British soap opera set in Walford, BBC One staple since 1985
The Mirror publications centre on political leaders tying sport to unity as England’s World Cup run prompts national reflection. The Prime Minister-in-waiting and the Mayor/Andy Burnham reflect on community, identity, and the potential for a bank holiday if England wins.
The BBC has highlighted a funding crisis as licence-fee income declines and audience habits shift. The corporation is exploring options from subscriptions to a universal levy while warning that current funding may not sustain its public-service mission. With 23.3 million licences active and around 80% of households paying, the BBC is under pressure to reinvent its funding model before the 2027 charter renewal.
The Independent reports that Jamie Bamber, Marian McLoughlin, Patricia Potter, Felix Uff and Anna Constable join Nicola Mitchell’s estranged relatives, the Hawkins, in EastEnders. The siblings Rose, Gemma and Jodie, and Nicola’s son Ryder will bring old wounds and new dynamics to Walford as the family’s history unfolds.
Nadia Sawalha has launched legal action against ITV after being removed from Loose Women following her public support for Palestinian rights. A petition demands a public apology and reinstatement. Sawalha asserts she has faced discrimination and harassment tied to her beliefs, while ITV has not commented.
Parliament is debating the assisted dying bill as care shortages and funding pressures dominate the debate. Proponents argue for autonomy and reform, while opponents warn about safeguards and vulnerable groups. The government is highlighting the need to fix palliative and end-of-life care first, with ministers abstaining on the vote. The issue remains highly contested amid demonstrations and ongoing scrutiny of safeguards.
The BBC has confirmed RuPaul’s Drag Race UK will depart BBC Three and iPlayer, moving future series to World of Wonder’s Wow Presents Plus. The decision is part of the BBC’s 500 million savings drive, with the current eighth series continuing on BBC Three and iPlayer before the move. Fans and contestants warn the shift may reduce queer representation on UK screens.
England has authorised Enhertu for routine NHS use for HER2‑low metastatic breast cancer, ensuring access for about 1,000 women annually. The decision follows a previous rejection over cost‑effectiveness and builds on a deal between NICE and drug makers AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo. Scotland has already provided access since 2023.
MPs have voted 286 to 270 against the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, ending the latest attempt to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. Campaigners have reacted with despair outside Parliament, opponents have welcomed the decision, and ministers are urging renewed focus on palliative and social care funding.