Britbox offers a wide variety of shows from the BBC, ITV and other content partners. (Courtesy image)
The British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) commercial arm BBC Studios is buying out peer broadcaster ITV’s stake in their streaming-focused joint venture Britbox International, the companies confirmed on Friday.
The announcement was made in a regulatory filing that affirmed BBC Studios will spend £225 million (around $321 million) to acquire ITV’s 50 percent stake in Britbox, giving BBC Studios full control of the streaming service.
As part of the deal, BritBox International CEO Reemah Sakaan will leave the company in the near future, with a new executive leadership team expected to be announced by the BBC in the coming days. She will remain with Britbox through the transitional period, the BBC said.
The deal values Britbox International at just north of £500 million (around $631 million).
“This is an important acquisition for us,” Tom Fussell, the CEO of BBC Studios,...
The British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) commercial arm BBC Studios is buying out peer broadcaster ITV’s stake in their streaming-focused joint venture Britbox International, the companies confirmed on Friday.
The announcement was made in a regulatory filing that affirmed BBC Studios will spend £225 million (around $321 million) to acquire ITV’s 50 percent stake in Britbox, giving BBC Studios full control of the streaming service.
As part of the deal, BritBox International CEO Reemah Sakaan will leave the company in the near future, with a new executive leadership team expected to be announced by the BBC in the coming days. She will remain with Britbox through the transitional period, the BBC said.
The deal values Britbox International at just north of £500 million (around $631 million).
“This is an important acquisition for us,” Tom Fussell, the CEO of BBC Studios,...
- 3/1/2024
- by Matthew Keys
- The Desk
Writer Paul Mayhew-Archer has penned comedy drama But When We Dance based on his own experience of Parkinson’s. Here are the details:
Work has finally started on veteran comedy writer Paul Mayhew-Archer’s next project: But When We Dance, a feature length drama which was meant to go into production for the BBC over three years ago, but the pandemic threw the schedule into chaos.
Johnny Campbell is on board to direct from Mayhew-Archer’s script, while the BBC is currently finalising the cast.
The story “centres on two people with lots in common: a great sense of humour, a love of dance, and Parkinson’s,” according to Deadline.
Mayhew-Archer is probably best known for co-writing every episode of The Vicar Of Dibley with Richard Curtis. He has worked behind the scenes in BBC comedy since the 1980s, script editing shows as diverse as Steven Moffat’s Chalk to...
Work has finally started on veteran comedy writer Paul Mayhew-Archer’s next project: But When We Dance, a feature length drama which was meant to go into production for the BBC over three years ago, but the pandemic threw the schedule into chaos.
Johnny Campbell is on board to direct from Mayhew-Archer’s script, while the BBC is currently finalising the cast.
The story “centres on two people with lots in common: a great sense of humour, a love of dance, and Parkinson’s,” according to Deadline.
Mayhew-Archer is probably best known for co-writing every episode of The Vicar Of Dibley with Richard Curtis. He has worked behind the scenes in BBC comedy since the 1980s, script editing shows as diverse as Steven Moffat’s Chalk to...
- 2/28/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
To celebrate the release of The Madame Blanc Mysteries Series 3 & Series 1-3 DVD Box Set, arriving on DVD and digital 26 February 2024, we are giving away a Series 3 DVD to a lucky winner!
We return to fabulous France for more escapist charm with the marvellous The Madame Blanc Mysteries Series 3. TV favourite Sally Lindsay co-writes and takes the lead role alongside Sue Vincent in this much-loved, warm-hearted series.
Kicking off with a festive special – in which a murder mystery party becomes all too real, when an actual murder victim is discovered – we once again join antique dealer turned amateur sleuth Jean White (Lindsay). We follow the amiable amateur detective and her friends as they investigate more concerning crimes, set against the stunning vistas of Sainte Victoire in this third helping of Gallic goodness.
With a captivating blend of suspense, charismatic characters, compelling storylines and unexpected twists, The Madame Blanc Mysteries continues...
We return to fabulous France for more escapist charm with the marvellous The Madame Blanc Mysteries Series 3. TV favourite Sally Lindsay co-writes and takes the lead role alongside Sue Vincent in this much-loved, warm-hearted series.
Kicking off with a festive special – in which a murder mystery party becomes all too real, when an actual murder victim is discovered – we once again join antique dealer turned amateur sleuth Jean White (Lindsay). We follow the amiable amateur detective and her friends as they investigate more concerning crimes, set against the stunning vistas of Sainte Victoire in this third helping of Gallic goodness.
With a captivating blend of suspense, charismatic characters, compelling storylines and unexpected twists, The Madame Blanc Mysteries continues...
- 2/18/2024
- by Competitions
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
A Comedic Gem in the Rough The sitcom Mrs Brown’s Boys, with its unorthodox humor and the lovable character of Mrs. Brown played by Brendan O’Carroll, has carved out a special place in the hearts of its viewers. It’s not just the jokes that get us; it’s the way they’re delivered, with a mix of warmth and razor-sharp wit that only Agnes Brown can serve up. Where It All Began The very first episode of Mrs Brown’s Boys sets the tone for the series with Agnes Brown tangled in a hilarious misunderstanding during a phone call. This misheard conversation spirals...
- 1/22/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
Get ready to kick off the New Year with laughter as “Mrs. Brown’s Boys” returns to BBC One at 10:00 Pm on Monday, January 1, 2024. In this uproarious episode, Mrs. Brown and her lively gang dive headfirst into the spirit of the new year, embracing a challenging health and fitness regime. Brace yourselves for the comedic chaos that ensues as they attempt to navigate the world of treadmills, dumbbells, and aerobics – because, as the saying goes, it’s a new year, and there’s a new Agnes!
As Mrs. Brown takes on the mantle of a fitness guru, viewers can anticipate a riot of hilarious moments, witty banter, and, undoubtedly, some unexpected twists in the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. With the signature humor and charm that “Mrs. Brown’s Boys” is known for, this episode promises a delightful start to the year, reminding us all that sometimes the best way to...
As Mrs. Brown takes on the mantle of a fitness guru, viewers can anticipate a riot of hilarious moments, witty banter, and, undoubtedly, some unexpected twists in the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. With the signature humor and charm that “Mrs. Brown’s Boys” is known for, this episode promises a delightful start to the year, reminding us all that sometimes the best way to...
- 12/26/2023
- by Posts UK
- TV Everyday
Get ready for a night of uproarious laughter as “Mrs Brown’s Boys” graces the screens on BBC One at 10:45 Pm on Monday, December 25, 2023. In this Christmas special, all Mrs. Brown yearns for is a tranquil and peaceful holiday celebration. However, the family has other ideas, and chaos ensues when Cathy takes on the colossal task of cooking Christmas dinner for the first time ever.
As the hilarious matriarch of the Brown family, Mrs. Brown finds herself caught in the whirlwind of festive mayhem. The comedic genius of Brendan O’Carroll and the delightful ensemble promise an evening filled with humor, family antics, and the kind of mishaps that make the “Mrs Brown’s Boys” Christmas specials a beloved tradition.
Join BBC One at 10:45 Pm for a side-splitting journey into the Brown family’s Christmas shenanigans. With the irresistible charm of Mrs. Brown and her eccentric clan, this Christmas special guarantees...
As the hilarious matriarch of the Brown family, Mrs. Brown finds herself caught in the whirlwind of festive mayhem. The comedic genius of Brendan O’Carroll and the delightful ensemble promise an evening filled with humor, family antics, and the kind of mishaps that make the “Mrs Brown’s Boys” Christmas specials a beloved tradition.
Join BBC One at 10:45 Pm for a side-splitting journey into the Brown family’s Christmas shenanigans. With the irresistible charm of Mrs. Brown and her eccentric clan, this Christmas special guarantees...
- 12/19/2023
- by Posts UK
- TV Everyday
“Avoidance,” featuring BAFTA-winning British comedian Romesh Ranganathan, will premiere on BritBox International in North America and South Africa in September.
Created and written by Ranganathan and Benjamin Green (“Romantic Getaway”) and starring Ranganathan, the series follows anti-hero Jonathan who is struggling to get back on his feet after breaking up with partner Claire. After Claire has accused him of being impossible to live with and keen to avoid conflict at all costs, Jonathan moves in with his sister and her wife. For the sake of his nine-year-old son, Spencer, Jonathan starts to rebuild his life and pull himself together.
The series will premiere Sept. 20. “Avoidance” is also available on BritBox in Australia.
BritBox will also debut Season 2 of “The Curse” on September 6. Set 18 months after the first season, which saw the show’s cast accidentally pull off the biggest gold heist in history, this time the action moves to Spain...
Created and written by Ranganathan and Benjamin Green (“Romantic Getaway”) and starring Ranganathan, the series follows anti-hero Jonathan who is struggling to get back on his feet after breaking up with partner Claire. After Claire has accused him of being impossible to live with and keen to avoid conflict at all costs, Jonathan moves in with his sister and her wife. For the sake of his nine-year-old son, Spencer, Jonathan starts to rebuild his life and pull himself together.
The series will premiere Sept. 20. “Avoidance” is also available on BritBox in Australia.
BritBox will also debut Season 2 of “The Curse” on September 6. Set 18 months after the first season, which saw the show’s cast accidentally pull off the biggest gold heist in history, this time the action moves to Spain...
- 8/7/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Sales company also takes on Janis Pugh’s Great 8 selection ‘Chuck Chuck Baby.’
The Yellow Affair has boarded international sales for Mark Leonard Winter’s feature directorial debut The Rooster starring Hugo Weaving (The Lord Of The Rings) and Phoenix Raei (The Night Agent).
When the body of his oldest friend is found buried in a shallow grave, a small-town cop, forms a strange relationship with a volatile hermit who may have been the last person to see his friend alive.
Winter is an acclaimed actor who previously appeared in The Dressmaker, Elvis and Top of the Lake: China Girl.
The Yellow Affair has boarded international sales for Mark Leonard Winter’s feature directorial debut The Rooster starring Hugo Weaving (The Lord Of The Rings) and Phoenix Raei (The Night Agent).
When the body of his oldest friend is found buried in a shallow grave, a small-town cop, forms a strange relationship with a volatile hermit who may have been the last person to see his friend alive.
Winter is an acclaimed actor who previously appeared in The Dressmaker, Elvis and Top of the Lake: China Girl.
- 5/12/2023
- by Wendy Mitchell
- ScreenDaily
Long-running soap opera “EastEnders” and reality sensation “The Traitors” were the most streamed shows on BBC streamer iPlayer during the holiday period.
During the two-week period from Dec. 20 to Jan. 2, “EastEnders” pulled in 23.7 million streams, while the Studio Lambert-produced “The Traitors” drew 12.4 million to iPlayer. Next up was children’s program “Hey Duggee” with 10.2 million, fantasy drama “His Dark Materials” with 8.2 million and children’s show “Bluey” with 6.2 million.
The numbers for “The Traitors,” in particular, are impressive given the show — which is based on a Dutch format from broadcaster Rtl — wrapped its linear broadcast only on Dec. 22, meaning a substantial audience caught up with the series as a boxset on iPlayer. Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, the “Mafia”-style reality show, in which a group of “faithful” contestants have to find the “traitors” in their midst who are quietly killing them off, was one of Britain’s most talked-about programs of the year.
During the two-week period from Dec. 20 to Jan. 2, “EastEnders” pulled in 23.7 million streams, while the Studio Lambert-produced “The Traitors” drew 12.4 million to iPlayer. Next up was children’s program “Hey Duggee” with 10.2 million, fantasy drama “His Dark Materials” with 8.2 million and children’s show “Bluey” with 6.2 million.
The numbers for “The Traitors,” in particular, are impressive given the show — which is based on a Dutch format from broadcaster Rtl — wrapped its linear broadcast only on Dec. 22, meaning a substantial audience caught up with the series as a boxset on iPlayer. Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, the “Mafia”-style reality show, in which a group of “faithful” contestants have to find the “traitors” in their midst who are quietly killing them off, was one of Britain’s most talked-about programs of the year.
- 1/5/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
BBC comedy legend Kelly Monteith has died aged 80.
The American comic, best known for his self-titled BBC show, which ran from 1979 to 1984, died on Monday (2 January).
His death was announced by Los Angeles-based production company The Anglophile Channel, which he had worked closely with.
Monteith’s passing comes just a year after he suffered two strokes in February 2021 that left him with aphasia. At the time, his ex-wife Caroline Alexander created a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his rehabilitation and speech therapy.
He reportedly spent two years at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre.
The Anglophile Channel shared a statement on social media which read: “It is with great sadness that The Anglophile Channel announces the passing of our dearest friend and teammate, award-winning comedian/host, Kelly Monteith.
“Kelly was an integral part of Tac having co-hosted Brit Flix with Kelly, Paul and Two-Buck Chuck and Kelly’s BBC Memories.
We miss you so much,...
The American comic, best known for his self-titled BBC show, which ran from 1979 to 1984, died on Monday (2 January).
His death was announced by Los Angeles-based production company The Anglophile Channel, which he had worked closely with.
Monteith’s passing comes just a year after he suffered two strokes in February 2021 that left him with aphasia. At the time, his ex-wife Caroline Alexander created a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his rehabilitation and speech therapy.
He reportedly spent two years at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre.
The Anglophile Channel shared a statement on social media which read: “It is with great sadness that The Anglophile Channel announces the passing of our dearest friend and teammate, award-winning comedian/host, Kelly Monteith.
“Kelly was an integral part of Tac having co-hosted Brit Flix with Kelly, Paul and Two-Buck Chuck and Kelly’s BBC Memories.
We miss you so much,...
- 1/3/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
The Masked Singer fans are adamant that they have discovered the real identity of the Cat and Mouse on the ITV series.
According to viewer theories, married couple and singers Martin and Shirlie Kemp are allegedly behind the masks of the Cat and Mouse.
The first episode of the season, which aired on ITV on Sunday (1 January), saw the animalistic pair go up against Ghost, Jellyfish, Phoenix, Knitting and Otter to impress the studio audience and the panel.
Ghost was eventually unmasked as footballer Chris Kamara, leaving viewers thrilled and the panel shocked.
Now, viewers have their suspicions that Pepsi & Shirlie singer, Shirlie, and Spandau Ballet vocalist, Martin, are hiding under the Cat and Mouse costumes.
Viewers believe that the clues given in episode one were enough to give their identities away.
Clues included the number 20,000,000 written on a notepad and “knowing how to spin a tale”, while the cat...
According to viewer theories, married couple and singers Martin and Shirlie Kemp are allegedly behind the masks of the Cat and Mouse.
The first episode of the season, which aired on ITV on Sunday (1 January), saw the animalistic pair go up against Ghost, Jellyfish, Phoenix, Knitting and Otter to impress the studio audience and the panel.
Ghost was eventually unmasked as footballer Chris Kamara, leaving viewers thrilled and the panel shocked.
Now, viewers have their suspicions that Pepsi & Shirlie singer, Shirlie, and Spandau Ballet vocalist, Martin, are hiding under the Cat and Mouse costumes.
Viewers believe that the clues given in episode one were enough to give their identities away.
Clues included the number 20,000,000 written on a notepad and “knowing how to spin a tale”, while the cat...
- 1/2/2023
- by Ellie Muir
- The Independent - TV
Charlize Theron has named her one requirement for saying “yes” to a Fast and Furious spin-off.
The racing car franchise is due to release its next entry – titled Fast X – in May this year. The film follows 22 years after the first movie, starring the late Paul Walker and Vin Diesel, hit cinemas in 2001.
Over the years, a number of actors have appeared in the franchise.
Among those names, which include Dwayne Johnson, Brie Larson, Eva Mendes, and Djimon Hounsou, is Theron.
Theron, 47, first appeared as Cipher, an adept hacker and cyberterrorist, in 2017’s The Fate of the Furious and reprised the role in 2021’s F9. She will also portray the character in the forthcoming 10th film.
Cipher has become a fan-favourite character who could possibly justify her own spin-off film.
Asked by Entertainment Tonight whether she would consider leading a spin-off, Theron gave a straight-forward answer, naming the one condition she has for saying yes.
The racing car franchise is due to release its next entry – titled Fast X – in May this year. The film follows 22 years after the first movie, starring the late Paul Walker and Vin Diesel, hit cinemas in 2001.
Over the years, a number of actors have appeared in the franchise.
Among those names, which include Dwayne Johnson, Brie Larson, Eva Mendes, and Djimon Hounsou, is Theron.
Theron, 47, first appeared as Cipher, an adept hacker and cyberterrorist, in 2017’s The Fate of the Furious and reprised the role in 2021’s F9. She will also portray the character in the forthcoming 10th film.
Cipher has become a fan-favourite character who could possibly justify her own spin-off film.
Asked by Entertainment Tonight whether she would consider leading a spin-off, Theron gave a straight-forward answer, naming the one condition she has for saying yes.
- 1/2/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - Film
TV viewers have complained about the return of Mrs Brown’s Boys in the New Year.
The divisive series stars Brendan O’Carroll as Agnes Brown, a mother to six children in Dublin. It is based on the popular theatre show and book series.
Following the “unwatchable” Christmas episode that aired on 25 December, Mrs Brown’s Boys returned for a second special, this time to celebrate New Years on 1 January.
Titled “In Mammy’s Hair Loom”, the story picks up where the Christmas episode left off with suspicion circling around Cathy’s (Jennifer Gibney) creepy boyfriend, Boris.
Unfortunately, viewers were as unhappy with the New Year’s special as they were with the Christmas episode – perhaps even more so considering its timing.
The special followed immediately after the much-anticipated return of Happy Valley.
The critically acclaimed and fan-favourite crime drama series, starring Sarah Lancashire and James Norton, returned for its third season on...
The divisive series stars Brendan O’Carroll as Agnes Brown, a mother to six children in Dublin. It is based on the popular theatre show and book series.
Following the “unwatchable” Christmas episode that aired on 25 December, Mrs Brown’s Boys returned for a second special, this time to celebrate New Years on 1 January.
Titled “In Mammy’s Hair Loom”, the story picks up where the Christmas episode left off with suspicion circling around Cathy’s (Jennifer Gibney) creepy boyfriend, Boris.
Unfortunately, viewers were as unhappy with the New Year’s special as they were with the Christmas episode – perhaps even more so considering its timing.
The special followed immediately after the much-anticipated return of Happy Valley.
The critically acclaimed and fan-favourite crime drama series, starring Sarah Lancashire and James Norton, returned for its third season on...
- 1/2/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
There’s something a bit magical about television on Christmas. Maybe it’s the cold weather driving everyone indoors. The gluttonous, slowly digesting roast dinners pinning everyone to the sofa. The intra-family arguments that need drowning out with noise. For whatever reason, Christmas always seems to be the time when most everyone agrees to convene around the TV screen and watch whatever’s on – an ingrained, sacred ritual somewhat befitting a religious holiday. I’m not sure Christmas TV has ever been less nourishing, however, than this year.
With a few notable exceptions, the UK’s 2022 Christmas TV line-up may have been the worst on record – it’s certainly the worst I can remember. There were a few highlights dotted around the festive period, of course, such as I Hate Suzie Too and a festive Motherland special. Children were well serviced with BBC One’s charming animation The Boy, the Mole,...
With a few notable exceptions, the UK’s 2022 Christmas TV line-up may have been the worst on record – it’s certainly the worst I can remember. There were a few highlights dotted around the festive period, of course, such as I Hate Suzie Too and a festive Motherland special. Children were well serviced with BBC One’s charming animation The Boy, the Mole,...
- 12/30/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Ben Shapiro has found himself the subject of widespread mockery after sharing a lengthy diatribe about Rian Johnson’s film Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.
The conservative pundit shared a 17-post thread on Twitter on Boxing Day, where he attacked both the writing and Johnson’s political leanings.
“I regret to inform you that Glass Onion is actively bad,” he announced.
Shapiro then proceeded to detail why he had been so offended by the Netflix film, sharing a number of spoilers along the way.
Spoilers for Glass Onion follow...
“Rian Johnson’s politics is as lazy as his writing,” he wrote. “His take on the universe is that Elon Musk is a bad and stupid man, and that anyone who likes him – in media, politics, or tech – is being paid off by him.”
Fans have already drawn comparisons between Edward Norton’s tech bro CEO character Miles Bron and Twitter owner Elon Musk.
The conservative pundit shared a 17-post thread on Twitter on Boxing Day, where he attacked both the writing and Johnson’s political leanings.
“I regret to inform you that Glass Onion is actively bad,” he announced.
Shapiro then proceeded to detail why he had been so offended by the Netflix film, sharing a number of spoilers along the way.
Spoilers for Glass Onion follow...
“Rian Johnson’s politics is as lazy as his writing,” he wrote. “His take on the universe is that Elon Musk is a bad and stupid man, and that anyone who likes him – in media, politics, or tech – is being paid off by him.”
Fans have already drawn comparisons between Edward Norton’s tech bro CEO character Miles Bron and Twitter owner Elon Musk.
- 12/28/2022
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - Film
Ryan Seacrest is in support of CNN’s decision to reduce alcohol consumption during its New Year’s Eve broadcast.
Last month, it was reported that the network will be reducing its alcohol consumption both on and off-camera during its end-of-the-year broadcast.
Seacrest, who is the longtime host of ABC’s Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve told Entertainment Weekly that he supports CNN’s decision.
“I don’t advocate drinking when one is on the air,” he said. “I don’t know how that started as a tradition but it’s probably a good idea [to scale back], CNN.”
Seacrest also said that he and his ABC co-hosts won’t be consuming alcohol until after 1am on 1 January.
“There’s some pretty respectable people or at least one, right?” he joked about CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live, which is hosted by Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. “I think...
Last month, it was reported that the network will be reducing its alcohol consumption both on and off-camera during its end-of-the-year broadcast.
Seacrest, who is the longtime host of ABC’s Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve told Entertainment Weekly that he supports CNN’s decision.
“I don’t advocate drinking when one is on the air,” he said. “I don’t know how that started as a tradition but it’s probably a good idea [to scale back], CNN.”
Seacrest also said that he and his ABC co-hosts won’t be consuming alcohol until after 1am on 1 January.
“There’s some pretty respectable people or at least one, right?” he joked about CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live, which is hosted by Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. “I think...
- 12/28/2022
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - TV
“Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” Thus spoke Jesus on the Mount of Olives, when confronted by a woman charged with adultery. We are all sinners, he proclaimed, our judgement skewed. This is also the position seemingly held by Frances Poletti, creator of twisty new ITV four-parter Without Sin. There’s some Biblical-level forgiveness required in this drama about the fallout from a teenage girl’s murder.
Stella (Vicky McClure), a late-night taxi driver tormented by an all-consuming grief, haunts the streets of Nottingham. Her daughter Maisy was murdered three years ago in their family home. Husband Paul (Perry Fitzpatrick) has moved on with another woman, but Stella is still struggling. Her attempts at normality – cheesy dancing to Dexys Midnight Runners, eating toast at a late-night café, going out for a pint – leave her unmoved. But when the man convicted of Maisy’s murder – Charles Stone...
Stella (Vicky McClure), a late-night taxi driver tormented by an all-consuming grief, haunts the streets of Nottingham. Her daughter Maisy was murdered three years ago in their family home. Husband Paul (Perry Fitzpatrick) has moved on with another woman, but Stella is still struggling. Her attempts at normality – cheesy dancing to Dexys Midnight Runners, eating toast at a late-night café, going out for a pint – leave her unmoved. But when the man convicted of Maisy’s murder – Charles Stone...
- 12/28/2022
- by Nick Hilton
- The Independent - TV
An old episode of Chuck Woolery’s dating show Love Connection has resurfaced, and people can’t get enough of the two contestants.
The hit dating show, which lasted 11 seasons beginning in 1983 and running until 1994, followed blindly matched couples on their first dates, who would later reveal their first impressions to host Woolery in front of a live audience.
A particular clip of 1994 contestants Robin Dimiceli and Curt Levey has made the rounds on TikTok, with people applauding Dimiceli for absolutely “roasting” Levey.
“I like women who are deep, and she just didn’t seem like a deep kinda person. She seemed more like the kind of woman who probably knows all the colours of lipstick, but couldn’t tell you who the Vice President of the United States was,” Levey told Woolery.
Offering her judgement of Levey from their first phone call, Dimiceli quipped: “I thought he had a monotone voice,...
The hit dating show, which lasted 11 seasons beginning in 1983 and running until 1994, followed blindly matched couples on their first dates, who would later reveal their first impressions to host Woolery in front of a live audience.
A particular clip of 1994 contestants Robin Dimiceli and Curt Levey has made the rounds on TikTok, with people applauding Dimiceli for absolutely “roasting” Levey.
“I like women who are deep, and she just didn’t seem like a deep kinda person. She seemed more like the kind of woman who probably knows all the colours of lipstick, but couldn’t tell you who the Vice President of the United States was,” Levey told Woolery.
Offering her judgement of Levey from their first phone call, Dimiceli quipped: “I thought he had a monotone voice,...
- 12/28/2022
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
An old episode of Chuck Woolery’s dating show Love Connection has resurfaced, and people can’t get enough of the two contestants.
The hit dating show, which lasted 11 seasons beginning in 1983 and running until 1994, followed blindly matched couples on their first dates, who would later reveal their first impressions to host Woolery in front of a live audience.
A particular clip of 1994 contestants Robin Dimiceli and Curt Levey has made the rounds on TikTok, with people applauding Dimiceli for absolutely “roasting” Levey.
“I like women who are deep, and she just didn’t seem like a deep kinda person. She seemed more like the kind of woman who probably knows all the colours of lipstick, but couldn’t tell you who the Vice President of the United States was,” Levey told Woolery.
Offering her judgement of Levey from their first phone call, Dimiceli quipped: “I thought he had a monotone voice,...
The hit dating show, which lasted 11 seasons beginning in 1983 and running until 1994, followed blindly matched couples on their first dates, who would later reveal their first impressions to host Woolery in front of a live audience.
A particular clip of 1994 contestants Robin Dimiceli and Curt Levey has made the rounds on TikTok, with people applauding Dimiceli for absolutely “roasting” Levey.
“I like women who are deep, and she just didn’t seem like a deep kinda person. She seemed more like the kind of woman who probably knows all the colours of lipstick, but couldn’t tell you who the Vice President of the United States was,” Levey told Woolery.
Offering her judgement of Levey from their first phone call, Dimiceli quipped: “I thought he had a monotone voice,...
- 12/27/2022
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Kieran Hodgson has spoken about walking a “real tightrope” with his satirical comedy Prince Andrew: The Musical.
The British actor stars as the recently evicted royal in his self-written Channel 4 biographical musical film, which takes a “light-hearted” approach to storying Prince Andrew’s “very public fall from grace”.
In a new interview with The Times, published on Tuesday 27 December, Hodgson discussed his source material, including the Prince’s latest scandal – his connection to the late Jeffrey Epstein – which led to him being stripped of his royal title.
“I thought it was more interesting to see the trajectory of decline and fall from a high starting point,” Hodgson explained. “To see the main characters’ attractive qualities in order to have their less attractive qualities thrown into relief.”
He continued: “The decisions Andrew has made are his own decisions, the mess he has got into is a very particular one. However,...
The British actor stars as the recently evicted royal in his self-written Channel 4 biographical musical film, which takes a “light-hearted” approach to storying Prince Andrew’s “very public fall from grace”.
In a new interview with The Times, published on Tuesday 27 December, Hodgson discussed his source material, including the Prince’s latest scandal – his connection to the late Jeffrey Epstein – which led to him being stripped of his royal title.
“I thought it was more interesting to see the trajectory of decline and fall from a high starting point,” Hodgson explained. “To see the main characters’ attractive qualities in order to have their less attractive qualities thrown into relief.”
He continued: “The decisions Andrew has made are his own decisions, the mess he has got into is a very particular one. However,...
- 12/27/2022
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Film
The Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas special has aired – and viewers are not happy.
The series, which is based on the popular theatre show and book series, stars Brendan O’Carroll as Agnes Brown, a mother to six children in Dublin.
The Christmas episode – titled “Shining Mammy” – aired on Sunday night (25 December). In it, unlucky-in-love daughter Cathy (Jennifer Gibney) begins dating a strange Englishman, who Agnes’s friend believes might be a vampire.
The episode has been slated by viewers, with many posting criticisms of the sitcom on Twitter when it was broadcast at 10.25pm on Christmas Day.
“Mrs Brown’s Boys should be removed from existence,” wrote one person.
“This Christmas, I am thankful for my wife, my daughter and living in a country in which nobody watches Mrs Brown’s Boys,” said someone else.
A third person wrote: “I used to love Mrs Brown’s Boys but then it got worse over...
The series, which is based on the popular theatre show and book series, stars Brendan O’Carroll as Agnes Brown, a mother to six children in Dublin.
The Christmas episode – titled “Shining Mammy” – aired on Sunday night (25 December). In it, unlucky-in-love daughter Cathy (Jennifer Gibney) begins dating a strange Englishman, who Agnes’s friend believes might be a vampire.
The episode has been slated by viewers, with many posting criticisms of the sitcom on Twitter when it was broadcast at 10.25pm on Christmas Day.
“Mrs Brown’s Boys should be removed from existence,” wrote one person.
“This Christmas, I am thankful for my wife, my daughter and living in a country in which nobody watches Mrs Brown’s Boys,” said someone else.
A third person wrote: “I used to love Mrs Brown’s Boys but then it got worse over...
- 12/27/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
The Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas special has aired – and viewers are not happy.
The series, which is based on the popular theatre show and book series, stars Brendan O’Carroll as Agnes Brown, a mother to six children in Dublin.
The Christmas episode – titled “Shining Mammy” – aired on Sunday night (25 December). In it, unlucky-in-love daughter Cathy (Jennifer Gibney) begins dating a strange Englishman, who Agnes’s friend believes might be a vampire.
The episode has been slated by viewers, with many posting criticisms of the sitcom on Twitter when it was broadcast at 10.25pm on Christmas Day.
“Mrs Brown’s Boys should be removed from existence,” wrote one person.
“This Christmas, I am thankful for my wife, my daughter and living in a country in which nobody watches Mrs Brown’s Boys,” said someone else.
A third person wrote: “I used to love Mrs Brown’s Boys but then it got worse over...
The series, which is based on the popular theatre show and book series, stars Brendan O’Carroll as Agnes Brown, a mother to six children in Dublin.
The Christmas episode – titled “Shining Mammy” – aired on Sunday night (25 December). In it, unlucky-in-love daughter Cathy (Jennifer Gibney) begins dating a strange Englishman, who Agnes’s friend believes might be a vampire.
The episode has been slated by viewers, with many posting criticisms of the sitcom on Twitter when it was broadcast at 10.25pm on Christmas Day.
“Mrs Brown’s Boys should be removed from existence,” wrote one person.
“This Christmas, I am thankful for my wife, my daughter and living in a country in which nobody watches Mrs Brown’s Boys,” said someone else.
A third person wrote: “I used to love Mrs Brown’s Boys but then it got worse over...
- 12/27/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Ben Shapiro has found himself the subject of widespread mockery after sharing a lengthy diatribe about Rian Johnson’s film Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.
The conservative pundit shared a 17-post thread on Twitter on Boxing Day, where he attacked both the writing and Johnson’s political leanings.
“I regret to inform you that Glass Onion is actively bad,” he announced.
Shapiro then proceeded to detail why he had been so offended by the Netflix film, sharing a number of spoilers along the way.
Spoilers for Glass Onion follow...
“Rian Johnson’s politics is as lazy as his writing,” he wrote. “His take on the universe is that Elon Musk is a bad and stupid man, and that anyone who likes him – in media, politics, or tech – is being paid off by him.”
Fans have already drawn comparisons between Edward Norton’s tech bro CEO character Miles Bron and Twitter owner Elon Musk.
The conservative pundit shared a 17-post thread on Twitter on Boxing Day, where he attacked both the writing and Johnson’s political leanings.
“I regret to inform you that Glass Onion is actively bad,” he announced.
Shapiro then proceeded to detail why he had been so offended by the Netflix film, sharing a number of spoilers along the way.
Spoilers for Glass Onion follow...
“Rian Johnson’s politics is as lazy as his writing,” he wrote. “His take on the universe is that Elon Musk is a bad and stupid man, and that anyone who likes him – in media, politics, or tech – is being paid off by him.”
Fans have already drawn comparisons between Edward Norton’s tech bro CEO character Miles Bron and Twitter owner Elon Musk.
- 12/27/2022
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - Film
American singer Lizzo was moved to tears after flutist James Galway wished her a Merry Christmas.
Lizzo, who is also an avid flute player, was sent a personal message from the 83-year-old.
In the special video, which Lizzo shared on her Instagram story, Galway played a version of “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” on his flute.
He then went on to pay personal tribute to the star, in which he said he was her “number one fan”, CBS news reports.
Lizzo also posted another video on her Instagram, captioned “My reaction”.
In the video, the “Juice” singer is moved to tears before saying: “Is that f***ing James Galway?”
Galway OBE is a flute player from Belfast. He established a successful international career as a solo flute player and was nicknamed The Man with the Golden Flute.
Lizzo is also a classically trained flute player. Earlier this year she...
Lizzo, who is also an avid flute player, was sent a personal message from the 83-year-old.
In the special video, which Lizzo shared on her Instagram story, Galway played a version of “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” on his flute.
He then went on to pay personal tribute to the star, in which he said he was her “number one fan”, CBS news reports.
Lizzo also posted another video on her Instagram, captioned “My reaction”.
In the video, the “Juice” singer is moved to tears before saying: “Is that f***ing James Galway?”
Galway OBE is a flute player from Belfast. He established a successful international career as a solo flute player and was nicknamed The Man with the Golden Flute.
Lizzo is also a classically trained flute player. Earlier this year she...
- 12/27/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
Olivia Colman has reflected on filming sex scenes with co-star Micheal Ward in the new movie Empire of Light.
The romantic drama from 1917 director Sam Mendes is set in Margate in the 1980s, and stars Colman, 48, as a cinema manager, Hilary, who develops a relationship with a ticket-seller, Stephen, played by Ward, 25.
Speaking in a new episode of The Graham Norton Show that will be broadcast on New Year’s Eve, Colman said: “There was one particular moment when I was astride Micheal in a compromising and slightly embarrassing situation and he said, ‘It’s my mum’s birthday today.’ When he said she was 43, I was like, ‘Ok, stop talking!’”
Ward, whose break-out role came in the 2018 crime drama Blue Story, said of working with Colman: “It was an amazing experience. It was incredible just to share the same space. I learnt so much about being a real person...
The romantic drama from 1917 director Sam Mendes is set in Margate in the 1980s, and stars Colman, 48, as a cinema manager, Hilary, who develops a relationship with a ticket-seller, Stephen, played by Ward, 25.
Speaking in a new episode of The Graham Norton Show that will be broadcast on New Year’s Eve, Colman said: “There was one particular moment when I was astride Micheal in a compromising and slightly embarrassing situation and he said, ‘It’s my mum’s birthday today.’ When he said she was 43, I was like, ‘Ok, stop talking!’”
Ward, whose break-out role came in the 2018 crime drama Blue Story, said of working with Colman: “It was an amazing experience. It was incredible just to share the same space. I learnt so much about being a real person...
- 12/27/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Margot Robbie has been defended by fans after the star was seemingly blamed for the new movie Babylon being a flop at the box office.
The new movie from Oscar-winning La La Land director Damien Chazelle chronicles the rise and fall of numerous characters during Hollywood’s transition from silent to sound films in the late 1920s.
It also stars Brad Pitt, Diego Calva, Jean Smart, Jovan Adepo, and Li Jun Li.
Despite the movie having a budget of 80m (£66.2m), it bombed at the US domestic box office this past weekend with a 5.3m (£4.3m) four-day start.
While some have put these figures down to the winter storm sweeping across the US and mixed early reviews, there have been some headlines and posts singling out one of its stars: Robbie.
“Margot Robbie flopped with Amsterdam and now Babylon,” wrote one person on social media, whole another headline read: “Margot Robbie’s latest movie,...
The new movie from Oscar-winning La La Land director Damien Chazelle chronicles the rise and fall of numerous characters during Hollywood’s transition from silent to sound films in the late 1920s.
It also stars Brad Pitt, Diego Calva, Jean Smart, Jovan Adepo, and Li Jun Li.
Despite the movie having a budget of 80m (£66.2m), it bombed at the US domestic box office this past weekend with a 5.3m (£4.3m) four-day start.
While some have put these figures down to the winter storm sweeping across the US and mixed early reviews, there have been some headlines and posts singling out one of its stars: Robbie.
“Margot Robbie flopped with Amsterdam and now Babylon,” wrote one person on social media, whole another headline read: “Margot Robbie’s latest movie,...
- 12/27/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
ITV has released the first look at Maya Jama as the new host of Love Island.
In October, Jama was announced as the reality show’s new presenter after Laura Whitmoreannounced her departure earlier this year.
Jama will make hewr debut for the winter version of the series, which will launch in Sotuh Africa in January 2023.
The brief teaser trailer will debut during the Boxing Day broadcast of Emmerdale.
In a statement about her appointment, Jama previously said: “I’ve always been such a massive Love Island fan and I’m so excited to be hosting one of the nation’s favourite shows!
“I can’t wait to get into the Villa to meet all of the Islanders.”
ITV executive Paul Mortimer also shared high anticipation for Jama to begin the presenting role, describing her as “cool, charming and charismatic”.
His statement read: “Finding a new host to follow the...
In October, Jama was announced as the reality show’s new presenter after Laura Whitmoreannounced her departure earlier this year.
Jama will make hewr debut for the winter version of the series, which will launch in Sotuh Africa in January 2023.
The brief teaser trailer will debut during the Boxing Day broadcast of Emmerdale.
In a statement about her appointment, Jama previously said: “I’ve always been such a massive Love Island fan and I’m so excited to be hosting one of the nation’s favourite shows!
“I can’t wait to get into the Villa to meet all of the Islanders.”
ITV executive Paul Mortimer also shared high anticipation for Jama to begin the presenting role, describing her as “cool, charming and charismatic”.
His statement read: “Finding a new host to follow the...
- 12/26/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
The Christmas Day TV ratings have been revealed, unveiling the 15 most-watched broadcasts.
With a showing on multiple channels, King Charles III’s first Christmas speech, following the death of the Queen earlier this year, topped the list with 10.72m viewers.
Following behind was BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing, Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel and Call the Midwife, with 5.44m, 4.81m and 4.49m viewers, respectively.
The BBC was also in the fifth olace with the premiere of Guy Ritchie’s live-action version of Aladdin, which was watched by 4.39m.
Elsewhere, Danny Dyer’s departure from EastEnders saw the BBC soap beat ITV1’s Coronation Street and Emmerdale in the ratings.
Other shows to feature in the top 15 included the final ever episode of Doc Martin and the BBC’s comedy shows Ghosts and Mrs Brown’s Boys, the latter of which The Independent called “worse than cranberry sauce” in a two-star review.
With a showing on multiple channels, King Charles III’s first Christmas speech, following the death of the Queen earlier this year, topped the list with 10.72m viewers.
Following behind was BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing, Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel and Call the Midwife, with 5.44m, 4.81m and 4.49m viewers, respectively.
The BBC was also in the fifth olace with the premiere of Guy Ritchie’s live-action version of Aladdin, which was watched by 4.39m.
Elsewhere, Danny Dyer’s departure from EastEnders saw the BBC soap beat ITV1’s Coronation Street and Emmerdale in the ratings.
Other shows to feature in the top 15 included the final ever episode of Doc Martin and the BBC’s comedy shows Ghosts and Mrs Brown’s Boys, the latter of which The Independent called “worse than cranberry sauce” in a two-star review.
- 12/26/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Hallmark Channel star Lacey Chabert has addressed Candance Cameron Bure’s controversial criticism of network’s Christmas movies.
Full House star Bure drew criticism in November after saying that her new employers, the channel Great American Family, would keep “traditional marriage at the core” shortly after the announcement of Hallmark’s first film centred on an LGBTQ+ marriage.
She added in an interview with The Wall Street Journal that a “change of leadership” had made Hallmark “a completely different network than when I started”.
Now, Mean Girls actor Chabert, who rose to fame in 1990s series Party of Five, has defended Hallmark, saying that she has “found a real home” with the channel.
“Any shift I’ve felt has been embracing our creative ideas, and it’s my responsibility to the audience who continue to tune into my movies that I give the best I have to offer,” Chabert said.
Full House star Bure drew criticism in November after saying that her new employers, the channel Great American Family, would keep “traditional marriage at the core” shortly after the announcement of Hallmark’s first film centred on an LGBTQ+ marriage.
She added in an interview with The Wall Street Journal that a “change of leadership” had made Hallmark “a completely different network than when I started”.
Now, Mean Girls actor Chabert, who rose to fame in 1990s series Party of Five, has defended Hallmark, saying that she has “found a real home” with the channel.
“Any shift I’ve felt has been embracing our creative ideas, and it’s my responsibility to the audience who continue to tune into my movies that I give the best I have to offer,” Chabert said.
- 12/26/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
TV viewers have been left in floods of tears after watching the BBC’s adaptation of The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse.
Based on Charlie Mackesy’s 2019 illustrated book about a group of animals who become unlikely friends, the half-hour TV adaptation featured an all-star voice cast including Idris Elba and Tom Hollander.
The episode aired on Christmas Eve on BBC One, with viewers admitting that the “beautiful” and simple animation “broke” them.
“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse on @BBCOne is absolutely stunning,” one viewer tweeted. “What beautiful, beautiful animation. I’m a blubbering wreck.”
“A classic that is sure to be a regular Christmas staple. Not ashamed to say that I cried like a baby!” another commenter wrote.
One viewer called it “the most beautiful thing you’ll watch this Christmas”, while another said it was “heart-warming and life-affirming stuff”.
“â.â.Spellbinding,...
Based on Charlie Mackesy’s 2019 illustrated book about a group of animals who become unlikely friends, the half-hour TV adaptation featured an all-star voice cast including Idris Elba and Tom Hollander.
The episode aired on Christmas Eve on BBC One, with viewers admitting that the “beautiful” and simple animation “broke” them.
“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse on @BBCOne is absolutely stunning,” one viewer tweeted. “What beautiful, beautiful animation. I’m a blubbering wreck.”
“A classic that is sure to be a regular Christmas staple. Not ashamed to say that I cried like a baby!” another commenter wrote.
One viewer called it “the most beautiful thing you’ll watch this Christmas”, while another said it was “heart-warming and life-affirming stuff”.
“â.â.Spellbinding,...
- 12/26/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
TV viewers have been left in floods of tears after watching the BBC’s adaptation of The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse.
Based on Charlie Mackesy’s 2019 illustrated book about a group of animals who become unlikely friends, the half-hour TV adaptation featured an all-star voice cast including Idris Elba and Tom Hollander.
The episode aired on Christmas Eve on BBC One, with viewers admitting that the “beautiful” and simple animation “broke” them.
“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse on @BBCOne is absolutely stunning,” one viewer tweeted. “What beautiful, beautiful animation. I’m a blubbering wreck.”
“A classic that is sure to be a regular Christmas staple. Not ashamed to say that I cried like a baby!” another commenter wrote.
One viewer called it “the most beautiful thing you’ll watch this Christmas”, while another said it was “heart-warming and life-affirming stuff”.
“â.â.Spellbinding,...
Based on Charlie Mackesy’s 2019 illustrated book about a group of animals who become unlikely friends, the half-hour TV adaptation featured an all-star voice cast including Idris Elba and Tom Hollander.
The episode aired on Christmas Eve on BBC One, with viewers admitting that the “beautiful” and simple animation “broke” them.
“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse on @BBCOne is absolutely stunning,” one viewer tweeted. “What beautiful, beautiful animation. I’m a blubbering wreck.”
“A classic that is sure to be a regular Christmas staple. Not ashamed to say that I cried like a baby!” another commenter wrote.
One viewer called it “the most beautiful thing you’ll watch this Christmas”, while another said it was “heart-warming and life-affirming stuff”.
“â.â.Spellbinding,...
- 12/26/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Christina Ricci has discussed the Netflix series Wednesday starring Jenna Ortega.
Ricci, 42, began her career playing the sullen Addams family daughter, Wednesday, adapted from the characters created by cartoonist Charles Adams.
The actor was nine years old when she portrayed the deadpan child in two live-action Addams Family films, released in 1991 and 1993.
Most recently, she starred in the Netflix series Wednesday, which sees 20-year-old Ortega take on the iconic role once played by Ricci.
This time, Ricci played the role of Ms Thornhill, a teacher at Wednesday’s school, Nevermore Academy.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Ricci spoke briefly about the reboot.
Asked whether it is weird to still speak about the character decades after she played her, Ricci answered: “I don’t mind. I talk about her in almost every interview!”
Speaking about Netflix’s newly released series, she said: “But I think it’s important to...
Ricci, 42, began her career playing the sullen Addams family daughter, Wednesday, adapted from the characters created by cartoonist Charles Adams.
The actor was nine years old when she portrayed the deadpan child in two live-action Addams Family films, released in 1991 and 1993.
Most recently, she starred in the Netflix series Wednesday, which sees 20-year-old Ortega take on the iconic role once played by Ricci.
This time, Ricci played the role of Ms Thornhill, a teacher at Wednesday’s school, Nevermore Academy.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Ricci spoke briefly about the reboot.
Asked whether it is weird to still speak about the character decades after she played her, Ricci answered: “I don’t mind. I talk about her in almost every interview!”
Speaking about Netflix’s newly released series, she said: “But I think it’s important to...
- 12/26/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Fans have rallied around Eve Hewson after the actor spoke out about the “privilege” of having a famous father, U2 star Bono.
Hewson, 31, made her television debut in the 2014 series The Knick by Steven Soderbergh.
She has since starred in a number of TV shows and films, including the critically acclaimed comedy series Bad Sisters, and last year’s Behind Her Eyes on Netflix.
In recent weeks, there has been much discussion about “nepotism babies” – a term used to describe the many celebrities descended from establishment stars.
Examples include Johnny Depp’s daughter Lily-Rose, Denzel Washington’s son David, and Stranger Things star Maya Hawke who is the daughter of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman.
Hewson is the daughter of the singer Bono and activist and businesswoman Alison Hewson.
Writing on Twitter on Saturday (24 December), the actor addressed the ongoing conversation surrounding nepotism babies.
“For those of you who have just tuned into my existence,...
Hewson, 31, made her television debut in the 2014 series The Knick by Steven Soderbergh.
She has since starred in a number of TV shows and films, including the critically acclaimed comedy series Bad Sisters, and last year’s Behind Her Eyes on Netflix.
In recent weeks, there has been much discussion about “nepotism babies” – a term used to describe the many celebrities descended from establishment stars.
Examples include Johnny Depp’s daughter Lily-Rose, Denzel Washington’s son David, and Stranger Things star Maya Hawke who is the daughter of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman.
Hewson is the daughter of the singer Bono and activist and businesswoman Alison Hewson.
Writing on Twitter on Saturday (24 December), the actor addressed the ongoing conversation surrounding nepotism babies.
“For those of you who have just tuned into my existence,...
- 12/26/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Strictly Come Dancing fans delighted by unexpected Gavin and Stacey reunion during Christmas special
Strictly Come Dancing fans were delighted by an unexpected Gavin and Stacey reunion during the show’s Christmas special.
This year’s Strictly Christmas special aired on Sunday (25 December), with Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell taking home the top prize together with her professional partner Kai Widdrington.
Elsewhere during the episode, fans were surprised to see both Larry Lamb and Alison Steadman on screen.
Lamb, 75, and Steadman, 76, played Mick and Pam Shipman, respectively, in the hit show Gavin and Stacey.
While it was only Lamb who was participating as a contestant on the BBC programme, Steadman appeared in a video message to wish him luck on his performance.
The actor was paired with professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova. They performed an American Smooth, which scored a total of 31 points.
Prior to the scores being announced, however, Lamb received a surprise message from his former co-star.
“Hi Larry! Hi! Congratulations on your American Smooth!
This year’s Strictly Christmas special aired on Sunday (25 December), with Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell taking home the top prize together with her professional partner Kai Widdrington.
Elsewhere during the episode, fans were surprised to see both Larry Lamb and Alison Steadman on screen.
Lamb, 75, and Steadman, 76, played Mick and Pam Shipman, respectively, in the hit show Gavin and Stacey.
While it was only Lamb who was participating as a contestant on the BBC programme, Steadman appeared in a video message to wish him luck on his performance.
The actor was paired with professional dancer Nadiya Bychkova. They performed an American Smooth, which scored a total of 31 points.
Prior to the scores being announced, however, Lamb received a surprise message from his former co-star.
“Hi Larry! Hi! Congratulations on your American Smooth!
- 12/26/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Over the past few years, a new Christmas ritual has entered my life. I find it easily the most irksome of them all, far outstripping cranberry sauce and Whamageddon. I refer, of course, to the duty that falls to me to review Mrs Brown’s Boys, which never fails to disappointment me in its abject poverty of ambition.
But this year, in honour of the recently departed Victor Lewis-Smith, the brilliant satirist and the finest television critic of our times, I thought I’d try to give Mrs Brown’s Boys a bit of a reappraisal. Lewis-Smith, you may recall, was not only a rare blend of the eloquent, the profane and the downright vicious, but an original thinker, and his take on Mrs Brown’s Boys lay far outside the consensus. He praised it because, in his words, every scene in the “unashamedly Rabelaisian comedy ... brimmed over with so much innocent joy...
But this year, in honour of the recently departed Victor Lewis-Smith, the brilliant satirist and the finest television critic of our times, I thought I’d try to give Mrs Brown’s Boys a bit of a reappraisal. Lewis-Smith, you may recall, was not only a rare blend of the eloquent, the profane and the downright vicious, but an original thinker, and his take on Mrs Brown’s Boys lay far outside the consensus. He praised it because, in his words, every scene in the “unashamedly Rabelaisian comedy ... brimmed over with so much innocent joy...
- 12/26/2022
- by Sean O'Grady
- The Independent - TV
Brendan O’Carroll has said that it gives him “goosebumps” knowing Mrs Brown’s Boys has become part of many household’s Christmas traditions.
The Irish comedian writes and stars in the hugely divisive BBC comedy as matriarch Agnes Brown.
The show will return this Christmas Day with an episode titled “Shining Mammy”.
Speaking to The Sun, O’Carroll said that it was a joy to know the show had become a Christmas staple.
“I absolutely love it - I get goosebumps that Mrs Brown has become part of Christmas,” he said.
“That’s what people who come to the show say – ‘Ah, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Mrs Brown.’ You’re kinda going, ‘Oh my God, we established that.’”
O’Carroll also shared that the team were hoping to film a four-episode miniseries next year as part of the BBC’s centenary celebrations, as well as two more Christmas specials.
The Irish comedian writes and stars in the hugely divisive BBC comedy as matriarch Agnes Brown.
The show will return this Christmas Day with an episode titled “Shining Mammy”.
Speaking to The Sun, O’Carroll said that it was a joy to know the show had become a Christmas staple.
“I absolutely love it - I get goosebumps that Mrs Brown has become part of Christmas,” he said.
“That’s what people who come to the show say – ‘Ah, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Mrs Brown.’ You’re kinda going, ‘Oh my God, we established that.’”
O’Carroll also shared that the team were hoping to film a four-episode miniseries next year as part of the BBC’s centenary celebrations, as well as two more Christmas specials.
- 12/24/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
The BBC has unveiled its Christmas TV line-up for the 2022 festive season.
From brand new shows to festive editions of fan favourites, there is plenty of programming on offer across the genres of drama, comedy, entertainment and more.
The biggest highlights this year include the “life-affirming” Scottish drama Mayflies, a tale of male friendship based on Andrew O’Hagan’s 2021 novel, starring Martin Compston, Tony Curran and Ashley Jensen. Sally Wainwright’s Bafta-winning Happy Valley also returns to the BBC for its much-anticipated third and final series, after a six-year hiatus, with Sarah Lancashire back as Sgt Catherine Cawood.
Viewers will be treated to the final chapter of the epic trilogy His Dark Materials, and Strike: Troubled Blood, which sees Cormoran Strike (Tom Burke) visit family in Cornwall when he’s called on to solve a mysterious cold case.
In the world of comedy, fans will have plenty to look forward...
From brand new shows to festive editions of fan favourites, there is plenty of programming on offer across the genres of drama, comedy, entertainment and more.
The biggest highlights this year include the “life-affirming” Scottish drama Mayflies, a tale of male friendship based on Andrew O’Hagan’s 2021 novel, starring Martin Compston, Tony Curran and Ashley Jensen. Sally Wainwright’s Bafta-winning Happy Valley also returns to the BBC for its much-anticipated third and final series, after a six-year hiatus, with Sarah Lancashire back as Sgt Catherine Cawood.
Viewers will be treated to the final chapter of the epic trilogy His Dark Materials, and Strike: Troubled Blood, which sees Cormoran Strike (Tom Burke) visit family in Cornwall when he’s called on to solve a mysterious cold case.
In the world of comedy, fans will have plenty to look forward...
- 11/29/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Brendan O’Carroll has said that he isn’t fazed by accusations that his show Mrs Brown’s Boys is transphobic.
The Irish actor has starred as matriarch Agnes Brown in the sitcom since 2011, having originally imagined the character for a radio play in 1992.
Over the years, Mrs Brown’s Boys has been near-universally panned by critics, with The Independent’s Sean O’Grady writing that the 2021 Christmas special was “a hellish place where wit has gone to die”.
However, the show has remained hugely popular, with the show returning for a Christmas special once again this year.
Speaking to The Sun, O’Carroll was asked about critics who apparently claim that the show is transphobic for featuring the actor in a female role.
“I don’t think about them, I write the show I write,” he responded.
“I don’t ever think of myself as being a man playing a woman – when Mrs...
The Irish actor has starred as matriarch Agnes Brown in the sitcom since 2011, having originally imagined the character for a radio play in 1992.
Over the years, Mrs Brown’s Boys has been near-universally panned by critics, with The Independent’s Sean O’Grady writing that the 2021 Christmas special was “a hellish place where wit has gone to die”.
However, the show has remained hugely popular, with the show returning for a Christmas special once again this year.
Speaking to The Sun, O’Carroll was asked about critics who apparently claim that the show is transphobic for featuring the actor in a female role.
“I don’t think about them, I write the show I write,” he responded.
“I don’t ever think of myself as being a man playing a woman – when Mrs...
- 10/6/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
How old is Tyler Perry’s spitfire matron Madea? Her age isn’t specified (I’d say she’s in her mid-70s), but whatever it is she’s that many years young. She has a sneaky-dog irascibility that won’t quit. And Tyler Perry can’t quit her. He had hinted that “A Madea Family Funeral,” in 2019, might be the last Madea outing. But the pandemic changed his mind. I say that with or without it, Perry would have returned to Madea, because she’s more than his greatest hit — she’s his unleashed id, the character he’s addicted to playing because she expresses so many of his angels and demons.
Of course, she’s also an eternal crowd-pleaser. The first Tyler Perry movie, “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” (which included an appearance by Madea), was released 17 years ago today. At the time, he’d already been doing Madea onstage for years.
Of course, she’s also an eternal crowd-pleaser. The first Tyler Perry movie, “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” (which included an appearance by Madea), was released 17 years ago today. At the time, he’d already been doing Madea onstage for years.
- 2/26/2022
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
The “Madea” movies have only intermittently done right by the character of Madea. Tyler Perry’s creation Mabel “Madea” Simmons is an outrageously anarchic agent of chaos that, until now, has never fit particularly comfortably in Perry’s didactic melodramas. (Imagine Bugs Bunny getting stuck in the world of “Davey & Goliath.”)
With “A Madea Homecoming,” Perry has — probably for the first time since “Madea’s Big Happy Family” — created a vehicle that lets Madea be Madea. No longer required by Perry the executive producer to tone down the material for a family-friendly PG-13 rating, Perry the writer-director-actor lets Madea be the blunt-talking, gun-toting, no-nonsense Thc enthusiast that the character was always meant to be.
Madea’s extended family — including Uncle Joe (also Perry), Aunt Bam (Cassi Davis Patton), Mr. Brown (David Mann), and Cora (Tamela Mann) — gathers at her house for the graduation of Tim, who’s the valedictorian at a never-named Hbcu.
With “A Madea Homecoming,” Perry has — probably for the first time since “Madea’s Big Happy Family” — created a vehicle that lets Madea be Madea. No longer required by Perry the executive producer to tone down the material for a family-friendly PG-13 rating, Perry the writer-director-actor lets Madea be the blunt-talking, gun-toting, no-nonsense Thc enthusiast that the character was always meant to be.
Madea’s extended family — including Uncle Joe (also Perry), Aunt Bam (Cassi Davis Patton), Mr. Brown (David Mann), and Cora (Tamela Mann) — gathers at her house for the graduation of Tim, who’s the valedictorian at a never-named Hbcu.
- 2/25/2022
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
In 2019, Tyler Perry was ready to say goodbye to his iconic character Madea after the release of “A Madea Family Funeral.” But when the Covid-19 pandemic hit the next year, Perry realized that people needed some joy in their lives.
“There is just so much going on in the country right now with all the social and civil unrest and I wanted to do this movie to make people laugh,” Perry told Variety. “We all just need some laughter and I can’t wait for audiences globally to discover Madea for the first time.”
Perry celebrated the premiere of “A Madea Homecoming,” the latest Madea film and the first to premiere on Netflix, at L.A. Live in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Joining him were the cast of the family comedy, including Brendan O’Carroll, Brandon Black, Isha Blaaker, Jennifer Gibney, Candace Maxwell, Amani Atkinson and Geneva Maccarone.
“A Madea Homecoming...
“There is just so much going on in the country right now with all the social and civil unrest and I wanted to do this movie to make people laugh,” Perry told Variety. “We all just need some laughter and I can’t wait for audiences globally to discover Madea for the first time.”
Perry celebrated the premiere of “A Madea Homecoming,” the latest Madea film and the first to premiere on Netflix, at L.A. Live in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Joining him were the cast of the family comedy, including Brendan O’Carroll, Brandon Black, Isha Blaaker, Jennifer Gibney, Candace Maxwell, Amani Atkinson and Geneva Maccarone.
“A Madea Homecoming...
- 2/25/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Accepting others, and most importantly, themselves, for who they truly are is one of the most important elements in life. That vital theme is a major motivator in the British sitcom, ‘Mrs. Brown’s Boys,’ which was produced by BBC Scotland. Actor Brendan O’Carroll starred on, and created, the television show, on which he played his […]
The post Brendan O’Carroll is Protective of Family in Mrs. Brown’s Boys appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post Brendan O’Carroll is Protective of Family in Mrs. Brown’s Boys appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 5/7/2020
- by Karen Benardello
- ShockYa
UK producers Stephen McCrum (Mrs Brown’s Boys) and Simon Mayhew-Archer (This Country) are launching UK film and TV comedy outfit Camden Productions with backing from UK financier Great Point, we can reveal.
The duo most recently produced Daisy May Cooper and Charlie Cooper’s hit BBC series This Country, which recorded more than 52 million iPlayer requests as well as winning the 2018 BAFTA and Rts awards for Best Sitcom.
More from DeadlineLionsgate's New York Studio Complex Secures $40M Loan From Cit BankUK Company Great Point Media Hires VP Of Television SalesGreat Point Media Teams With U.S. Outfit Mc Credit Partners On Film & TV Fund
Comedy vet McCrum previously produced Brendan O’Carroll’s BAFTA-winning comedy series Mrs. Brown’s Boys, and the Universal Pictures/BBC Films movie adaptation of the same series which made more than $30M global.
Great Point’s backing will combine financial investment and consultancy. The deal was brokered by DoveTale Media,...
The duo most recently produced Daisy May Cooper and Charlie Cooper’s hit BBC series This Country, which recorded more than 52 million iPlayer requests as well as winning the 2018 BAFTA and Rts awards for Best Sitcom.
More from DeadlineLionsgate's New York Studio Complex Secures $40M Loan From Cit BankUK Company Great Point Media Hires VP Of Television SalesGreat Point Media Teams With U.S. Outfit Mc Credit Partners On Film & TV Fund
Comedy vet McCrum previously produced Brendan O’Carroll’s BAFTA-winning comedy series Mrs. Brown’s Boys, and the Universal Pictures/BBC Films movie adaptation of the same series which made more than $30M global.
Great Point’s backing will combine financial investment and consultancy. The deal was brokered by DoveTale Media,...
- 4/16/2020
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Mrs Brown’s Boys creator Brendan O’Carroll is piloting a new comedy about a group of Irish peacekeepers patrolling the border between Lebanon and Israel.
O’Carroll told Deadline that The Lebanese Outpost was one of a number of projects that he was working on. The pilot comes a year after it emerged that the Irish comedian had begun developing the project for BBC One.
“I’m doing a pilot at the moment of another thing that I’m doing called Lebanese Outpost and there’s a couple of projects that I’m working on. In order to go back and do a [full] series [of Mrs. Brown’s Boys], I’d have to drop those,” he told Deadline at the Winter TCA Press tour.
This comes as the latest Christmas specials of Mrs. Brown’s Boys is heading exclusively to BritBox in the U.S. The two specials, which aired on Christmas...
O’Carroll told Deadline that The Lebanese Outpost was one of a number of projects that he was working on. The pilot comes a year after it emerged that the Irish comedian had begun developing the project for BBC One.
“I’m doing a pilot at the moment of another thing that I’m doing called Lebanese Outpost and there’s a couple of projects that I’m working on. In order to go back and do a [full] series [of Mrs. Brown’s Boys], I’d have to drop those,” he told Deadline at the Winter TCA Press tour.
This comes as the latest Christmas specials of Mrs. Brown’s Boys is heading exclusively to BritBox in the U.S. The two specials, which aired on Christmas...
- 1/15/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
BritBox, BBC Studios and ITV’s streaming service in North America, has added several co-productions, live specials, renewals and short series to its lineup, BritBox president Soumya Sriraman announced Tuesday at the Television Critics Assn. gathering in Pasadena.
Among the shows coming to the service are “A Confession,” an original drama from Jeff Pope, starring Martin Freeman (“Sherlock”) and Imelda Staunton (“Vera Drake”), about divergent paths to justice for two women when the confession of a violent criminal is ruled inadmissible; the six-part mystery series “Wild Bill,” starring Rob Lowe; “Sister Boniface,” about a crime-solving nun, a spin-off of the mystery series “Father Brown”; a co-production with ITV from Mammoth Screen, “McDonald and Dodds,” about a pair of mismatched police detectives, starring Jason Watkins; and Mike Bartlett’s three-part psychological thriller “Sticks and Stones,” starring Ken Nwosu.
During the TCA session, Sriraman also led panel discussions on BritBox’s exclusive season 10 return of “Vera,...
Among the shows coming to the service are “A Confession,” an original drama from Jeff Pope, starring Martin Freeman (“Sherlock”) and Imelda Staunton (“Vera Drake”), about divergent paths to justice for two women when the confession of a violent criminal is ruled inadmissible; the six-part mystery series “Wild Bill,” starring Rob Lowe; “Sister Boniface,” about a crime-solving nun, a spin-off of the mystery series “Father Brown”; a co-production with ITV from Mammoth Screen, “McDonald and Dodds,” about a pair of mismatched police detectives, starring Jason Watkins; and Mike Bartlett’s three-part psychological thriller “Sticks and Stones,” starring Ken Nwosu.
During the TCA session, Sriraman also led panel discussions on BritBox’s exclusive season 10 return of “Vera,...
- 1/14/2020
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
UK TV ratings roundup – data supplied by Barb
Big Brother: Timebomb's latest eviction and shock twist peaked with 1.36 million (7.4%) viewers at 10pm on Friday (May 29) evening.
An average audience of 1.04 million (5.1%) watched the show in its entirety, while a further 128k (1%) watched on Channel 5+1.
Big Brother's Bit on the Side was seen by 795k (6%) at 10.30pm, followed by 465k (5.4%) for live footage from the house.
Unsurprisingly, the fifth and last Britain's Got Talent semi-final was the highest-rated show of the evening, entertaining 8.02 million viewers (39.2%) from 7.30pm.
An average audience of 6.78 million (32.1%) watched the Britain's Got Talent results show at 9.30pm.
Elsewhere, BBC One's evening kicked off with 3.30 million (19.5%) for The One Show at 7pm, Room 101 was seen by 1.93 million (9.6%) at 8pm, followed by 1.72 million (8.2%) for The Vicar of Dibley at 8.30pm.
Have I Got News for You continued with 3.58 million (16.4%) viewers at 8.30pm, while Mrs. Brown's Boys...
Big Brother: Timebomb's latest eviction and shock twist peaked with 1.36 million (7.4%) viewers at 10pm on Friday (May 29) evening.
An average audience of 1.04 million (5.1%) watched the show in its entirety, while a further 128k (1%) watched on Channel 5+1.
Big Brother's Bit on the Side was seen by 795k (6%) at 10.30pm, followed by 465k (5.4%) for live footage from the house.
Unsurprisingly, the fifth and last Britain's Got Talent semi-final was the highest-rated show of the evening, entertaining 8.02 million viewers (39.2%) from 7.30pm.
An average audience of 6.78 million (32.1%) watched the Britain's Got Talent results show at 9.30pm.
Elsewhere, BBC One's evening kicked off with 3.30 million (19.5%) for The One Show at 7pm, Room 101 was seen by 1.93 million (9.6%) at 8pm, followed by 1.72 million (8.2%) for The Vicar of Dibley at 8.30pm.
Have I Got News for You continued with 3.58 million (16.4%) viewers at 8.30pm, while Mrs. Brown's Boys...
- 5/30/2015
- Digital Spy
Have I Got News for You was Friday's (May 1) highest-rated show outside of soaps.
Hosted by Alexander Armstrong, the topical panel show attracted an average audience of 4.07 million (19.8%) from 9pm.
BBC One's evening began with 3.24 (19.1%) for The One Show at 7pm, followed by 3.11 million (16.9%) for A Question of Sport at 7.30pm.
A repeat showing of Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out filled the void left by Masterchef at 8.35pm, and managed to secure an average audience of 2.12 million (10.9%).
Mrs. Brown's Boys entertained 2.88 million (14.4%) at 9.30pm, while The Graham Norton Show secured ratings of 2.72 million (23.1%) at 10.40pm.
Over on ITV, Weekend Escapes with Warwick Davis was seen by 2.36 million (12.5%) at 8pm, while Slow Train Through Africa with Griff Rhys Jones entertained 2.05 million (10.2%) at 9pm.
BBC Two's evening was dominated by Live Snooker: The World Championship coverage from 6.30pm until 9pm. The event drew an average audience of 1.14 million...
Hosted by Alexander Armstrong, the topical panel show attracted an average audience of 4.07 million (19.8%) from 9pm.
BBC One's evening began with 3.24 (19.1%) for The One Show at 7pm, followed by 3.11 million (16.9%) for A Question of Sport at 7.30pm.
A repeat showing of Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out filled the void left by Masterchef at 8.35pm, and managed to secure an average audience of 2.12 million (10.9%).
Mrs. Brown's Boys entertained 2.88 million (14.4%) at 9.30pm, while The Graham Norton Show secured ratings of 2.72 million (23.1%) at 10.40pm.
Over on ITV, Weekend Escapes with Warwick Davis was seen by 2.36 million (12.5%) at 8pm, while Slow Train Through Africa with Griff Rhys Jones entertained 2.05 million (10.2%) at 9pm.
BBC Two's evening was dominated by Live Snooker: The World Championship coverage from 6.30pm until 9pm. The event drew an average audience of 1.14 million...
- 5/2/2015
- Digital Spy
Brendan O'Carroll will make 'Mrs. Brown's Boys' Christmas specials until 2020. The 59-year-old star of the hit BBC One comedy has revealed he has already received commissions for further episodes with the channel expecting him to continue writing them for at least the next five years. He said: ''I have been commissioned to write another two Christmas specials and the BBC are expecting Christmas specials up until 2020.'' The comedian stars as Irish matriarch Agnes Brown and admits the show could go on for many more years as his character can simply get older as he himself ages. He continued to the Daily Mirror...
- 1/2/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Brendan O'Carroll regrets not having children with Jennifer Gibney. The 'Mrs. Brown's Boys' star has children Danny, Fiona and Eric from his previous marriage to Doreen Dowdall but admits there were times when he and his second wife and co-star - whom he married in 2005 - thought about having their own. He shared: ''Jenny doesn't have children. Over the years there have been times when I would get a bit broody and she did too, but she was also step-mum to my children. ''I would have loved to have seen what a baby from me and Jen would be like and we...
- 12/31/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
Brendan O'Carroll regrets not having children with Jennifer Gibney. The 'Mrs. Brown's Boys' star has children Danny, Fiona and Eric from his previous marriage to Doreen Dowdall but admits there were times when he and his second wife and co-star - whom he married in 2005 - thought about having their own. He shared: ''Jenny doesn't have children. Over the years there have been times when I would get a bit broody and she did too, but she was also step-mum to my children. ''I would have loved to have seen what a baby from me and Jen would be like and we...
- 12/29/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
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