moment she wishes she could forget due to vocal worries and stiffness on stage, while Alex Larke notes the fast‑paced nature of the contest. They comment on the unpredictability of Eurovision success and offer thoughts on current UK entry Look Mum No Computer. Finland leads the betting odds ahead of a tightly contested final, with Australia, Greece and Denmark also in contention.

Fans expressed disappointment after the Eurovision 2026 final running order placed Denmark first, raising concerns that the position could weaken its chances. Betting odds favour Finland, with Australia emerging as a strong contender following Delta Goodrem’s performance. Graham Norton praised Australia’s entry during a BBC appearance, suggesting it may be difficult to beat. The final will feature 26 countries competing in Austria.

Eurovision viewers anticipate Australia could win the 2026 contest after Delta Goodrem’s standout semi-final performance, which drew widespread praise on social media. Her staging and vocals significantly boosted expectations despite bookmakers initially favouring Denmark. The event featured strong performances, returning presenters, and guest appearances, with the grand final set to air on May 16.

Electro Velvet members Alex Larke and Bianca Nicholas recalled their difficult experience representing the United Kingdom at the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest, including Graham Norton telling them not to continue with music after their poor ranking. They described strict rules limiting social media use, the emotional impact of their low score and their advice for this year’s UK entrant, Sam Battle, emphasising preparation and strong representation.

Betting odds ahead of the Eurovision 2026 second semi-final show Denmark leading, placing pressure on Australia’s Delta Goodrem, whose rehearsal results fell short of expectations. Bulgaria’s DARA topped both press and audience polls, increasing uncertainty for Australia’s qualification prospects. Commentators highlighted Goodrem’s standout staging and elaborate performance, while bookmakers predicted a close race for the remaining finalist spots.

Viewers criticised changes to the Eurovision 2026 semi-final graphics, complaining that full-screen country names replaced performer reaction shots. Additional complaints targeted the production quality, while the redesigned green room received positive remarks. Portugal, Georgia, Montenegro, Estonia and San Marino failed to qualify for the final, and the show featured tributes to Eurovision’s 70-year history along with musical interval entertainment.