Indian–British journalist, broadcaster and writer in the United Kingdom
Rod Liddle, the controversial British columnist and former BBC figure, has died at Middlesbrough’s James Cook University Hospital. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and politicians who praised his wit and provocative voice, while critics pointed to his history of targeting marginalized groups. The news is confirmed by multiple outlets and is developing.
The UK tour of Trainspotting The Musical has been cancelled due to lower-than-expected ticket sales, following a poorly received West End debut. The show, written by Irvine Welsh, had planned visits to Glasgow, Aberdeen and Edinburgh among other cities. The West End run continues until September 5.
The Bloody Scotland festival announces Frances Crawford as the first to win both the Debut Prize and the McIlvanney Prize in the event's history. Denise Mina lends support by handing a trophy, while a misstep with a second trophy prompts a green‑room moment before Crawford takes both prizes. The festival also reveals its packed weekend lineup of crime authors and events.
The Celebrity Traitors series is back on BBC One, with Claudia Winkleman hosting 21 new celebrities in Ardross Castle, Scotland. The show aims to uncover Traitors and faithfuls as they vie for a charity prize of up to £120,000. The Highlands setting and a star-studded cast are highlighted, with episodes airing starting October 1.
The second series of Celebrity Traitors has launched with 21 stars entering Ardross Castle in Scotland. Host Claudia Winkleman introduces a larger cast, extended episodes, and new twists as Richard E. Grant and Maya Jama are revealed as Traitors. The series streams on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK, with international options via Peacock in the US.
The BBC reality game show has opened with a dramatic launch, featuring Acaster and Rajan negotiating to be traitors while facing potential murder. The episode sets up alliances, betrayals and a charity prize pot, with Claudia Winkleman hosting at Ardross Castle.