Jamie Laing has quit Strictly Come Dancing after a foot injury left him unable to walk.

The Made In Chelsea star has been seen walking around on crutches and a moon boot after falling awkwardly practicing the group dance routine.

The BBC confirmed the news of his departure and stated: ‘Sadly, due to an injury, Jamie Laing will no longer be able to take part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.

‘As the Strictly launch show is pre-recorded, Jamie will still feature in this programme which airs Saturday September 7.’

Jamie said: ‘I’m absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor!

‘I would like to wish the lovely couples all the very best and hope they enjoy their time on the show to the fullest.’

He later added: ‘Thank you to everyone and good luck to all of my buddies who are going to be dancing this year – you guys are going to ROCK it.’ 

Executive producer Sarah James said: ‘We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm.

‘We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.’

Chris Ramsey, who is also taking part this year, was one of the first to sent their love to Jamie and said: ‘Absolutely gutted my mate is out of the show this year. It’s not going to be the the same without him. Gonna miss you lad.’ 

It’s believed that he’s going to be replaced by a new celebrity before the official live shows begin.

Ahead of his appearance on the show, Jamie told cameras he wants to go on the show to ‘make his mum proud’.

‘It’s my mum’s favourite show, he said. ‘It’s going to be the show she will actually watch me in! It makes her really happy. But secondly, I always want to challenge myself. I want to learn to dance!’

As a result, she was the first person he told when he signed up for the series, and he said: ‘She screamed and then went really quiet for a while… I think she found it overwhelming.

‘Honestly for her it is so exciting. My dad then told my grandparents and everyone freaked out.’

The digestive biscuit heir also professed his desire to win, and added: ‘I want to have something to aim towards. That’s what life is about. I have a direction of where I want to go and what I want to achieve – I just need to work my way back!

‘I really want to win Strictly – and that’s what I’m going to try to do.’

For his dream song, he wanted to perform to MMMBop by Hanson, and eventually become a good enough dancer to compete with Danny Zuko himself, John Travolta.

Strictly Come Dancing starts Saturday at 7.10pm on BBC One

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The launch of The Great British Bake Off series 10 pulled in record-breaking figures for Channel 4 as over 9 million people tuned in to Cake Week.

The Great British Bake Off’s return managed to smash viewing figures for its opening episode. Cake Week managed to entice 9.4m viewers and a massive 38.4% audience share, the highest one for the culinary competition during its time on Channel 4.

These figures take into account a seven day consolidation period, such as people recording it or watching it via catch-up services including All 4.

The stats also revealed a record number of viewers also logged on to get their baking fix on the streaming service, with a record number of 1.4 million All 4 views over the past week.

Bake Off also managed to entice the largest young audience of any TV channel over the past week, as 2.4 million 16 to 34-year-olds tuned in to watch Dan Chambers’ controversial elimination from the big white tent.

All in all, the inaugural launch of series 10 has been a massive success for the show. It even managed to outperform itself from last year’s launch show too, where 9.2 million tuned in, which isn’t bad going.

However, we all know that this is just the start of Bake Off fever.

We’ve just passed the second week and viewers are still trying to come to terms with cheeky chappy Jamie Finn’s elimination from the second week of the competition. The 20-year-old posted an emotional message to social media after many fans were outraged that the (admittedly hapless) baker was booted off, but he did give it his best shot.

No doubt, however, the viewing figures will continue to rise as the race to lift the coveted Bake Off trophy heats up.

The Great British Bake Off continues Tuesday at 8pm on Channel 4. 

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Strictly Come Dancing 2019 has already lost one of its number after Jamie Laing quit the ballroom.

The Made In Chelsea star confirmed on Thursday that he would no longer be taking part in the series, saying he was ‘devastated’ to be missing out.

So why has he dropped out of the show ahead of the start of the series this weekend?

Here’s what you need to know…

Why has Jamie Laing quit Strictly Come Dancing?

Jamie has sadly quit Strictly Come Dancing after suffering a foot injury during the recording of the launch show on Friday night.

The 30-year-old has been seen on crutches after reportedly landing awkwardly during the show’s group dance.

‘We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm,’ said executive producer Sarah James

We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.’

Jamie said: I’m absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor!

‘I would like to wish the lovely couples all the very best and hope they enjoy their time on the show to the fullest.’

Channeling his inner John Travolta, @JamieLaing_UK is ready to catch #Strictly Saturday Night Fever🕺 pic.twitter.com/rjiOfPH7ql

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) September 1, 2019

Jamie’s place on the show first fell into doubt earlier this week after he was seen wearing a protective moon boot and hobbling on crutches.

‘It’s touch and go for Jamie and bosses are waiting to see how his results look after he gets a proper X-ray done,’ an insider said.

‘Producers are hoping he’s just landed awkwardly during the group dance and tweaked something rather than it being a more serious injury.’

Will Jamie Laing be replaced on Strictly Come Dancing?

Following Jamie’s exit it’s believed that another celebrity will step in to replace him.

However details of this have yet to be confirmed.

Jamie had already recorded the launch show which is due to air on Saturday night, which will see this year’s celebrities paired with their professional partners ahead of the live shows kicking off later this month.

Strictly Come Dancing 2019’s launch show is on Saturday on BBC One at 7.10[pm. The first live show of the series is on BBC One on Saturday 21 September.

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Jamie Laing will still appear on the launch show for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing despite being forced to leave the competition.

The 30-year-old Made In Chelsea star quit the show after suffering an injury during rehearsals, which is believed to have left him unable to walk.

Jamie, however, will still appear on Saturday’s launch show because it was pre-recorded, with his involvement confirmed in a statement from the BBC.

In a statement, the BBC said: ‘Sadly due to an injury, Jamie Laing will no longer be able to take part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.

Due to an injury, Jamie is no longer able to take part in #Strictly 2019. We’re going to miss you @JamieLaing_UK. 😢 pic.twitter.com/pFieM6wqMl

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) September 5, 2019

‘As the Strictly launch show is pre-recorded, Jamie will still feature in this programme which airs Saturday 7 September.’

Sarah James, executive producer, said: ‘We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm.

‘We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.’

It’s believed Jamie will be replaced by a new celebrity before the live shows begin later this month.

It’s unclear how the BBC will address the absence of Jamie during the show, or whether they’ll record a new segment explaining his departure.

Strictly Come Dancing kicks off Saturday 7 September at 7.10pm on BBC One.

MORE: Why has Jamie Laing quit Strictly Come Dancing?

MORE: Jamie Laing quits Strictly Come Dancing after suffering injury in rehearsals

Jamie Laing has spoken out in an emotional video after the news that he has quit Strictly Come Dancing due to an injury.

The Made In Chelsea star will no longer be competing after he fell awkwardly during the group dance at the launch show.

He posted an emotional video on Instagram saying he was ‘incredibly devastated’ not to be taking part, and wish the rest of the celebrity contestants the best of luck.

Jamie said: ‘I just wanted to give a quick update because it’s been released now that because of my injury I won’t be competing on Strictly this year, which is incredibly devastating and really upsetting.

‘But these things happen in life and when these things happen, you just have to be positive and push on and move forward.

‘I also wanted to say that I wish the best of luck to all of the other guys who are in Strictly this year. They are the best bunch of people ever and the show is gonna be amazing. 2019 is gonna be incredible.

‘I’ll be supporting from the sidelines and I’ll be there in spirit 100%, just I won’t be dancing this year.

‘To everyone who is dancing this year for Strictly I love you guys, you guys are gonna make me proud and make everyone proud. Go and dance and rock it. It’s gonna be great.’

The show announced Jamie had been forced to pull out in a statement released on Thursday, which read: ‘Sadly, due to an injury, Jamie Laing will no longer be able to take part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.

‘As the Strictly launch show is pre-recorded, Jamie will still feature in this programme which airs Saturday September 7.’

Executive producer Sarah James said: ‘We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm.

‘We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.’

It is the first time a celebrity has pulled out before the live shows have even started.

It is believed that the BBC has a replacement for Jamie lined up, and the lucky person will be announced in due course.

Strictly Come Dancing returns 7 September on BBC One.

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MORE: Jamie Laing will still appear on Strictly launch show after injury forces him to leave competition

It appears to be all over for Love Island’s Belle Hassan and Anton Danyluk just five weeks after leaving the villa.

Fans were left speculating about a possible split after the blonde beauty, 21, shared a cryptic quote on her Instagram Stories last night.

The post read: ‘Know your worth. Know the difference between what you’re getting and what you deserve.’

One fan commented: ‘Anton and Belle have definitely split, haven’t they?’

Danyluk, who turns 25 tomorrow, has spent the past few days partying without Hassan in his ‘happy place’, O Beach Resort in Ibiza.

The Scottish gym owner shared a picture of himself surrounded by girls in swimsuits holding up signs spelling out ‘Anton’.

He also spent time hanging out with the lads, including O Beach owner Wayne Lineker and R&B star Craig David.

Rumours of the possible split didn’t come as a surprise to some, including one viewer who tweeted ‘kind of knew this would happen’ and another saying the rumoured breakup is “no surprise…they hardly even used to spend time together.’

Another viewer was pleased by the news, calling Danyluk a ‘wet wipe’ and said Hassan ‘deserve[s] more’.

Hassan and Danyluk haven’t been pictured together since late August, when they posted pictures of themselves canoodling on their holiday to Mallorca.

‘First holiday together was amazing,’ Danyluk wrote under a picture of himself gazing into Hassan’s eyes.

The couple were instantly attracted to each other after meeting on Love Island and formed a strong connection, quickly becoming fan favourites. They were dumped from the show the day before the live final.

‘We’ve still got a bit of dating to do on the outside before we know if it’s going to work,’ Danyluk told New! magazine in August.

‘But we’re both on the same page, which is important.’

If the rumours are true, Hassan and Danyluk will be the second couple from their series to call it quits: Chris Taylor and Harley Brash confirmed their breakup last month.

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Remember that famous Molly Goddard dress Jodie Comer wore in Killing Eve?

The one that made her like a giant, amazing cupcake? Yeah, that one.

Well, that dress – plus a blue Burberry one, and a Zara jacket – are among items from murderess Villanelle’s wardrobe going on display at a new BAFTA exhibit.

Now the big question: what are you going to wear when you go?

In addition to costumes, BAFTA: Behind the Screens will feature an array of treasures from BAFTA winners and nominees, including annotated scripts and handcrafted models.

The exhibit in London’s Piccadilly Circus opens 17 September and coincides with the home of British film opening its doors to the public.

It’s about time guys! We love British TV and film!

A wig worn by Emma Stone in The Favourite will also be included.

Amanda Berry OBE, Chief Executive of BAFTA, said: ‘Behind every BAFTA-nominated film, game or television programme are immense creativity and incredible technical skills, delivered by literally hundreds of people who are passionate about their craft.

‘Our ever-changing exhibition will shine a light on these nominees and their personal journeys.’

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Strictly Come Dancing 2019 stars including Oti Mabuse, Dianne Buswell and Saffron Barker, have flooded social media with well wishes for Jamie Laing after he was forced to pull out of this year’s competition.

The Made In Chelsea star had to make an early exit from the series after injuring his foot during group dance rehearsals, with bosses confirming he couldn’t take part just two days before the show was due to air for the first time.

He later posted a video on Instagram explaining his absence, wishing luck to the rest of the cast as he said: ‘I just wanted to give a quick update because it’s been released now that because of my injury I won’t be competing on Strictly this year, which is incredibly devastating and really upsetting.

‘But these things happen in life and when these things happen, you just have to be positive and push on and move forward.’

Strictly pro Oti Mabuse was among the first to send her well wishes, simply telling him: ‘You will be missed,’ on Instagram.

Dianne Buswell also appeared gutted the star would no longer be taking part, and added: ‘Awww mate so so devastated for you ! You will be sooooo missed’

Saffron Barker, who was going to be competing against Jamie this year, also added: ‘So sad, his bundle of joy will be missed😭💙  Wishing you a speedy recovery’

Alex Scott posted photos of the pair enjoying a giggle on the set of the launch, which was recorded last week, and added: ‘Gutted for you @JamieLaing_UK  you are a gooden and good vibes. Speedy recovery and sending love x’

And it appears we missed out on a blossoming bromance with comedian Chris Ramsey adding: ‘Absolutely gutted. What a joy this man is to be around. Not going to be the same without him.’

The star later shared a similar sentiment on Twitter, which was later responded to by Jamie who wrote back: ‘Going to miss you more buddy.’

The BBC confirmed the news of his departure and stated: ‘Sadly, due to an injury, Jamie Laing will no longer be able to take part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.

‘As the Strictly launch show is pre-recorded, Jamie will still feature in this programme which airs Saturday September 7.’

Jamie said: ‘I’m absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor!

‘I would like to wish the lovely couples all the very best and hope they enjoy their time on the show to the fullest.’

Strictly Come Dancing starts Saturday at 7.10pm on BBC One

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Strictly Come Dancing has a new celebrity lined up to take Jamie Laing’s place.

The Made In Chelsea star has had to drop out of the show before it’s even started due to an injury.

It’s believed that he’s going to be replaced by a new celebrity before the official live shows begin and the lucky person will be announced ‘in due course’, say The Mirror.

The BBC confirmed the news of his departure and stated: ‘Sadly, due to an injury, Jamie Laing will no longer be able to take part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.

‘As the Strictly launch show is pre-recorded, Jamie will still feature in this programme which airs Saturday September 7.’

Executive producer Sarah James said: ‘We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm.

‘We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.’

Jamie said: ‘I’m absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor!

‘I would like to wish the lovely couples all the very best and hope they enjoy their time on the show to the fullest.’

It is the first time a celebrity has pulled out before the live shows have even started.

The reality TV star has recently been seen walking around on crutches after falling awkwardly during the group routine.

Metro.co.uk has contacted the BBC for comment.

Strictly Come Dancing returns 7 September at 7.10pm on BBC One.

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Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing’s Strictly dream is over before it had even properly begun, after he quit the show due to injury.

The 30-year-old reality star was one of 15 celebs set to take to the dancefloor this year – but was left on crutches after sustaining a foot injury during the recording of the launch show last Friday.

‘We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm,’ said executive producer Sarah James

We all wish him a full and speedy recovery.’

It’s believed that Jamie will be replaced by another celebrity on the show, with the Mirror reporting that the last minute addition to the cast will be revealed ‘in due course’.

But who could it be? Well given the rumoured names that were flying round last month before the line-up was unveiled, it could well be one of this lot…

Adrian Dunbar

The Line of Duty actor was tipped as one of the bookies’ favourites to take to the floor ahead of the big reveal of celebrities – so now there’s a vacancy in the team, could it happen? Adrian’s yet to comment on rumours linking him to the show yet but who wouldn’t love to see this happen?

Peter Crouch

His missus Abbey Clancy is of course a former Strictly winner, scooping the glitterball back in 2013 – so it’s no surprise that Peter Crouch was previously tipped to follow in her nimble footsteps and cha cha cha on to the dancefloor – although he’s previously expressed concerns about the ‘curse of Strictly’.

‘I was apprehensive and I remember going to the show where the dancers were picked for the celebrities and I was like “Don’t get that handsome one” and then Aljaz came out,’ he recalled in 2018. ‘I was a bit disappointed but he was great and fair play to him, he came over to me and he loved football so we got on well in that way and they danced beautifully.’

Andy Murray

With Judy Murray having taken to the dancefloor in 2014, it previously fuelled speculation that Andy might give the series a go too – and those rumours have refused to go away. Bookies recently saw his odds of appearing on the show drop right before the line-up was unveiled – so could they potentially see him as a replacement for Jamie too?

Huw Edwards

Newsreader Huw Edwards has previously spoken about rumours of him taking part in Strictly, saying it would be difficult to combine it with his day job – but at the time he didn’t rule it out, even if he didn’t make the initial line-up this year.

‘In future, when my professional life might be in a different shape, maybe it would look like a different kind of challenge,’ he said. ‘Am I terrified by the thought of it? Yes. Do my kids want me to do it? No. All of these are different kinds of factors aren’t they?’

Harry Redknapp

The I’m A Celebrity 2018 winner has revealed he turned down a spot on Strictly in favour of the jungle, saying: I told Jamie I was thinking of doing [Strictly] and I don’t think he was pleased about it. And so I was offered the jungle at the same time and chose to do that.’ Now a last minute spot has come free, could he be in the frame?

Keith Duffy

There’s been no shortage of boybanders on Strictly over the years – and Boyzone’s Keith Duffy was among those originally rumoured to be taking part ahead of the big reveal last month. Could he be a contender to step in?

Could the BBC decide not to replace Jamie?

It’s also possible that the BBC could decide to carry on the series without Jamie and simply have 14 couples instead of 15.

Only a handful of celebrities have ever pulled out of Strictly – Jimmy Tarbuck in 2006, Kelly Brook in 2007, John Sergeant in 2008, Jade Johnson in 2009 and, most recently, Will Young in 2016.

In all of those cases the celebrities were not replaced – but in those instances they all pulled out once the series was underway.

Since Jamie has dropped out of the show before the live instalments have had a chance to get underway, it makes more sense for him to be replaced, since whoever he was due to be partnered with will still have time to train a replacement celebrity in time for the first live show on 21 September.

We’ll know soon enough…

Strictly Come Dancing 2019’s launch show is on Saturday on BBC One at 7.10pm. The first live show of the series is on BBC One on Saturday 21 September.

Brenda Edwards has become the latest Loose Women star to join their Body Stories campaign.

Brenda, 45, rocked a low cut black swimsuit and went topless for the black and white campaign shots.

She bravely spoke about the moment she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2015, and thanked the Loose Women ladies (who took part in a revealing shoot for Body Stories in 2017) for helping her open up about her health.

The panellist said: ‘Whilst doing Hairspray [the musical] in 2015 I found a lump… I went to see the doctors as I could still feel the lump. On the 6th January, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, which was very frightening, scary. I didn’t know what to do, what to make of it or how to handle it.

‘I had chemotherapy for six months and then went through that. All through it, when I told my children, they were like “Come on mum, you can be strong”. My friends and my family they were so supportive.

‘I felt like, I’m going to get through this. It was an amazing eye opener for me. What I started to do was look at food differently as well as I don’t think I ate the right things for my body.

‘It was actually [Loose Women] I came on to announce I was going through it. I’ve watched you ladies – I felt if I come on and give my story I’ll feel strength.’

Brenda underwent a mastectomy and then breast reconstruction. Tissue and skin from her stomach were used to create a new breast and belly button.

‘I’m actually quite happy with how it looks now,’ the actress said.

‘I’ve got a scar there, but it’s not my stretch mark scars, that’s a silver lining I guess.

‘I’m really grateful that my body got me through the cancer, this is my body and I’m embracing me as much as I can.’

For her photoshoot she posed in a black swimsuit, something she admits she would never have done shortly after having her first child.

‘I used to be very confident about my body. Just before I got pregnant with my first baby Jamal, I had a fabulous shape and I was confident with it. I was always wearing jumpsuits. I used to love my jumpsuits back then as well.

‘After I had Jamal, I came out with loads of stretch marks all across my entire stomach. That made me immediately shy away from showing anything to do with my body. You definitely wouldn’t see me in a swimming costume, let alone a bikini.’

Loose Women airs weekdays at 12.30 on ITV.

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Sky has released the first look at A Discovery Of Witches season two, showing off a new Elizabethan London setting.

Based on the novels by Deborah Harkness, the first season of A Discovery Of Witches saw Diana Bishop (Teresa Palmer) discover her magical heritage after an encounter with vampire Matthew Clairmont (Matthew Goode).

The end of the first season saw Diana and Matthew jump through time to 16^th century London to escape together from the Congregation, with the second season following their exploits as they hunt to find a powerful witch teacher to help Diana control her magic.

A first look picture shows Diana and Matthew in their Elizabethan garb, which looks like it could be leaning into the silliness which made the first outing oddly compelling.

A bunch of new cast additions have also been announced for season two, including Steven Cree (Outlander), Sheila Hancock (Doctor Who), James Purefoy (Altered Carbon), and Paul Rhys (Vincent and Theo).

Cree plays Gallowglass De Clermont, a vampire and soldier who is particularly fond of his uncle, Matthew. Purefoy plays founder of the Congregation and commander of the Knights Of Lazarus, Philippe De Clermont, who is a stepfather to Matthew.

Paul Rhys plays Andrew Hubbard, a vampire ruler of all creatures in London in 1590, while Sheila Hancock plays an elder witch called Goody Alsop.

The ten-part second season will follow events in novel Shadow Of Night.

A Discovery Of Witches season two will releases on Sky One and NOW TV next year.

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New plot details have emerged for upcoming Star Wars TV series The Mandalorian, which looks set to focus on the First Order’s rise to power.

While we knew the upcoming Disney+ series will take place between Return Of The Jedi and The Force Awakens in the Star Wars saga, more details from director Dave Filoni and creator Jon Favreau have given a clearer idea of what the show will explore within that time period.

Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, while not confirming exactly, the pair strongly indicated The Mandalorian will explain how the First Order and Supreme Leader Snoke came to be.

Referring to events after Return Of The Jedi, director Dave Filoni said: ‘This doesn’t turn into a good guy universe because you blew up two Death Stars.

‘You get that the Rebels won and they’re trying to establish a Republic, but there’s no way that could have set in for everybody all at once.

‘You have in a Western where you’re out on the frontier and there might be Washington and they might have some marshals, but sometimes, good luck finding one.’

Show creator Jon Favreau added: ‘What could happen in the 30 years between celebrating the defeat of the Empire and then the First Order?

‘You come in on Episode VII, [and the First Order are] not just starting out. They’re pretty far along. So somehow, things weren’t necessarily managed as well as they could have been if they ended up in hot water again like that.’

Exactly how the new Mandalorian bounty hunter fits into this story is unknown, but with the confirmation of a season two already, it’s certainly looking promising.

The show features an impressive cast too, including Pedro Pascal, Carl Weathers, Giancarlo Esposito, Gina Carano, and Werner Herzog.

The Mandalorian releases 12 November on Disney+.

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Comedian Billy Connolly is back on screens tonight in the new ITV travel three-partner Billy Connolly’s Great American Trail.

The series sees the comic attempting to follow the migratory trail of the Scots through the US, kicking off with a trip to the Tartan Day parade in New York and continuing through to Plymouth, Massachusetts, as well as meeting with Native Americans with a story to tell.

The 76-year-old’s return to TV was announced last month, with Billy having retired from stand-up comedy last year due to deteriorating health.

‘It’s going to be welcome news for his fans who thought he was going to be retiring for good,’ a source told The Sun.

Here’s what you need to know about Billy, his wife and his battle with illness in recent years.

Who is Billy Connolly married to?

Billy Connolly is married to Pamela Stephenson, an actress and comedian who now works as a clinical psychologist and writer – and who Strictly fans might remember from the 2010 series in which she reached the final.

The pair first met in 1979 when he made a cameo appearance on the comedy sketch show Not The Nine O’Clock News, in which Stephenson starred alongside Mel Smith, Rowan Atkinson and Griff Rhys Jones.

They were married in 1989 and together have three daughters, Amy, Daisy and Scarlett.

The comedian is also father to children Cara and Jamie with first wife Iris Pressagh, whom he was married to from 1969 to 1985.

As well as being his wife Stephenson also penned his biography Billy, which was published in 2002.

‘Marriage to Pam didn’t change me; it saved me,’ Connolly has said.

‘I was going to die. I was on a downwards spiral and enjoying every second of it. Not only was I dying, but I was looking forward to it.’

What illness does Billy Connolly have?

The comedian was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2013 – on the same day as he also received a prostate cancer diagnosis.

Parkinson’s means that part of the brain becomes damaged over the years, affecting memory, hearing and energy levels.

He’s previously been praised for speaking out about the effect that Parkinson’s has had on him.

Speaking in the documentary Made In Scotland he said: ‘Parkinson’s is strange because it’s not gonna go away.

‘All my life I’ve got sick, I’ve had flu and various things and they all went away. This isn’t going anywhere. This is gonna get worse.’

He also told audiences: ‘I can feel it and I should. I’m 75, I’m near the end. I’m a damn sight nearer the end than I am the beginning.

‘But it doesn’t frighten me, it’s an adventure and it is quite interesting to see myself slipping away, as bits slip off and leave me, talents leave and attributes leave.’

The quotes led Stephenson to later share a video of Billy singing a song, in which he reassured fans that he was ‘not dying’.

Billy Connolly’s Great American Trail is on ITV on Thursday night at 9pm.

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Emily Atack has become the surprise bookies favourite to be last-minute replacement for Jamie Laing after he was forced to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing.

Just two days before the launch show airs, Made In Chelsea star Jamie said he was ‘devastated’ after an injury that occurred during rehearsal cost him his spot on the show.

Now, after winning over hearts on I’m a Celebrity in 2018, bookmakers BetWay have placed odds at Emily stepping in at 9/2.

Her involvement could also mean that one of the male pros, Gorka Marquez or Graziano Di Prima, could suddenly be given a shot at the glitterball too.

Betway’s Alan Alger said: ‘Emily Atack was a big hit with the British public on last year’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here and she’s quickly emerged as the favourite to get a late call-up for Strictly and replace Laing.’

‘If producers are sniffing around for another star from west London, then Laing’s Chelsea chum Spencer Matthews could be the one and he is 10/1 to take part,’ he added.

If Emily does join in on this year’s Strictly, it could throw a major spanner in the works for I’m a Celebrity, who had been rumoured to be lining her up for a presenting spot on I’m a Celebrity spin-off, Extra Camp.

Rugby star James Haskell, who had previously said he had no interest in being on Strictly as rumours circulated he was heading on I’m a Celebrity, is also in the running at 8/1.

Danny Dyer, Ulrika Jonsson and Bake Off’s Nadiya Hussain have also had odds placed against their names making an eleventh hour entry into the competition.

In the meantime, Jamie’s Strictly co-stars have rallied around him to praise him for a job well done and shared their sadness he was no longer in the competition.

Jamie posted a video online saying he was ‘incredibly devastated’ to be out of the show, telling the rest of his co-stars to ‘rock it’ as they prepare for the competition.

He said: ‘I just wanted to give a quick update because it’s been released now that because of my injury I won’t be competing on Strictly this year, which is incredibly devastating and really upsetting.

‘But these things happen in life and when these things happen, you just have to be positive and push on and move forward.

‘I also wanted to say that I wish the best of luck to all of the other guys who are in Strictly this year. They are the best bunch of people ever and the show is gonna be amazing. 2019 is gonna be incredible.

‘I’ll be supporting from the sidelines and I’ll be there in spirit 100%, just I won’t be dancing this year.’

Strictly Come Dancing starts this Saturday at 7.10pm on BBC One.

MORE: When does Strictly Come Dancing 2019 begin and what are the pairings?

Friends is celebrating its 25^th anniversary and Oh. My. God. Could it be any more exciting?!

While most of the major celebrations are happening over in the show’s home of New York, it’s obvious that us UK fans need a way to mark the occasion – and so the team have delivered in a major way.

Here’s how you and your own set of friends can celebrate the show’s anniversary – and where you can catch some special fan events for you to sip your coffee, stock up on merch, or even watch some of your fave episodes.

Visit the Central Perk sofa

The one and only Central Perk sofa is going on tour across the world for you and your buddies to recreate the title sequence (yellow umbrellas and a fountain may be required).

From the Empire State Building to the Burj Khalifa (seriously), the show’s most loved piece of furniture will head over to the UK for three dates in September.

It can be found:

• Ross Fountain & Edinburgh Castle – Monday 16 September
• Cardiff Castle – Thursday 19 September
• Potters Field Park, Tower Bridge, London – Friday 20 September

Sitting rights are coming on a first come, first served basis at each location and is free of charge throughout the day from 10am to 5pm.

Explore the sets

If just sitting on the sofa wasn’t enough, FriendsFest is back and bigger than ever for the special 25^th anniversary.

Heading on tour, sets of the show will be popping up in Milton Keynes, Bristol, Manchester before finishing up in London.

Sets this year include Monica’s apartment, Joey and Chandler’s apartment, and (naturally) Central Perk.

There’s also the opportunity for you and your friends to chug back beer and wear a wedding dress just like Phoebe, Rachel and Monica did.

If you miss it this summer, they’re also bringing the Holiday Armadillo and the gang to London for FriendsFestive from 18 November to 21 December. You can get your tickets here.

Go see the musical parody

If heading to the theatre is more your thing these days, why not blend the two and see the unofficial Friends musical parody Friendsical that’s currently making its way across the UK.

The show is currently travelling across the country after a run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and is stopping in Kingston, Malvern, Blackpool, Chelmsford, Southampton and Croydon.

You can get your tickets here.

Give yourself a serious merch makeover

Stores all over the UK will be filling up on merchandise to celebrate the occasion – but no one has more licenced material than your nearest, trusty ol’ Primark.

Mugs, T-shirts, pyjamas…they’ve got everything you need for a full night in to watch the show in the comfort of your own living room.

Go to Central Perk yourself (if you’re in Manchester)

Primark in Manchester has brought Central Perk to our side of the pond and have done one heck of a job of it at that.

On top of your typical coffee grab ‘n’ go, there’s also a New York inspired menu for you to sink your teeth into to make your day perfect.

Friends is available now on Netflix and airs on Comedy Central.

MORE: Why does Friends’ Chandler keep returning to Janice? Relationship psychologist reveals why exes can’t always quit each other

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Fans have praised Billy Connolly following the first episode of new series Great American Trail.

The 67-year-old Scottish comedian ventures across America for a new three-part series, where he explores territory off the beaten tourist track.

The first episode kicked off in New York during a tartan day parade, as he follows the migratory trail of Scots through the heart of America hundreds of years ago.

His journey takes him through to Plymouth, Massachusetts where pilgrims first arrived on US soil, before meeting a Native American tribe whose people and language was almost wiped out.

Other stops along the road include Boston to meet a group of nuns, and the graveside of Scot, Uncle Sam, who adorned the army recruitment posters.

Safe to say, viewers were very much enjoyed Billy’s travels through history.

Loving #billyconnolly #greatamericantrail @ITV He really is a national treasure. He’s brilliant. So so want to go to New York. One day #Dreaming

— Tracey Kaye (@TraceyKaye1) September 5, 2019

Billy Connolly's new travel show 'The Great American Trail' is absolutely brilliant. What an opening episode! What an absolutely splendid human being he is. Get it watched! 👍#BillyConnolly

— Edd's Heads Caricatures (@eddtravers) September 5, 2019

God! #billyconnolly is just amazing! Can’t wait for next week!! Legend, gets spread around so easy nowadays but, he truly is one of a kind!

— Louis Costa (@mrlouiscosta) September 5, 2019

Billy connollys great american trail……man i could spend my life in this fellas company….. #billyconnolly what a gentleman,what a lovely soul…

— anthony arnell (@antharnell) September 5, 2019

Billy retired from stand-up comedy last year due to his health – after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2013.

He’s previously spoken out about the effect Parkinson’s has had on him, saying: ‘Parkinson’s is strange because it’s not gonna go away.

‘All my life I’ve got sick, I’ve had flu and various things and they all went away. This isn’t going anywhere. This is gonna get worse.’

He added: ‘I can feel it and I should. I’m 75, I’m near the end. I’m a damn sight nearer the end than I am the beginning.

‘But it doesn’t frighten me, it’s an adventure and it is quite interesting to see myself slipping away, as bits slip off and leave me, talents leave and attributes leave.’

Billy Connolly’s Great American Trail continues on ITV Thursday at 9pm.

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First Dates Hotel viewers were left unnerved by Perry, who has a habit sniffing total strangers.

Perry’s unusual habit is understandable, as the 46-year-old works as a perfumier, so he knows what he’s talking about when it comes to a sweet scent.

Appearing in Thursday’s episode, Perry said: ‘I do like to know what people smell like. I sniff people who walk past me in the street. Depends which way the wind’s blowing. You’ve gotta do it really quickly.

‘I think if anyone sees me they’re gonna think I’m a serial killer, but I’m actually just trying to sniff them.’

Perry, who has been single for 12 years, went on: ‘A perfume has top notes, heart notes and bass notes.

‘My perfect partner would have top notes of kindness, that was obvious, heart notes of one of my passions that we can share, and in the bass note sophisticated.’

At least he’s aware of how strange it might seem to people who won’t know what his career is, and people watching at home were completely weirded out.

‘People might think I’m a serial killer but I’m just trying to sniff them! That’s not much better!!!’ one shocked comment on Twitter read.

Another viewer joked: ‘Perry shouldn’t be on #FirstDatesHotel. He should be on #FirstBatesMotel.’

On the show he met 43-year-old Naveed, who Perry decided smelt pretty good, luckily.

The pair definitely hit it off as they connected over their love of dogs and art.

And to top it off they confirmed that they wanted to see each other again when they returned to the UK from Italy, and have since been spending time together since the episode.

Naveed even got a seal of approval from Perry’s dog – can’t get higher praise than that!

First Dates Hotel airs Thursdays at 9pm on Channel 4.

MORE: Billy Connolly praised by viewers for ‘brilliant’ new series Great American Trail

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Yas Queens – our Queer Eye favourites Jonathan Van Ness, Antoni Poworski, Tan France, Karamo Brown and Bobby Berk are back for four special episodes in Japan.

The first trailer dropped for the series, which will air on Netflix from 1 November, and sees the Fab Five bringing in cuisine, fashion, design, grooming, and culture to the city of Tokyo.

The quintet is joined by Japanese model and actress Kiko Mizuhara in each episode as their guide, while comedian Naomi Watanabe will serve as a special guest as well.

The group will work with four heroes in the city while teaming with ‘local tastemakers’.

Queer Eye creator David Collins said: ‘In just a year since we launched season one, Queer Eye has become a global phenomenon once again and the Fab Five are truly the ambassadors of self-care and compassion that the world needs now more than ever.

‘Filming in Japan is a wonderful opportunity for us to work with four deserving heroes that will help showcase the incredible traditions and customs of their country.’

The series is a reboot of Queer Eye For The Straight Guy which ran from 2003 to 2007.

The third season dropped on the streaming service in July, and Queer Eye’s Bobby admitted to Metro.co.uk. that he has struggled filming the show, after the dark subject matters the Fab Five face sometimes take a toll on the group’s collective mental health.

Bobby confessed that as much as he loved his work as the interior designer of the gang, some of the personal stories brought into the show can leave him in a dark place.

Bobby said: ‘I know how this show has been hard on all of our mental health.

‘We really do get very emotionally involved with our heroes and especially seasons one and two, I just didn’t know how to deal with it.

‘I would just go home and cry because it just drains you, it takes a lot out, giving so much so quickly because you really just have to let it all out there.’

Queer Eye season one to three is available on Netflix now.

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Simon Cowell finally apologies to Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall in this weekend’s episode after he previously claimed the singer wasn’t a “genuine star”.

Back in 2012, Simon didn’t hold back when describing his true feelings about the winner of 2011’s series of the talent show.

‘It will sound awful my slagging him off,’ the TV mogul said at the time, ‘but I was disappointed with Jai. You want to find someone who is a star all over the world and who has got a long career.

‘With respect to him, he wasn’t one of our best ones,’ Cowell added. ‘He would make a good living in theatre and is talented but he wasn’t what I was looking for.

‘You want a Diversity or a George Sampson or a Susan Boyle, a different kind of artist who is a genuine star.’

Eek!

Jai, a former care worker from Ayrshire, was a surprise winner in 2011, beating 12-year-old schoolboy Ronan Parke who had been the hot favourite.

His debut album Believe was released on Cowell’s Syco label, but only managed to reach number 54 in the UK charts and he was eventually let go from the label.

‘I did feel when I saw him again that he’s the definition of a proud man. He didn’t sulk — he just came back to prove a point. And he did,’ Simon explained.

‘I knew I had to apologise to him at that moment. It gave me a chance to say something publicly I should have said some time ago.’

Britain’s Got Talent: The Champions continues this Saturday at 8pm on ITV.

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