Sara Baalla

Ellie Taylor has been announced as the new presenter of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing spin-off It Takes Two, replacing former hosts Janette Manrara and Fleur East from September 2026. Taylor, who competed on Strictly in 2022, said she was thrilled to return in a new role. The refreshed programme will include behind-the-scenes coverage from Elstree Studios, celebrity and professional group discussions, and a weekly panel of Strictly alumni, while costume designer Vicky Gill will continue contributing. The announcement follows the reveal of the 2026 Strictly celebrity lineup, with the main show returning to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September.

Good Morning Britain hosts Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh questioned Reform UK MP Richard Tice about Nigel Farage's decision to stay away from the Clacton by-election result declaration. Tice said Farage's security team judged that attending could put his safety at risk, while the presenters sought clarification after a Reform spokesperson reportedly attributed the decision to advice from Essex Police. Tice accused the hosts of focusing on an irrelevant distinction and said they were wasting the interview, prompting a tense exchange. Viewers were divided, with some complaining about the interview and others praising the presenters' questioning.

The Office actress Lucy Davis has revealed that she was diagnosed with incurable stage-four breast cancer 18 months ago and that the disease has spread to her bones. She said chemotherapy was no longer possible and urged people not to ignore spots or lumps, while explaining that humour and acting are helping her face the remaining time in her life. Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh paid tribute to Davis, calling the news a terrible shock and praising her remarkable attitude. Davis has also received messages of support from former co-stars and fellow actors including Ricky Gervais, Laura Aikman, Sarah Paulson and Piers Morgan.

Coronation Street has indicated that Yasmeen Nazir is unlikely to return soon after leaving the street to volunteer at a modern slavery charity in London. Her granddaughter Alya tells Leanne Battersby that she plans to sell her share of Speed Daal because balancing the restaurant with her legal career has become too difficult. Yasmeen is disappointed but has connected Alya with an old friend who may make an offer, while Alya's uncle Idris could also influence the sale.

Nathan Sussex has joined Coronation Street as Richie Parkinson, the previously unseen cousin of Tim Metcalfe. Sussex is recognisable to soap viewers for playing abusive football coach Buster Smith in Hollyoaks, whose storyline involved grooming and sexual abuse and ended with a conviction. Buster was also the father of Damon Kinsella, played by Jacob Roberts, who now portrays Corrie detective Kit Green. Richie is set to become involved in a murder investigation, forcing Tim and Sally to care for his daughter Lucy and significantly disrupting their lives.

Coronation Street viewers thought they had spotted the late villain Pat Phelan while watching Emmerdale. The confusion arose because police officer DS Byrne, played by Dana Haqjoo, was said to closely resemble Phelan actor Connor McIntyre. Phelan was killed off in 2018 after a storyline involving fraud, violence and several deaths, while the Emmerdale scenes showed Joe Tate being questioned over an attack on Billy Fletcher.

Ross Wilkes' threatening behavior in Coronation Street has prompted fans to speculate that Tyrone and Fiz Dobbs's teenage daughter Ruby could be his next target. After Ross allegedly exploited Cassie Plummer as a teenager, threatened her and drove her away from Weatherfield, Fiz became suspicious of his account of Cassie's departure. Viewers fear Ross may also target Hope or try to undermine Tyrone and Fiz's relationship.

Emmerdale characters Sarah Sugden and Jacob Sugden may split after discovering that their daughter Leyla is not biologically theirs. The revelation is linked to Charity Dingle's secret relationship with Ross Barton and her ongoing conflict with Dr Caitlin Todd, who threatens to expose the truth. Fans have predicted that the parentage storyline could destroy Sarah and Jacob's marriage.

Emmerdale viewers questioned why Dawn Taylor appeared without a visible baby bump during a scene in which she confronted Caleb Miligan, despite her character reportedly being at least three months pregnant. Some fans called it a continuity error, while another suggested her jumper may have concealed the bump. The storyline continues with Joe Tate under arrest after Billy Fletcher was attacked, and producer Laura Shaw has teased a dramatic wedding week ending in tragedy.

Claire Sweeney has confirmed her departure from Coronation Street after three years playing Cassie Plummer. Cassie left Weatherfield in an emotional episode after revealing that Ross Wilkes had paid her for sex when she was 15 and was later threatened by him. Sweeney thanked the cast, crew, writers and production team, while co-stars and viewers responded with messages of support and said her character would be missed.

Mabel Addison’s family explained the strict rules governing her work as Clemmie Reed in Emmerdale. She must obtain school and council permission, be supervised throughout filming and breaks, and comply with limits on continuous filming, daily hours and time on set. The family stressed that productions must balance filming demands with children’s education, wellbeing and normal childhood. The story also outlines Clemmie’s current soap storyline involving Dawn, Joe Tate and Billy Fletcher.

BBC Breakfast interviewed Emma Roberts, a Welsh chaplain whose glasses and eyebrows have led social-media users to compare her with Andy Burnham. Roberts, who has adopted the handle “Mandy Burnham,” discussed the unexpected attention and her wish for more normal, practical politics. The programme later showed other Burnham lookalikes, prompting many viewers to criticize the segment as frivolous and evidence that the show lacked real news, although some viewers enjoyed Roberts’s appearance.

A Coronation Street episode revealed that Betsy Swain’s real name is Elizabeth, surprising many viewers. The storyline follows Betsy’s recent strokes, later linked to non‑fatal strangulation during consensual sex with her boyfriend Dylan Wilson, who accepts responsibility and apologises. Despite pressure from her mother Lisa and friend Lauren, Betsy tells police she does not want to press charges. Fans reacted with surprise online to learning her full name.

Fans of EastEnders highlighted the striking resemblance between actor Ronni Ancona, who played Bea Pollard in a recent storyline, and former Big Brother UK contestant Rosie Williams. Viewers shared comparisons on social media after Bea’s arc concluded with her arrest following a series of manipulative and criminal actions involving Honey and Billy. Rosie Williams’ past appearance on Big Brother and her brief on‑show romance were noted as fans remarked on the two women’s similar appearance.

BBC Breakfast announced the death of Australian actor Terence Donovan, known for roles in Neighbours and Home and Away. His sons Jason and Paul Donovan confirmed that he died peacefully in Melbourne and described him as a larger‑than‑life character and their best friend. Jason’s tribute highlighted their gratitude for hospital staff and celebrated their father’s long career across television, film and stage. Donovan’s six‑decade career included notable roles in Division 4 and Cop Shop, as well as contributions to supporting the Australian film and TV industry in the 1970s.

Luca Hoyle is returning to Emmerdale as Elliot Windsor after a two-year on‑screen absence, confirming he is filming a new storyline while continuing his musical theatre studies. Fans welcomed the news amid speculation surrounding the reported upcoming death of his on‑screen father Jimmy King, tied to cast cuts. Supportive reactions followed his announcement, which appeared on his theatre school’s Instagram page.

Jordan North appeared to mouth a swear word during BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, prompting host Matt Tebbutt to apologise on air, though neither North nor others recalled the moment. Viewers expressed confusion and some dismissed the incident as unnecessary to highlight. The episode also introduced a format change removing the usual “food hell” option, drawing complaints from viewers who disagreed with the alteration.

An update in Emmerdale reveals that police interviewed Vanessa Woodfield about Dr Caitlin Todd as part of the investigation into Charity Dingle’s recent sexual assault. Vanessa later learns the truth directly from Charity, prompting emotional scenes and raising questions about Vanessa’s potential involvement in the villain’s future confirmed death. Viewers reacted strongly to the developments, highlighting Vanessa’s deep understanding of Charity and their longstanding connection.

Viewers criticised the BBC’s World Cup coverage after the network moved its presenting team from Salford to Atlanta ahead of England’s semi‑final against Argentina. Fans complained about the late relocation, a negative opening montage, and excessive focus on Lionel Messi, while some also noted audio issues. The pundits praised England players Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham for strong performances as the broadcast continued.

Brian Cox joined ITV’s World Cup coverage for the France–Spain semi‑final, prompting mixed reactions from viewers. Some criticised the broadcaster for featuring an actor in pre‑match analysis, while others welcomed his appearance and comments on Scotland, Cape Verde and football culture. The segment sparked debate online but also garnered appreciation from fans who enjoyed the unexpected punditry.

Andrew Castle delivered an emotional on-air farewell after the BBC decided not to renew his Wimbledon commentary role, prompting strong viewer backlash on social media. Fans criticised the broadcaster’s decision while praising Castle’s skill, insight and long-standing contribution to tennis coverage. Tributes from colleagues, including Tim Henman and Clare Balding, further highlighted his impact as the Wimbledon tournament concluded with Jannik Sinner’s win over Alexander Zverev.

A former Deal or No Deal contestant, Lynne Hackles, reflects on her 2006 £75,000 win and shares an unseen detail about how box numbers were assigned using ping‑pong balls. She recalls her nerves during filming, her relationships with fellow contestants, and how she used some winnings to buy and customise a Winnebago. The article also highlights the show's 2023 ITV reboot, with new host Stephen Mulhern receiving strong praise from a recent contestant for his professionalism and kindness.

Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler died at 75 after complications from recent intestinal surgery, with her family confirming her passing in Portugal. Her final TV appearance on ITV’s Lorraine earlier in the year featured reflections on her career, continued passion for performing, and collaboration with Jim Steinman. Tributes, including from Wales Secretary Jo Stevens, followed the announcement of her death.

BBC Breakfast interviewed satirical candidate Count Binface amid news that Nigel Farage is stepping down as Clacton MP, sparking a by-election in which major parties are not fielding candidates. The comedic exchange drew viewer criticism, with many expressing frustration over the interview’s serious tone toward a satirical figure. The segment prompted widespread complaints on social media about the state of political journalism.

Louise Jameson, known for her role as Mary Goskirk in Emmerdale, reflects on her career and personal life, including past tensions with former Doctor Who co‑star Tom Baker that have since evolved into a close friendship. The piece reviews her major Emmerdale storylines, her time on Doctor Who, and her past marriage to Martin Bedford, noting her emphasis on emotional honesty and preserving love in relationships.

A heated Good Morning Britain debate saw Susanna Reid clash with co-hosts and panellists over whether Prince Harry should receive police protection during his UK visit. Reid argued that threats against Harry and Meghan warranted precaution, while Kevin Maguire and Kwasi Kwarteng countered that security assessments indicate low risk and that Harry should not expect special treatment after leaving royal duties. The panel exchanged sharp remarks over safety, cost, and perceived paranoia before the discussion was moved on.