A British celebrity dance competition show pairing stars with pro dancers
The Independent reports that an encounter at the Apostolic Palace shows a close, informal exchange between Pope Leo and a prominent, non-Catholic music figure, underscoring a mood of openness following the pope’s death and a resurgence of cultural diplomacy.
Infortar Estonian Challenge winner Martin Franssen has claimed a 19-under total to win the DP World Tour’s HotelPlanner Tour event in Tallinn, edging England’s Andrew Wilson by three shots. Franssen, an Inverness-born, St Andrews-based player, secures his first Scottish title on the circuit, after a season of steady progress and a breakthrough victory the previous year.
The Jordans have announced a trial separation and are focusing on co-parenting their daughter Ella. James has been struggling with mental health, and both are asking for privacy as they navigate this difficult period.
The 2026 Strictly Come Dancing line-up has been revealed, prompting debates about star power vs. new talent. Analysts note a shake-up in presenters and pros, with fans split over the cast’s appeal and the show’s lasting appeal amid budget concerns.
ITV confirms a panel refresh for The Voice UK, with Cheryl and Aitch joining as coaches and Sir Tom Jones leaving a full-time role. Emma Willis will host, with Solomon and Dixon taking over the presenting duties. The changes come amid insurance cost concerns and a push to refresh the show.
Campaign Take Five to Stop Fraud urges Britons to resist constant politeness during cold calls and scams. Polls show 32-53% fear seeming rude or keeping conversations going, while impersonation scams and financial losses rise. Backed by Craig Revel Horwood, the effort argues ending conversations quickly helps verify identity and protect money.
BBC and The Guardian report a major refresh for Strictly Come Dancing as Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe take the helm. New professional dancers join the show, the partner-reveal is staged in front of a studio audience, and the format gets a broad shake‑up while still delivering the familiar glitz.
Dame Esther Rantzen has died at 86 after a long illness, her family has announced. The broadcaster fronted That’s Life! for 21 years, founded Childline in 1986 and the Silver Line in 2012, and later campaigned publicly for legal change on assisted dying after a stage-four lung cancer diagnosis in 2023.
The Independent reports that Nellis, a 33-year-old former air-traffic controller, has joined Strictly Come Dancing in the latest series, alongside Stacey Walters and other familiar faces. Walters, aged 64, is also part of the BBC show’s new lineup after host changes. Both profiles highlight career shifts into entertainment and the public’s reception of their TV debuts.
Joshua Kerry is charged with preparing acts of terror in connection with the July 2026 murder of Ann Widdecombe. Prosecutors say the investigation linked him to targets including Farage; he appeared in court and remains in custody as the case proceeds. Multiple outlets report the development.