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From her moving performance as Jo Hamilton in Mr Bates vs the Post Office to her BAFTA-winning portrayal of Rosemary West in Appropriate Adult, Monica Dolan has a knack for disappearing into complex, rich roles. One of her most famous performances is in Sherwood, the BBC drama set in a Nottinghamshire mining community, still shaped by old tensions and fractured loyalties.

In the series, written and created by James Graham, she plays Ann Branson, a formidable and ruthless criminal matriarch who runs a drugs cartel in Ashfield alongside her husband Roy (Stephen Dillane), and is driven by a fierce desire to avenge her son’s murder.

Powerful and unpredictable, she is part of a new wave of gang-related violence at the centre of a complex feud between the Sparrows and the Bransons.

Talking about the role, Monica said she was immediately struck by the writing and the depth of the characters.

“I read three episodes of the script, and I thought they were extraordinary. It was like reading a George Eliot novel in the way that it slices through society. Every one of the characters is so different with their own unique voice,” she told the BBC.

"I think that Ann Branson differs not just from other characters that I’ve played, but from many characters I’ve seen." she added..

"She has absolute self-confidence. I don't know if it's because she's had her husband’s support since she was so young, but she really trusts herself. There aren't many people, even in life, that have that self-belief and the knowledge and intuition of what to do next when they’re faced with something."

Speaking to Yours.co.uk at the TV Choice Awards 2026, Monica also opened up about working closely with Lorraine Ashbourne, who plays Daphne Sparrow - her character’s biggest rival - and how differently they experienced one particularly intense filming day.

“Well I loved working alongside Lorraine Ashbourne, it was fantastic,” she said.

“It was quite funny because our big scene the day after The Welfare, Lorraine came in saying ‘Oh God, I’m really exhausted’, and I was like ‘yeah, I didn’t find it that stressful’,” she added.

“She had a million things to think about in that scene. She knew that the police were listening to her, her kids’ lives were on the line, and I was just walking in trying to see what she was up to, so yeah, it was quite fun.”

Monica also revealed the physical side of filming Sherwood, particularly the cold conditions and repeated water scenes that made parts of the shoot more challenging than expected.

“It was very cold,” she explained. “Because of me and the stunt person and all of the times that I had to be in the water there were lots and lots of pairs of jeans and lots of jumpers.”

“At the end, I only wish I’d said yes to all of the clothes as I could’ve taken them home and done my dog walking in them, so it would be like ‘tonight Ann Branson (my character), you’re walking the dog’,” she joked.

Away from TV, Monica has also appeared on stage in one of her latest projects, Mass, a powerful, emotionally charged play set in a quiet room within an Episcopal church.

Based on the 2021 film starring Ann Dowd and Jason Isaacs, it sees two couples meet in a church basement as they attempt to confront the devastating aftermath of a tragedy involving their children. The story follows them as they navigate grief, accountability and the difficult search for understanding in its aftermath.

“We are doing plays in London at the same time,” she said, referring to her friend and fellow actor Rosie Cavaleiro, who she attended the awards with.

Speaking about her production, she added: "Mine's at the Donmar. Paul Hilton's in it and it's directed by Carrie Cracknell, Lyndsey Marshal and Adeel Akhtar [from Sherwood series one] as well, so I'm very excited about that.”

Mass runs at the Donmar Warehouse in London from the 18th April to the 6th June 2026.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

When it comes to cleaning clothes, all of the lotions and potions can leave you feeling like you need a science degree to use your washing machine, especially when you're trying to decide between bio vs non-bio detergents.

It might seem confusing, but we're here to talk you through each option so you can make the best choice for your laundry needs, no matter if you're using a regular washing machine, a portable washing machine or hand-washing your garments.

Whether you're dealing with stubborn stains, sensitive skin, unpleasant food or sweat smells or just trying to make sense of all the labels, understanding the difference between biological and non-biological detergents can make laundry day a whole lot simpler. Plus, we’ll share a few helpful suggestions to point you in the right direction.

Bio vs non-bio laundry soap: What is the difference?

Put simply; biological detergents contain enzymes that actively break down dirt on fabric, common stains like food, sweat, and grease, making them highly effective at cleaning clothes, even at lower temperatures. Non-biological detergents, on the other hand, don’t include these enzymes, which makes them a gentler option - especially for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Benefits of bio detergent

Common stains like food, sweat, and grease are no match for biological detergents, which makes them highly effective at cleaning clothes and most everyday fabrics such as cottons, linens, and synthetics.

They’re effective even at lower temperatures, thanks to the enzymes they contain, which can help you save money over time by reducing energy use, extending the life of your washing machine and helping your clothes last longer compared to frequent high-temperature washes.

Benefits of non-bio detergent

Non-biological detergents don’t have enzymes, making them less harsh on fabrics and a gentler choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies. They tend to be the best option for those looking to avoid irritation. Many parents or carers also choose non-bio when washing clothes for babies or small children, as their skin is naturally more sensitive.

Additionally, non-bio is preferable for delicate fabrics like silk and wool, as they are made out of proteins that can be damaged by the enzymes in bio detergents (similarly to how they can break down food stains). So, you may find that these fabrics will wear out more quickly if you're washing them with bio detergent.

What are the different types of laundry detergent?

Now you know the difference between bio vs non-bio laundry soaps and detergents, it's time to introduce you to the different forms they come in:

Liquid detergent

Liquid detergent is one of the most popular options on the market. It’s especially effective on greasy or oily stains, making it ideal for everyday use.

Best for: Pre-treating stains, greasy or oily clothes.

Pros: Easy to measure, dissolves well in water, works well in both cold and hot water.

Cons: Can be messy or over-poured.

Powder detergent

Best for: General washing, especially for muddy or ground-in dirt.

Pros: Often cheaper per load, longer shelf life.

Cons: May not dissolve completely in cold water, can leave residue.

Laundry pods

Best for: Convenience and mess-free use.

Pros: Pre-measured, easy to store and use.

Cons: More expensive per load, hazardous if ingested (especially for kids or pets).

High-efficiency (HE) detergent

Best for: High-efficiency washers that use less water.

Pros: Low-sudsing, specially formulated for HE machines.

Cons: Regular detergent can't be used in HE machines, but HE detergent can be used in standard ones.

Eco-friendly / natural detergents

Best for: Sensitive skin, eco-conscious households.

Pros: Fewer harsh chemicals, biodegradable.

Cons: Sometimes more expensive, may not be as effective on tough stains.

Detergent sheets

Best for: Travel, minimalism, and zero-waste lifestyles.

Pros: Lightweight, dissolves completely, no plastic packaging.

Cons: May be less effective on heavy loads or deep stains.

The best bio detergents

The best non-bio detergents

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. She's a bookworm who is passionate about TV, film and theatre. She enjoys cooking, scrapbooking, playing board games and going on walks with her three dogs.

There's no denying that Monica Dolan is a versatile actress. She recently starred as victim Jo Hamilton in the true-to-life drama series Mr Bates vs. The Post Office and as chilling crime family matriarch Ann Branson in Sherwood series 2.

Here's everything you need to know about the TV star, including the other shows she has worked on.

How old is Monica Dolan?

Born in Middlesbrough on the 15th of March 1969, Monica Dolan is currently 57 years old.

Is Monica Dolan married?

From what we can gather, actress Monica Dolan does not have a partner and is not married, although she keeps her private life out of the spotlight. In an interview with The Guardian, she said that her biggest disappointment was "Not marrying the person I wanted to marry, but now I think it's probably good that I didn't."

Who is Monica Dolan's family?

Monica Dolan was born to Irish parents and has two sisters and one brother. Sadly, in 2008, one of her sisters died of cancer and her brother passed in 2020.

Speaking about losing her brother, who was just 56, she told The Guardian: “It was COVID and pneumonia.”

“I really, really feel for my mum, because she’s outlived two of her children. She’s 86, and she’s absolutely incredible. She’s just so strong. I can’t imagine many people coping with it."

Monica Dolan's top movies and TV shows

From the Mr Bates vs The Post Office scandal to playing a gangster in Sherwood, the actress has had a varied career.

Here are some of her best roles:

Sherwood

In season 2 of the BAFTA-winning drama Sherwood, Monica Dolan joined the cast as Ann Branson, a criminal matriarch seeking revenge after her son was killed.

"I think that Ann Branson differs not just from other characters that I’ve played, but from many characters I’ve seen." she told the BBC.

"She has absolute self-confidence. I don't know if it's because she's had her husband’s support since she was so young, but she really trusts herself. There aren't many people, even in life, that have that self-belief and the knowledge and intuition of what to do next when they’re faced with something."

On first being offered the show, she said: "I read three episodes of the script, and I thought they were extraordinary. It was like reading a George Eliot novel in the way that it slices through society."

Speaking exclusively to Yours.co.uk at the TV Choice Awards 2026, Monica Dolan reflected on filming intense, head-to-head scenes with her co-star Lorraine Ashbourne, revealing the pair had very different experiences on set.

“Well I loved working alongside Lorraine Ashbourne, it was fantastic,” Monica said, before joking that Lorraine arrived the next day exhausted after one particularly intense scene where their characters, Ann and Daphne, meet at The Welfare, while Monica admitted she “didn’t find it that stressful”.

Explaining why, she praised Lorraine’s performance, saying her co-star had “a million things to think about” during the moment, with her character balancing police pressure and fears for her children’s safety, while Monica’s role was simply trying to work out “what she was up to, so it was quite fun”.

Watch the scene Monica is referring to below:

Appropriate Adult

Monica Dolan played serial killer Rose West in Appropriate Adult on ITV, alongside Dominic West as Fred West, Rose's husband and fellow serial killer. Emily Watson led the show as Janet Leach, the appropriate adult present during Fred West's interviews with the police.

The show received multiple awards, and it was Monica Dolan's role of Rosemary West that won her the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress in 2012.

Call The Midwife

Fans of Call The Midwife may recognise Monica Dolan as twins Meg and Mave Carter from series 2. They were born when Sister Monica Joan was still well enough to practice midwifery but sadly their mother passed away after their death.

The twins are extremely close and even married the same man, and when Mave becomes pregnant, her sister is adamant that she isn't going to die in childbirth as their mother did, but relies on medieval methods of medicine.

Pride

In 2014, Monica Dolan played Joe's mother in Pride, a film about a group of gay activists who set out to help miners during the National Union of Mineworkers strike. The film was led by George Mackay as Joe and also starred the likes of Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Andrew Scott, Dominic West and Jessica Gunning.

W1A

Although she has not had many reoccurring roles, Monica Dolan did star in W1A (the satirical mockumentary about the management of the BBC) as Tracey Pritchard for 15 episodes.

The comedy was a follow-up from the Olympic mockumentary Twenty-Twelve and boasts a cast of British talent including Hugh Bonneville, Nina Sosanya, Jessica Hynes, Sarah Parish, Jason Watkins, Hugh Skinner and David Tennant as the narrator.

Black Mirror (2019, 2023)

Monica Dolan has starred in two episodes of Black Mirror, one as CS Linda Grace in Smithereens (back in series 5), where Andrew Scott played a rideshare driver who takes an intern from a large social media company hostage, and the second time as Janet McCardle in Loch Henry, where Davis (Samuel Blenkin) and Pia (Myha'la Herrold) are making a true crime documentary in Scotland.

The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe

Eddie Marsan and Monica Dolan play a real-life couple in the biographical crime drama The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe. The pair are facing bankruptcy, so John tries to fake his own death using his canoe, much to his wife Anne's dismay.

Speaking to press at a Q&A event for the show, Monica said: "I think and I hope that people will sort of yo-yo a bit with her (Anne) because you're seeing how she's feeling but there's the whole question of responsibility, and should she take responsibility. How much responsibility? Do you have choices that you don't see?"

If you missed its original release, you can watch The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe on ITVX.

The Change

Written and created by comedian Bridget Christie, The Change is about 50-year-old Linda (Christie) who has an existential crisis after starting the menopause and goes to live in a caravan and visit her old haunts in the Forest of Dean.

Monica Dolan plays Carmel, Susan Lynch plays Agnes and Tanya Moodie is Joy. Jim Howick, Omid Djalili, Liza Tarbuck and Paul Whitehouse also star in the series.

The show was renewed for a second series, so if you haven't watched The Change, catch up on Channel 4 now.

Mr Bates vs The Post Office

In another real-life drama, Mr Bates vs The Post Office, Monica Dolan plays Jo Hamilton, a subpostmistress who was wrongly accused of theft when the new electronic Horizon system showed false shortfalls on the account, which led her to pay it off with her own money, after thinking she'd made a mistake.

Monica told Radio Times that she'd love to see Jo and the other victims compensated.

She explained: "There are many many people who were putting their own money into the Post Office because their contract said they had to do that, and then just thought, 'My business isn't working, I'm gonna sell it at a loss. I'm gonna walk away'.

"So those people sold their businesses, lost their money, their money is still gone – and what's happened to them?"

"Working with Stephen Dillane is the experience of a lifetime. He’s a very intuitive and generous screen partner. As for Lorraine Ashbourne, I fell completely in love with her. I knew that I was going to because I love watching her. She brings so much humour and humanity to everything that she does, and I think audiences can identify with the characters she plays so strongly."

Viewers have praised Monica for this villainous role, with one social media user putting: "Quite hard to digest that this absolutely menacing creature from Sherwood was also the hapless wife in The Thief His Wife and The Canoe & a struggling post-mistress in Mr Bates vs the Post Office."

Catch both series of the unmissable drama Sherwood on BBC iPlayer now.

What is Monica Dolan's accent?

From being Welsh in W1A to copying Rose West's Gloucester accent in Appropriate Adult, Monica has mastered many voices over the years. She has a soft English accent in real life.

For Sherwood, she had to conquer the East Midlands accent. "I was very lucky because I worked with Jamie Matthewman, as many of us did. It's funny because the accent can be so in the middle. There are some sounds that sound London, there are some that sound Birmingham, there's some that sort of sound Yorkshire, but it's very easy to think to yourself “okay, I’ve got this now”, and then you’ve made the wrong sound."

Was Monica Dolan in Emmerdale?

No, Monica Dolan hasn't been in Emmerdale.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

ITV has announced that there will be a Mr Bates vs The Post Office documentary, following the success of the TV drama that was broadcast earlier this year.

The series (which was watched by over 13.5 million people in 28 days) became ITVs most successful drama launch in over a decade, beating the likes of Downton Abbey (which began in 2010). It raised awareness of the terrible injustice that over 900 sub-postmasters went through after being falsely accused of false accounting, fraud and theft following an IT malfunction when their new system Horizon, showed incorrect shortfalls on their account.

Mr Bates vs The Post Office: The Impact documentary

Mr Bates vs The Post Office documentary will focus on Alan Bates himself and will also feature other key figures including Jo Hamilton, Noel Thomas and Jess Uppal, whose stories were depicted on ITV's factual drama back in January.

Here's the official synopsis: "Eye-opening documentary - the story of one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in British legal history. Hundreds of sub-postmasters were accused of crimes that were not theirs."

“The Post Office scandal became a genuine national talking point at the start of this year, striking at the heart of the public’s sense of justice. The reverberations have been felt ever since at a political level, but particularly in the lives of those directly affected. This film promises to tell the story of what has happened since in their lives, how their fight continues as well as illuminating new layers of this scandal.” says Jo Clinton-Davis, Controller of Factual at ITV.

Mr Bates vs The Post Office TV show

If you missed it, you can catch up on the factual drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office on ITVX now. It includes a whole host of British talent all playing real people, including actor Toby Jones as Alan Bates and Sherwood actress Monica Dolan as Jo Hamilton.

Here's the full cast list:

• Toby Jones as Alan Bates

• Monica Dolan as Jo Hamilton

• Julie Hesmondhalgh as Suzanne Sercombe

• Alex Jennings as James Arbuthnot

• Ian Hart as Bob Rutherford

• Lia Williams as Paula Vennells

• Will Mellor as Lee Castleton

• Amy Nuttall as Lisa Castleton

• Krupa Pattani as Saman Kaur

• Amit Shah as Jas Singh

• Krupa Pattani as Saman Kaur

• Amit Shah as Jas Singh

• Colin Tierney as Martin Griffiths

• Clare Calbraith as Gina Griffiths

• Shaun Dooley as Michael Rudkin

• Lesley Nicol as Pam Stubbs

• John Hollingworth as James Hartley

• Adam James as Patrick Green QC

• Katherine Kelly as Angela van Den Bogerd

• Isobel Middleton as Kay Linnell

• Ifan Huw Dafydd [cy] as Noel Thomas

• Mark Arends as Richard Roll

• Andrew Havill as Stuart Wentworth QC

• Pip Torrens as Lord Justice Fraser

• Nadhim Zahawi as himself

• James Naughtie as himself

Where to watch the Mr Bates vs The Post Office documentary?

Mr Bates vs The Post Office: The Impact will be airing on ITV on Monday 9th September at 9pm.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. She's a bookworm who is passionate about TV, film and theatre. She enjoys cooking, scrapbooking, playing board games and spending time with her pet dogs, tortoise and chickens.

Popular BBC One crime show Sherwood has been commissioned for series 3, following the success of the previous instalments.

With over 6.5 million viewers tuning in to watch episode one of the latest series (inspired by the so-called ‘Shottingham’ gang wars that occurred in the community in which writer James Graham grew up in), the TV drama received high acclaim from viewers and critics alike.

And since the beginning of August alone, the first series of Sherwood has received over 7.2 million streams on BBC iPlayer and has become one of the BBC's most successful shows in recent years.

What will Sherwood series 3 be about?

According to Sherwood writer James Graham, we can expect "the continuation—and completion—of some (story) strands I’ve been dreaming of for some time.”

Speaking to the BBC, he said: “It continues to be the greatest privilege to tell stories set in and inspired by the history of my home county of Nottinghamshire. Having a returning series on the BBC is pretty much every British writer’s dream, and I’m incredibly grateful for the continued passion that Lindsay, Charlotte and Jo have for Sherwood - and to everyone at House Productions, the most supportive producers you can have.

"My biggest appreciation though goes to our audiences and I’m determined to deliver for them in series three."

Cast of Sherwood series 3

The show has attracted a high calibre of actors including Adheel Akhtar (Fool Me Once, Four Lions), Downton Abbey star Joanne Froggatt, Clair Rushbrook (Ali & Ava, Magpie Murders), Phillip Jackson from Poirot and Boomers, David Harewood (The Night Manager, Robin Hood), Perry Fitzpatrick (This is England, Without Sin), Robert Glenister (Black Cab, Hustle), Stephen Dillane (Kaos, The Tunnel, Game of Thrones) and Mr Bates vs The Post Office and Appropriate Adult star Monica Dolan.

Currently, there have been no casting announcements for Sherwood season 3, but some of the leading characters from previous runs may return, including David Morrisseyas detective turned Violence Intervention Team leader Ian St. Clair; Lorraine Ashbourne as Spy Cop turned crime family matriarch Daphne Sparrow and Lesley Manville as Julie Jackson, a widowed wife whose husband - former trade unionist - Gary Jackson was killed with a crossbow at the beginning of series one.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. She's a bookworm who is passionate about TV, film and theatre. She enjoys cooking, scrapbooking, playing board games and spending time with her pet dogs, tortoise and chickens.

If, like us, you're a huge fan of the Nottinghamshire-based Sherwood TV series, you're in for a treat as the final two episodes are on the way, and they're expected to be packed full of drama as the rivalry between the Sparrows, Bransons and Bottomleys continue.

The first series of the TV drama aired in 2022 and focused on the impact of two murders that happened in a former mining village, which led to lingering divisions within the community, stemming from the historical conflicts of the 1984 miners' strike. As the investigation unfolded, old wounds and rivalries resurfaced, highlighting deep-seated tensions and unresolved issues within the village.

*The following CONTAINS SPOILERS from BBC's Sherwood, episodes 1-4*

The second series of Sherwood - which includes some new cast members from shows such as Game of Thrones and Mr Bates VS the Post Office - was back with a bang as a gang member was shot, causing three families to be embedded in a dangerous rivalry.

Spy cop-turned-crime family matriarch Daphne Sparrow (played by Lorraine Ashbourne) has been unwillingly roped into helping drug cartel bosses Ann (Monica Dolan) and Roy Branson (Stephen Dillane) to get revenge on the Bottomleys, after her son and long-lost daughter witnessed the fatal shooting of the couple's son Nicky Branson (Sam Buchanan).

However, Daphne ends up in even deeper water with the Bransons after her plan to warn the Bottomleys of their imminent attack fails.

The intensity dialled up a gear in episode four, when Daphne, working undercover with local police Ian St Clair (David Morrissey) and DCS Harry Summers (Michael Balogun), met Ann in a local pub and tried to get a confession out of her, only to be rumbled by Ann, when her dodgy cop called her to tell her that Daphne had brought her there under false pretences and was actually wearing a wire to record their conversation.

Viewers have compared the scene to fellow BBC drama Happy Valley, where sisters Catherine Cawood and Clare Cartwright had an intense conversation across a table in series 3.

"Monica Dolan and Lorraine Ashbourne. Biggest compliment I can pay them is that they are up there with Siobhan Finneran and Sarah Lancashire. All of them truly brilliant." says an account on X.

What is the second series of Sherwood about?

The second series will continue to focus on the powerful themes from the initial episodes.

Here's the official synopsis from the BBC: 'Set in the present day it introduces two new families that find themselves entangled with the Sparrows, entering a complex web of local gangs, old rivalries, revenge, and betrayal. Meanwhile, a newly appointed Sheriff of Nottingham is passionately fighting against a proposed new mine for the area, which brings the promise of much needed jobs and prosperity but also unwelcome reminders of the legacy that has mired the community for so long.'

Is Sherwood based on a true story?

Gripping and intense, the series is inspired by real-life events, where in 2004, two murderers (who were former miners) committed unrelated crimes and both hid in Sherwood Forest at the same time, leading to the biggest manhunts in UK history.

However, not all of the events in the programme actually took place. At the beginning of the show, it states: “This story was initially inspired by two killings which took place in the Nottinghamshire mining community where the author grew up. For the purposes of dramatisation, the characters and the events have been fictionalised.”

In a BBC Writers interview, the show creator James Graham said: "It’s hugely personal to me and inspired in part by real events in my hometown in Nottinghamshire. It is a contemporary drama and at its heart are two devastating killings which spark a massive manhunt and shatter a community that is already fractured after the divisive effect of the miners' strike 40 years before.

“As we explore that we also examine the impact of so-called spy cops, as there have been reports and speculation - and there is currently an investigation into the practices of undercover policing surrounding this - that they had been deployed undercover into mining communities like Nottingham.”

Sherwood cast

Like the first instalment, the new series of Sherwood features a stellar cast, with several actors reprising their roles. David Morrissey is returning as DCS Ian St Clair, along with Lesley Manville (who recently played Princess Margaret in The Crown), Lorraine Ashbourne (from Bridgerton and Alma's Not Normal), Perry Fitzpatrick (This Is England and Line of Duty star), Philip Jackson (Raised by Wolves, Peterloo) and Bill Jones (The Village).

Joining the Sherwood drama for season 2 is: Monica Dolan (Mr Bates VS the Post Office and The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe), David Harewood (The Night Manager, Homeland), Robert Lindsay (My Family), Christine Bottomley (Back To Life, In the Club), Stephen Dillane (Game of Thrones, Vigil) and Sharlene Whyte (Stephen, Small Axe).

Oliver Huntingdon (Happy Valley), Aisling Loftus (The Midwich Cuckoos, War and Peace), Adam Hugill (1917, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness), Michael Balogun (Top Boy, The Lehman Trilogy), Ria Zmitrowicz (Three Girls), Robert Emms (Andor, Chernobyl), Jorden Myrie (Mood, The Strays), Conor Deane (All Creatures Great & Small, Newark) and Bethany Asher (Wild Bill, Mobility) also star.

When is the release date for Sherwood season 2?

Sherwood series 2 begins on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Sunday 25th August, with episodes every Sunday and Monday until the finale on the 9th September.

Sherwood Series 2 trailer

The trailer for season 2 of Sherwood has finally been released and it looks intense. The BBC captioned it with: "Revenge runs in the family...

Two families find themselves entangled with the Bransons, entering a complex web of local gangs, old rivalries and betrayal."

Is Sherwood on BBC iPlayer?

Yes! Whether you want to catch up with the drama before the next instalment or re-watch it because it was that good, all six episodes from the first series of Sherwood are available on BBC iPlayer.

The cast includes Adeel Akhtar (from River, Ali & Ava and most recently, Harlan Coben's Fool Me Once), Claire Rushbrook (also from Ali & Ava), Angela Black, Downton Abbey and Liar star Joanne Froggatt, Robert Glenister (Paranoid, Strike), fellow Paranoid, Downton Abbey and Happy Valley actor Kevin Doyle, Lindsay Duncan (Truelove), Alun Armstrong (Breeders, New Tricks) and Mark Addy (The Full Monty, Game of Thrones).

If you'd prefer, you can purchase the DVD for series one or pre-order the Sherwood series 2 DVD now.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. She's a bookworm who is passionate about TV and film. She enjoys cooking, scrapbooking and spending time with her many pets.

Netflix’s latest Duffer Brothers‑produced new drama, The Boroughs, may be set in a quiet retirement community, but there’s nothing sleepy about its soundtrack. Created by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews, the series echoes Stranger Things not only in its mystery‑driven storytelling, but in its needle‑drop heavy use of beloved hits from the 1970s and 1980s, songs that instantly transport viewers while sharpening the show’s offbeat tone.

At the centre of that musical world is Emmy‑winning supervisor Nora Felder, who previously curated the era‑defining soundtrack for Stranger Things. For The Boroughs, she once again assembles a roster of instantly recognisable artists, using familiar tracks to deepen character and atmosphere. Kicking things off is David Bowie’s “Golden Years,” which opens the first episode after featuring prominently in the trailer. The choice is more than a catchy hook. It sets the rhythm and attitude of the series from the outset, playfully nodding to the show’s setting while hinting at the energy simmering beneath its placid surface.

From there, the soundtrack unfolds like a carefully crafted mixtape. Bruce Springsteen, Earth, Wind & Fire and Bob Seger feature early on, while later episodes weave in the voices of Etta James, Lauryn Hill, Tina Turner, Johnny Cash and Bill Withers. Even Stranger Things alum Djo, the musical moniker of Joe Keery, makes an appearance, tying the show’s musical lineage together.

As the cast of The Boroughs band together to investigate a shadowy threat lurking within their community, the music becomes a vital storytelling tool, nostalgic, character‑driven and brimming with personality.

The series features an original soundtrack composed by American musician John Paesano, who is recognised for his work on Daredevil, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes and the Maze Runner movies.

Alongside the original score, the show also includes an impressive selection of well‑known needle drops, with tracks by artists such as David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen, Lauryn Hill, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and Bill Withers.

Here’s the complete list of songs featured in The Boroughs:

The Boroughs Season one. Every song featured in the Netflix series

Episode 1

“Golden Years” by David Bowie
“Oye Como Va” by Santana
“Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen”
“All These Things I’ve Done” by The Killers (A Netflix Cover)
“Straight Sound” by Head Cut
“Shining Star” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“Spread Some Love” by Mike Jemison
“Easy Life” by Jacob Bright
“Night Moves” by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band

Episode 2

“Love Is All” by Madeline Bell
“Visions of Your Reality” by Ultimate Spinach 
“Champagne Nights” by The Mellophonics
“Stormy Weather” by Etta James
“The Ex Factor” by Lauryn Hill

Episode 3

“Sex Beat” by Sex Beat
Back on You” by Djo
“You’ve Got a Killer Scene There, Man…” by Queens of the Stone Age
“Lose Your Soul” by Dead Man’s Bones

Episode 4

“Bluebird” by Alan Hawkshaw
“Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
“Alone” by David Lawrence and Velma Valentine
“Upon The Earth” by Illustration 
“I Can’t Stand the Rain” by Tina Turner
“Black Night” by Cheryl Thompson
“The Passenger” by Siouxsie and the Banshees

Episode 5

“Goodbye Little Girl Goodbye” by Morrie Morrison
“Belshazzar” by Johnny Cash
“Words Come Easy” by Tompall & The Glaser Brothers

Episode 6

“Rock the Boat” by The Hues Corporation  
“Up, Up and Away” by Engelbert Humperdinck 
“Love Train” by The O'Jays
“Comin’ Back to You” by Jim Wolfe
“Smiling Faces Sometimes” by The Undisputed Truth

Episode 7

“Cheek to Cheek” by Fred Astaire with Leo Reisman and His Orchestra
“Barracuda” by Heart

Episode 8

“More Today than Yesterday” by Spiral Starecase
“Oye Como Va” by Santana
“Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen”
“Do You Believe in Magic” by The Lovin’ Spoonful
“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen

When and where can I watch The Boroughs?

The Boroughs is now streaming on Netflix. You can watch all eight episodes now on Netflix.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

As Sara Barnes, 64, tentatively hobbled into a cold, icy lake on her crutches, she had no idea what to expect. It was her last desperate attempt to feel like herself again after major leg surgery on both legs left her completely immobile and in severe pain for months.

“I sort of sank down into it,” she admits. “The feeling was almost immediate. Physically, I couldn’t feel the pain in my legs because it was cold, about 10 degrees.”

To her surprise and elation, the constant pain she had been battling was gone.

“I looked at my legs, saw the scars, and thought, ‘It’s okay. I don’t need you, legs. I can float.’”

For the first time in months, Sara felt a wave of happiness and optimism.

“Emotionally, I felt joy and hope. I could see the mountains from this frog’s-eye view, which I’d never noticed before.”

Learning to walk again

After undergoing major leg surgery in 2017 following a diagnosis of severe osteoarthritis, she had been left temporarily unable to walk and cut off from the outdoor pursuits that had long shaped her identity.

“I had to learn to walk again,” says Sara. “I’ve never been so helpless.”

Reliant on her family, Sara was suffering both physically and mentally.

“It was pretty crushing,” Sara admits. “I’d relied so heavily on being independent, being able to drive. I loved being outdoors, cycling or running or just walking in the mountains. And it was all gone. I felt like I’d gone. I wasn’t who I was anymore. I didn’t know who I was.”

A community that changed everything

But that first experimental cold water swim in the Lake District soon became a daily ritual and an absolute lifeline.

“When I started swimming with other people I realised there’s a whole global community who do this because it feels great,” she says.

Sara also recognised that before her operations she had been suffering from loneliness and used exercise like cycling and trail running as a way to displace it.

“I was a single parent, self-employed, living rurally. I’d go all day without speaking to anyone but my kids. Being ‘a cyclist’ or entering events gave me an identity.”

But after her operation she completely lost all that.

“Swimming gave me that identity back,” she admits. “But it also genuinely removed the loneliness because I joined this huge community. It was a double whammy.”

It is for this reason that cold plunging is a cornerstone of Sara’s routine. Almost every day, she ventures out to rivers and lakes, combining short walks or cycles with brief immersions that she says boost her mood, confidence and overall wellbeing.

In winter, when temperatures drop sharply, even a few minutes in the water is enough. For Sara, the act is as much psychological as it is physical, a deliberate connection with nature and other like-minded swimmers that amplifies her emotional state and resets her perspective.

Told to keep swimming

But Sara’s resilience was put to the test again in 2025, when she endured two life-threatening medical emergencies, one during heart valve surgery and another severe reaction ahead of knee replacement surgery that left her with dangerously low vital signs. Luckily, it was the fact she was so fit due to her regular exercise that saved her life.

“I don’t think I’d have survived if I hadn’t been very fit,” she admits. “When I was diagnosed with a heart murmur, the cardiac team told me the cold-water swimming had kept my heart strong. One doctor said that without it, I might not still be here. He told me to continue.”

In fact, cold water swimming has not only kept her heart strong as she has grown older, it has also helped her deal with the symptoms of menopause.

“It helps with physical symptoms like hot flushes and aching limbs,” she says. “But it’s also the community. We talk openly in the water about personal things. Something shared is halved.”

Encouraging other women to take the plunge

Wild swimming has been such a powerful tool for Sara that she is now encouraging other people, especially older women, to give it a try.

“I’ve persuaded women to step into the lake in their underwear,” she laughs. “One 69-year-old lady held my hand and walked in. Her whole face changed. It doesn’t have to be huge. Just take one small step to change what you tell yourself in your head.”

Sara has since channelled her experience into writing, publishing both fiction and non-fiction exploring the benefits of cold-water immersion, particularly for women navigating menopause. Her story has also reached the screen. Filmmaker Emily, whom she met by chance, documented Sara’s journey in Dear Heart, capturing her return to the outdoors shortly after heart surgery. She is also supporting Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign, which is encouraging older people to get active.

“So many doors have opened for me,” says Sara. “I’ve grown in confidence. I’ve published three books in my early sixties. I speak at festivals. I never imagined I’d feel strong enough to encourage others. I’m an ordinary woman, but I’ve managed these things. We only have one life.”

For Sara, stepping into cold water was not just about swimming, but about stepping back into life itself.

Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign brings together the world of sport, physical activity and movement on a scale not seen before to encourage mid-lifers to be active so they can live their best possible later life. To find out more, visit Age UK Act Now a_nd check our Sara’s Instagram page (@bumblebarnes) for more cold water inspiration.’_

Sara Barnes Books

Read Sara's published books and be inspired for yourself.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 16 years' experience writing for women over 50. In her previous role she was deputy editor on Yours magazine for nine years, before moving over to Yours.co.uk. She has recently trained become an accredited Executive Menopause Coach, so that she can better support those going through the menopause in the workplace.

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Keeley Hawes, who has recently starred in Channel 4's Falling, is back in action as Prime Video has released the first look at the return of her thriller The Assassin, along with fresh details about what we can expect from season two.

The new run of the series has been described as “terrific fun”, with Keeley once again leading the story as Julie Green, along with Freddie Highmore as her son, Edward Green.

Season two picks up after a chaotic trip to Berlin, which sees the central characters heading home following what’s described as a “disastrous” getaway. But things are far from settled, with relationships left strained and tensions still running high.

Julie is also not quite done with her past as an assassin, with the new season seeing her slip back into old habits while juggling something far more unexpected - dating.

Elsewhere, Edward’s honeymoon doesn’t go to plan, pulling him back into Julie’s world just as things start to unravel again. The pair are soon drawn into a dangerous job involving Spain’s criminal underworld, forcing them to work together once more.

Whether they can survive the mission - and repair their fractured relationship - remains to be seen.

Alongside the story details, Prime Video has also released a set of first-look images teasing the tone of the new season, hinting at a bigger, globe-trotting story with more action and tension than before.

New cast members joining the series include After the Flood star Jacqueline Boatswain and Emily in Paris actor Arnaud Binard.

The drama is created by writing duo Harry and Jack Williams, best known for The Missing and Baptiste, with their trademark mix of fast-paced storytelling and character-driven drama once again at the forefront.

Keeley Hawes has shared her excitement bout returning for the new season, saying: “I can’t wait to step back into Julie’s world. To reunite with Freddie and our extraordinary cast, and to dive deeper into Julie’s life and her complicated relationship with Edward, is a privilege. There is so much more to uncover, and audiences are in for a treat.”

The Assassin season two is expected to arrive on Prime Video in 2026.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

As a regular on our screens, we've become very familiar with the sight of Craig Doyle on This Morning. The Irish TV and radio presenter is currently best known for his regular hosting job on This Morning, but you may be wondering what else he's appeared in over the years. From his TV career to his family life with his wife, here's everything you need to know about TV's Craig Doyle.

Craig Doyle on This Morning

Craig is currently a regular host on This Morning, which is probably where you've seen him most recently. He's been a host on the show since 2021 and has appeared alongside a range of co-presenters including Josie Gibson, Alison Hammond, Holly Willoughby, Mollie King, Rochelle Humes and Cat Deeley.

He landed the hosting role after previously hosting the competition segments on The Morning before taking on a few guest hosting spots with Alison Hammond. After being a hit with audiences, his hosting role became more of a permanent fixture. His fellow male hosting colleagues are Rylan, Dermot O'Leary and Ben Shepherd.

Craig Doyle's wife and wedding

We love how Craig is always mentioning his wife Doon while presenting This Morning. After a long-term relationship, the pair got married in January 2002.

While Craig loves the limelight, his wife is said to be quite different and stays out of the public eye. According to The Sun, Doon was born in Glencree in Wicklow in 1972.

Craig met Doon at a gym when he was home in Ireland before he started working on Tomorrow's World. Speaking to RTÉ in 2011, he explained that Doon had been working at the gym before she started college and Craig's friend encouraged him to swing by.

Reminiscing about their first encounter, he said: "I didn't even have gym gear with me. I had a pair of shorts and a pair of shoes, I looked like a k**b and I met her and thought 'Holy God'."

Craig also talked about their third date- which didn't exactly go to plan. The couple went for a drink in Greystones in County Wicklow and Craig ended the date in a very formal manner.

He says: "We were out walking and as I left, I shook her hand. Complete nerd. She looked at me like I was a complete t**t and said, 'That was the kissing date. Why didn't you kiss me?' I was scared. I fancied her you see."

It is believed that Doon went on to become an interior designer but gave up her career to raise the couple's children.

Craig Doyle's family and children

Craig and Doon share four children together; Elsa, Milo, Muireann and Quinn. The family live in County Wicklow in Ireland but they also have a home in Kew in West London.

According to some reports, the family also have two dogs and a cat, which explains why Craig is such an animal lover whenever any furry friends visit the This Morning studios.

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph in 2017 Craig admitted that if he could he would have many more children because he simply loves them.

Craig was also full of praise for Doon and her parenting skills saying, "Doon's full-time with them. She keeps the ship rolling; she's amazing."

He went on to add: "I go to work but I'm really only doing my hobby. She has a hell of a lot more patience than me."

How old is Craig Doyle?

Craig was born December 17, 1970 in Dublin, making him currently 55.

What else has Craig Doyle presented?

Craig began his career as a sports reporter for an Irish national broadcaster, RTE, covering major sporting events. Sticking with sport presenting, he soon moved to the UK to work for the BBC, most notably presenting the BBC's coverage of the Rugby Union.

Shortly after leaving the BBC, Craig began to work with ITV, presenting quiz show, The Colour of Money, Fifth Gear and also presenting BT Sport's coverage of the Rugby Union.

Outside of presenting, you may also recognise Craig as being the face of the Everest Windows in their adverts for double-glazing.

Is Craig Doyle on Instagram?

No is the answer. There is no personal Instagram page for Craig Doyle anymore. There is however an official fan page that you can follow called @craigdoyletv.

Lorna White is a Senior Digital Writer at Yours.co.uk. She was previously a writer at Yours Magazine writing features and news stories before joining the digital team. Lorna loves the great British countryside and likes to spend her spare time out and about in her home of Nottinghamshire walking her dog, Pippin.

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The Capture returns for season 3, bringing new twists, high-stakes surveillance, and a mix of familiar faces and fresh characters. At the centre of the story is Rachel Carey, now Acting Commander of Counter Terrorism Command, as she navigates a world of deepfakes, political conspiracies and a new terror threat.

Here’s your complete guide to The Capture season 3 cast, including every new and returning character, and what else the actors have been in.

The Capture Season 3 Cast: key characters

• Rachel Carey – Holliday Grainger
• Frank Napier – Ron Perlman
• Isaac Turner – Paapa Essiedu
• Noah Pierson – Killian Scott (new)
• Julian Talbot – Andrew Buchan (new)
• James Whitlock – Joe Dempsie (new)
• Nadia Latif – Ginny Holder
• Chloe Tan – Tessa Wong
• Danny Hart – Ben Miles
• Gemma Garland – Lia Williams
• Tom Kendricks – Nigel Lindsay
• Abigail Carey – Daisy Waterstone

Holliday Grainger as Rachel Carey

Who is Rachel Carey? Carey is a senior counter-terrorism officer in the Met and the lead character of The Capture. In season 3, she’s Acting Commander of Counter Terrorism Command, a year after exposing the secretive Correction programme with a live deepfake.

Carey started as an ambitious officer on the fast-track scheme, but uncovering Correction forced her to choose principles over career. Season 3 explores how her morals are tested as she navigates power, responsibility, and high-stakes investigations.

What else has Holliday Grainger been in? Holliday Grainger is known for playing Robin Ellacott in Strike. She has also appeared in Waterloo Road, Patrick Melrose, The Borgias and The Stolen Girl. Her film credits include Cinderella and Great Expectations.

Paapa Essiedu as Isaac Turner

Who is Isaac Turner? Isaac Turner is a Member of Parliament and Security Minister who, over the course of the series, evolves from an ambitious politician into a key player in high-stakes political and surveillance drama.

What else has Paapa Essiedu been in? Paapa Essiedu is known for roles in I May Destroy You, The Lazarus Project, and Black Mirror’s “Demon 79” episode. He has also been cast as Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series.

Killian Scott as Noah Pierson

Who is Noah Pierson? Noah Pierson is a rising star in the Metropolitan Police, described as a “Met golden boy.” His mysterious past and key role in Counter Terrorism Command make him central to season 3’s story of surveillance, political intrigue and high-stakes conspiracies.

What else has Killian Scott been in? Killian Scott is known for Dublin Murders, Love/Hate, Damnation, and Secret Invasion. He has also appeared in films including ’71 and The Commuter.

Indira Varma as Khadija Khan

Who is Khadija Khan? Khadija Khan is a BBC Newsnight presenter and sharp investigative journalist. She doesn’t hold back in her interviews and, alongside Rachel Carey, played a key role in exposing the Correction programme in season 2. In season 3, her work continues to intersect with the series’ high-stakes political and surveillance drama.

What else has Indira Varma been in? Indira Varma is known for playing Ellaria Sand in Game of Thrones, Niobe in Rome, and Suzie Costello in Torchwood. She has also appeared in Luther, Human Target, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Exodus: Gods and Kings, Coldwater, Paranoid and the Olivier Award-winning stage production Present Laughter. She's also in the upcoming adaptation of The Other Bennet Sister, playing Mrs Gardiner.

Joe Dempsie as James Whitlock

Who is James Whitlock? James Whitlock is a new character in season 3, whose involvement in the investigation and wider conspiracy adds suspense and intrigue to Rachel Carey’s Counter Terrorism Command team. He brings fresh energy and tension to the unfolding story.

What else has Joe Dempsie been in? Joe Dempsie is best known for playing Gendry in Game of Thrones. He has also appeared in Skins, This Is England, Deep State, Get Millie Black, Showtrial, Pieces of Her and Toxic Town.

Andrew Buchan as Julian Talbot

Who is Julian Talbot? Julian Talbot is a new figure in season 3 whose actions intersect with intelligence and political intrigue. His presence adds tension and new stakes for Rachel Carey and her team.

What else has Andrew Buchan been in? Andrew Buchan is known for Broadchurch, The Crown, and Garrow’s Law. He has also appeared in The Day of the Triffids and The Challenger Disaster.

Ben Miles as Danny Hart

Who is Danny Hart? Danny Hart is a senior counter-terrorism officer who once served as both mentor and romantic partner to Rachel Carey. Over time, he becomes morally compromised, manipulating surveillance evidence and eventually leaving the police for the private security sector, though he remains connected to the wider conspiracy.

What else has Ben Miles been in? The actor is known for roles such as Patrick Maitland in Coupling, Peter Townsend in The Crown, and Thomas Cromwell in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Wolf Hall. He also played Robin in Hijack. His film credits include V for Vendetta, Tetris, and Red Joan, and he has also appeared in acclaimed stage productions like The Lehman Trilogy.

Lia Williams as Gemma Garland

Who is Gemma Garland? Gemma Garland is a senior detective who worked with the Correction programme in seasons 1 and 2. As Detective Superintendent in season 2, she was described as “drily manipulative” and played a central role in the series’ surveillance and conspiracy plots.

What else has Lia Williams been in? Lia has appeared in TV series including Doc Martin, Lewis, The Missing, Strike, Riviera, Death in Paradise, The Lazarus Project, The Crown (as Wallis Simpson) and Mr Bates vs The Post Office (as Paula Vennells). Her film credits include Benediction, Living and Scoop.

Ron Perlman as Frank Napier

Who is Frank Napier? Frank Napier is a high-ranking CIA Section Chief and a central figure in the Correction programme, using advanced technology to manipulate surveillance footage and influence outcomes. He has a complicated relationship with Rachel Carey: she is idealistic and careful to stay within the law, while Napier is more willing to blur ethical lines due to his experience. Despite their tension, there is mutual respect, with Napier recognizing Rachel’s intelligence and ambition.

What else has Ron Perlman been in? Ron Perlman is best known for playing Hellboy in Hellboy, Clay Morrow in Sons of Anarchy, and Vincent in Beauty and the Beast. He has appeared in films such as Blade II, Pacific Rim, Cronos, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Nightmare Alley, and Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio. His voice work includes roles in Teen Titans and the Fallout video game series. He has also appeared in TV shows like The Magnificent Seven, Hand of God, Poker Face, and Mr & Mrs Smith.

Ginny Holder as Nadia Latif

Who is Nadia Latif? Nadia Latif is a key member of Rachel Carey’s team in Counter Terrorism Command. She began as a detective sergeant and rose to detective inspector, and by season 3 she is helping implement Operation Veritas, a new surveillance system designed to prevent manipulation like the Correction programme.

What else has Ginny Holder been in? Ginny is best known for playing Officer Darlene Curtis in Death in Paradise and Thandie Abebe-Griffin in Holby City. She has also appeared in Family Affairs, MotherFatherSon, Avenue 5, Midsomer Murders, and the film London Has Fallen.

Nigel Lindsay as Tom Kendricks

Who is Tom Kendricks? Tom Kendricks is a senior member of Rachel Carey’s Counter Terrorism Command team. He plays a key role in supporting investigations and implementing operations within the Met’s high-stakes surveillance environment.

What else has Nigel Lindsay been in? Nigel has appeared in TV series including Rome, Jam & Jerusalem, Silent Witness, Unforgotten, Safe, Victoria, White Gold, The Last Kingdom, The Salisbury Poisonings, Kidnapped: The Chloe Ayling Story, MobLand, The Hack and Maigret. His film credits include Four Lions.

Tessa Wong as Chloe Tan

Who is Chloe Tan?
Chloe Tan is a fast-tracked detective constable who joined the Homicide team in season 2 and now works closely with Rachel Carey’s Counter Terrorism Command. She is highly observant, detail-oriented, and eager to prove herself, providing essential support to the team’s investigations in season 3.

What else has Tessa Wong been in?
Tessa Wong has appeared in TV series including Smothered, Silent Witness, and Black Mirror.

Daisy Waterstone as Abigail Carey

Who is Abigail Carey? Abigail Carey is Rachel Carey’s half-sister. Her role provides personal stakes and emotional depth to Rachel’s story as the series unfolds.

What else has Daisy Waterstone been in? Daisy Waterstone is best known for playing Margot Durrell in The Durrells. She has also been in Dalgliesh, The Long Shadow and Prime Target. Daisy has also appeared in the film Testament of Youth.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

BBC’s new drama Babies is a tender, moving exploration of love, loss and hope. Created, written and directed by Stefan Golaszewski, the award-winning writer behind Mum and Marriage, the six-part series follows Lisa and Stephen as they navigate the heartbreak of pregnancy loss while trying to build a family.

This is a drama that doesn’t shy away from the difficult moments, despite dark times of grief and loneliness, it's also about resilience, connection and the small victories that keep hope alive.

What is Babies about?

Lisa (Siobhán Cullen) and Stephen (Paapa Essiedu) are a young couple facing repeated miscarriages. While their hope is tested, their journey is filled with tender moments, gentle humour, and a deep sense of love that keeps them moving forward.

Parallel to their story, Amanda (Charlotte Riley) and Dave (Jack Bannon) navigate the challenges of a new relationship, testing long-standing friendships and adding another layer to the series.

Cast of Babies

• Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You, The Capture) as Jack
• Siobhán Cullen (Bodkin, Obituary) as Lisa
• Charlotte Riley (The Peripheral, Press) as Amanda
• Jack Bannon (Pennyworth, Endeavour) as Dave

Stefan Golaszewski says, “Paapa, Siobhán, Jack, and Charlotte bring warmth and deep humanity to a story that’s rarely told.”

Babies trailer

The six-part series is shot in and around London and combines emotional truth with tender humour.

Executive producer Ruth Kenley-Letts adds, “The emotional truth of Stefan’s writing is exceptional. This story will touch hearts and spark conversations about resilience, hope, and the bonds that hold us together.”

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

If you're looking for your next binge-worthy new drama then we've got the perfect show suggestion for you.

Set within a seemingly picture‑perfect retirement community, The Boroughs begins with the arrival of a grieving newcomer, Sam (Alfred Molina), whose shocking, monstrous encounter shatters the calm façade of suburban life. What follows is an unexpected alliance with a misfit crew of fellow residents. These unlikely heroes soon uncover the dark secret lurking beneath the neatly trimmed lawns and friendly smiles.

The Boroughs is already being hailed as Stranger Things for grown‑ups, and with the Duffer Brothers as producers, it is easy to see why. While the special effects may not rival the blockbuster scale of their hit Netflix series, this drama more than holds its own thanks to its exceptional cast.

Blending seasoned Hollywood heavyweights with exciting up‑and‑coming talent, the ensemble is the true heart of the show. Here, we meet the stars bringing this extraordinary neighbourhood and its dark secrets vividly to life.

Who is in the cast of The Boroughs?

• Alfred Molina (Spider-Man: No Way Home, Three Pines) plays Sam.

• Geena Davis (Thelma and Louise, A League of Their Own) plays Renee.

• Alfre Woodard (Clemency, Salem’s Lot) plays Judy.

• Denis O’Hare (American Horror Story,This Is Us) plays Wally.

• Clarke Peters (The Wire, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) plays Art.

• Bill Pullman (The Sinner, Independence Day) plays Jack.

• Jena Malone (Love Lies Bleeding, The Hunger Games) plays Claire.

• Carlos Miranda (Station 19, Vida) plays Paz.

• Seth Numrich (Under the Banner of Heaven, Turn) plays Blaine.

• Alice Kremelberg (The Sinner, Renegade Nell) plays Anneliese.

• Rafael Casal (Loki, Blindspotting) plays Neil.

• Dee Wallace (E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Cujo) plays Grace.

• Ed Begley Jr. (Young Sheldon, Better Call Saul) plays Edward.

• Jane Kaczmarek (Malcom in the Middle, The Changeling) plays Lilly.

• Eric Edelstein (Twin Peaks: The Return, Minx) plays Hank.

• Mousa Hussein Kraish (American Gods, Your Lucky Day) plays Dr. McGinnis.

• Beth Bailey (Outer Range, Manhattan, The Harder They Fall) plays Kayleigh.

Alfred Molina as Sam

Sam Cooper is the latest arrival in The Boroughs, a retired engineer mourning the loss of his wife, Lilly, played by Jane Kaczmarek. Initially reluctant about his new surroundings and neighbours, Sam experiences a terrifying, otherworldly encounter which causes him to band together with his eccentric fellow residents to expose a sinister secret and protect a community he never even planned to join.

Alfred Molina says he was drawn to the project because of the script’s natural tone. “The writing felt completely authentic,” he explains. “It didn’t seem like dialogue on a page. It sounded like real conversations, like how people genuinely speak.”

Co-showrunner Matthews remembers that the cast and crew were especially keen to impress Molina during filming. “Nobody wants to disappoint Alfred,” he says. “From the moment we met him at casting, it was clear. We thought, ‘That’s him. He’s our Sam.’ He spoke so openly about love, loss and the bittersweet moments in between. There was never any doubt he was perfect for the role.”

What else has Alfred Molina been in?

Alfred Molina is a highly respected British actor celebrated for his wide‑ranging work in film, television and theatre. He made an unforgettable early impression as Satipo in Raiders of the Lost Ark, and later gained worldwide acclaim for his portrayal of the formidable Dr Otto Octavius, also known as Doc Ock, in Spider‑Man 2 and Spider‑Man: No Way Home.

Over the years, his varied career has included standout roles as Diego Rivera in Frida, as well as appearances in An Education, Boogie Nights, The Da Vinci Code and Chocolat. More recently, he has starred in The Instigators (2024) and When We Get There, further cementing his reputation as one of the industry’s most versatile performers.

Geena Davis as Renee

Renee is a sharp‑tongued former rock ’n’ roll music manager who has no intention of fading quietly into the background. Determined not to be defined by her age, she finds both an unexpected romance and a renewed sense of purpose when she joins forces with her neighbours to confront the threat hiding behind their perfectly kept lawns.

“I love that Renee has such a vivid, adventurous history,” Davis says. “She’s led a really fascinating life.”

“She’s still thriving and living the good life. … She likes to say she doesn’t really belong in this retirement community because she knows she’s all that.”

The actress was immediately drawn to the idea of a supernatural drama centred on residents of a retirement community. “I thought it would be such fun for us to take the lead in a story like this,” she explains. “The supernatural elements were especially exciting. I’ve played the girlfriend of a fly and the girlfriend of an alien, so I’m no stranger to slightly other‑worldly worlds.”

What else has Geena Davis been in?

Geena Davis is an Academy Award‑winning actress whose career spans some of the most memorable films of the past four decades. She earned an Oscar for The Accidental Tourist in 1988 and went on to cement her status as a Hollywood leading lady with standout roles in Thelma & Louise (1991) and A League of Their Own (1992).

Her impressive filmography also includes cult favourite Beetlejuice (1988), sci‑fi classic The Fly (1986), action thriller The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996), family hit Stuart Little (1999) and the much‑loved comedy Tootsie (1982).

Alfre Woodward as Judy

Judy Daniels is a quick‑thinking former journalist with a habit of noticing more than most. With her sharp instincts and watchful eye, she begins to suspect that their sun‑soaked retirement haven is concealing something far more troubling beneath its glossy surface.

“There’s a real, insatiable curiosity in Judy,” Woodard says. “Some might label her nosy, but it’s really about wanting to understand what’s happening around her. She observes everything, and she doesn’t just see it, she wants to connect the dots.”

Co‑creator Addiss hints that Judy’s journey will take viewers in an unexpected direction. “At first, you get the sense that she’s the one who has everything worked out,” he explains. “But then events completely unsettle her, and we see how that affects her behind closed doors.”

What else has Alfre Woodward been in?

Alfre Woodard is an acclaimed American actress celebrated for bringing strength, depth and quiet authority to her roles on both stage and screen. Over the course of her she has earned numerous awards and nominations, reflecting her reputation as one of the industry’s most respected performers.

Her wide‑ranging credits include The Family That Preys (2008) and Holiday Heart (2000), as well as television favourites such as Desperate Housewives (2004–2012), True Blood (2008–2014) and Marvel’s Luke Cage (2016–2018). She has also appeared in the horror film Annabelle (2014), showcasing her versatility across genres.

Denis O’Hare as Wally

Wally Baker is a gifted retired physician who feels his choices narrowing. Quick with a joke, he hides behind humour, using it to ease awkward moments and disarm those around him. Yet when circumstances demand it, he proves far more capable and formidable than anyone expects.

Denis O’Hare says the character’s evolution was what drew him in. “What appealed to me most was Wally’s arc,” he explains. “At first, he’s lovable and funny, almost the comic relief. But then the tone shifts, and he takes on a much darker, almost tragic weight.”

The show’s creators were also struck by O’Hare’s command of the complex medical language woven into the script. “Wally needs to deliver technical dialogue in a way that feels completely natural,” says Matthews. “Denis has such an incredible ear for language that he makes even the most complicated lines sound effortless.”

What else has Denis O'Hare been in?

enis O’Hare is an acclaimed American actor known for his award‑winning stage work, including standout performances in Take Me Out and Sweet Charity. On television, he is widely recognised for his memorable portrayal of vampire king Russell Edgington in the HBO fantasy drama True Blood.

His extensive screen credits also include Dallas Buyers Club (2013), The Pyramid (2014), Swallow (2019), Infinite Storm (2022) and American Horror Stories (2021–2024).

Clarke Peters as Art

Art Daniels is a thoughtful spiritual explorer whose calm resilience and open‑hearted outlook ground the group. As events unfold, he embarks on a deeply personal journey that reveals his greatest challenges and strengths may still lie ahead.

“What attracted me to Art is that he’s searching for meaning,” Peters explains. “He’s trying to make sense of something supernatural, something earthly, something that exists beyond ordinary awareness.”

Art’s path often separates him from the others, requiring the character to stand alone in key moments. “There are many scenes where Clarke has to carry the camera by himself,” Addiss says. “You need an actor who can command the screen while witnessing these extraordinary, frightening and beautiful experiences and Clarke absolutely could.”

What else has Clarke Peters been in?

Peter Clarke, professionally known as Clarke Peters, is an American actor, writer and director who has lived and worked extensively in the United Kingdom throughout his career. He is widely recognised for his portrayal of Detective Lester Freamon in The Wire and for playing Albert Lambreaux in the acclaimed series Treme.

Bill Pullman as Jack

Jack Willard is the warm, outgoing neighbour who keeps the block buzzing, always ready with a grin, a drink and an open invitation. With his easy charm and generous spirit, he helps transform the cul-de-sac into a true found family.

Executive producer Hilary Leavitt first proposed Bill Pullman for the role, and after meeting with him, co-producers Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews quickly agreed he was the perfect fit.

“What Bill brings to Jack is a genuine emotional honesty,” Addiss explains. “He becomes a confidant for Sam, his first real friend in this world, and supports him on his journey in a way that feels completely authentic. There’s nothing forced about it. It feels natural, effortless and deeply heartfelt.”

What else has Bill Pullman been in?

Bill Pullman is a versatile actor celebrated for his leading roles in 1990s blockbusters and acclaimed television projects. He is widely recognised for portraying President Thomas J. Whitmore in Independence Day, starring as the romantic lead in While You Were Sleeping, and playing the unforgettable Lone Starr in Spaceballs.

Ed Begley Jr. as Edward

Edward is a retiree living with a neurological condition that has led him to reside at a nearby full-service care facility known as The Manor. As his mental state appears to decline at an alarming rate, questions arise about whether his condition is progressing naturally or if something more complex lies beneath the surface.

What else has Ed Begley. Jr been in?

Edward James Begley Jr. is an American actor and environmentalist with a career spanning hundreds of films, television series and stage productions. Known for his distinctive presence and versatility, he has appeared in a wide range of acclaimed projects. You may recognise him from Young Sheldon (2017–2024), Better Call Saul (2015–2022) and the comedy Best in Show (2000).

When and where can I watch The Boroughs?

You can now stream all eight episodes of The Boroughs on Netflix now.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

If you've made the decision to reduce your alcohol intake or quit altogether, the best alcohol-free drinks will be your go-to companions, helping you stay social while embracing a sober lifestyle.

According to the charity Alcohol Change, last year, nine million adults in the UK took part in Dry January, with similar numbers expected this year. However, YouGov found that one in three fails to make it to the end of the month without reverting to their usual drinking habits.

The best alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks at a glance:

• Writer's choice: CleanCo Clean G Rhubarb Non-Alc Gin Alt - Buy now on Sainsbury's
• Best gin alternative: Tanqueray Alcohol Free 0.0 - Buy now on Waitrose
• Best non-alcoholic drink to gift: Saicho Luxurious Non-Alcoholic Jasmine Sparkling Tea - Buy now on Amazon UK

With so many social events and gatherings involving alcohol, the pressure to conform to social norms or expectations can be challenging when abstaining from drinking. Over a third of UK adults feel pressured to drink alcohol when socialising, and for many people trying to quit, this is when they fall off the wagon. But with so many alcohol-free drinks on the market, it is now easier than ever to have all the joys of drinking with none of the hangovers.

Cutting back on alcohol has lots of health benefits that we will explore later in this article, but regardless of your reasons, we have rounded up the very best alcohol-free and low-alcoholic drinks that will help you in your quest to cut down on your alcohol consumption in 2024.

The best alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks 2024

Is it healthy to drink alcohol?

Moderate alcohol consumption can be considered relatively healthy for some people. Studies suggest that moderate drinking (defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men) may be associated with certain health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease. And the good news is more people are drinking less. In 2023, 49 per cent of adults (aged 18+) were drinking at low-risk levels.

However, excessive or heavy drinking can have severe health consequences for both your mental and physical health. It is essential to be aware that alcohol affects individuals differently, and if alcohol is having a detrimental effect on your life, it is important to seek medical assistance.

What is the NHS-recommended alcohol intake?

When it comes to enjoying a drink, it's recommended for both men and women not to exceed 14 units a week on a regular basis. If you find yourself sipping up to that limit, consider spreading it out across three days or more. And if you're thinking about cutting back a bit, why not embrace a few alcohol-free days each week? It's a great way to care for yourself and maintain a healthy balance.

How often do people drink alcohol in the UK?

In 2019, 48 per cent of adults (aged 16+) reported drinking alcohol at least once a week.
Adults aged between 55 and 74 were the most likely to report drinking alcohol at least once a week, whereas adults aged between 16 and 24 were the least likely (58% vs 30%).
The proportion of adults who reported drinking alcohol at least once a week decreased from 52% in 2015.

What is binge drinking?

Binge drinking is defined as consuming six or more units (women) or eight or more units (men) in a single session. Adults aged between 55 and 64 were the most likely to report binge. Women in the UK are some of the biggest binge drinkers in the world, according to data from a new worldwide health report.

Previous research has found that 24 per cent of adults living in England binge drink regularly, ignoring the guidelines for safe drinking.

Binge drinking has profound health implications. Drinking lots of alcohol in a short space of time is dangerous because your body can't deal with it properly.

Your body can process approximately one unit of alcohol per hour, so drinking at a faster rate than this will raise your blood alcohol concentration and cause you to feel drunk quickly. The NHS states that drinking too much too quickly on any single occasion can increase your risk of accidents resulting in injury, causing death in some cases.

How much alcohol do people drink in the UK?

According to a survey conducted by the NHS, Adults aged between 55 and 64 were the most likely to drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week, whereas adults aged between 16 and 24 were the least likely (31% vs 15%).

Exceeding this recommended limit can significantly elevate the risk of developing chronic health conditions such as liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and mental health disorders. Drinking more than 14 units in a given week increases the likelihood of alcohol-related accidents, injuries, and impaired cognitive function, adversely affecting one's overall health. Swapping your favourite alcoholic beverage for a non-alcoholic alternative a few times a week can have a huge effect on your overall well-being.

What are the health benefits of giving up alcohol?

Considering that a third of adults report feeling anxious after alcohol (TRIP), breaking boozy habits is certainly a good way to start the year feeling healthier and happier.

Improved liver function: Alcohol consumption can strain the liver, and quitting allows the organ to regenerate, leading to improved liver function and a reduced risk of liver diseases.

Better sleep: Alcohol can affect the way we sleep. Alcohol interferes with sleeping patterns, and abstaining from it can result in better quality and more restful sleep.

Weight management: Alcohol can be really high in calories, and eliminating it from your diet can contribute to weight loss or weight maintenance.

Enhanced mental health: Alcohol can affect your mood and exacerbate mental health issues. Giving it up may lead to improved emotional well-being and reduced anxiety or depression symptoms.

Lower blood pressure: Alcohol consumption is linked to elevated blood pressure, and quitting can contribute to better cardiovascular health.

Reduced risk of certain cancers: Alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, including breast and liver cancer. Giving up alcohol can help lower this risk.

Improved immune system: Alcohol can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illnesses. Abstaining from alcohol can strengthen the immune system.

Better hydration: Alcohol is dehydrating, and going sober can contribute to improved hydration levels, benefiting skin health and overall bodily functions.

Enhanced cognitive function: Long-term alcohol use can negatively impact cognitive function; giving it up can contribute to improved memory, concentration, and overall brain health.

Reduced risk of accidents: Alcohol impairs coordination and judgment, and quitting can lead to a lower risk of accidents and injuries.

How does your body change in one year of being sober?

In the first year of sobriety, the body undergoes significant positive changes. The liver, relieved from the constant burden of processing alcohol, experiences regeneration, leading to improved function and a potential reduction in fatty liver. Sleep patterns often stabilize, resulting in better quality and more restful sleep. Skin health may improve due to enhanced hydration, and weight management becomes more manageable.

Alcohol support

If you or someone you know is seeking alcohol support, the first step is to reach out to healthcare professionals, such as your doctor or a mental health counsellor, who can provide guidance and resources tailored to your specific situation. For more information on how to get support, please visit the NHS website.

Hannah Carroll is a Senior Home, Parenting and Lifestyle Product writer for Yours, specialising in product testing and reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah loves finding clothes that make her feel fabulous and products that are great for large families.

If you love a gripping new drama with heart, atmosphere and a few deliciously eerie twists, Netflix’s new series The Boroughs deserves a spot on your watchlist.

From the producers of Stranger Things, this supernatural mystery swaps teenage heroes for a group of retirees – and proves that courage, curiosity and adventure don’t fade with age.

Here’s why it deserves to be your next Netflix watch.

A peaceful community… with a dark secret

The show is set in an idyllic retirement community in New Mexico and begins with a familiar scene: neat streets, friendly faces and neighbours who know one another by name. It’s the sort of place many retirees would be happy to call home.

But beneath the calm exterior, something isn’t quite right.

Strange incidents begin to ripple through the neighbourhood. Small at first, these occurrences are easily dismissed. But before long, it’s clear there’s something far more unsettling at work. Time seems to bend in odd ways. Secrets begin to surface. And a sense of unease settles over the once‑tranquil community.

Rather than stand back, a small group of residents decide to investigate. They may have believed their days of high drama were behind them, but it seems life has other plans.

A refreshing twist on the genre

While comparisons to Stranger Things are inevitable (thanks to executive producers The Duffer Brothers), The Boroughs offers something refreshingly different.

Instead of teenagers stumbling into the unknown, this series centres on characters who have lived full, rich lives. They bring experience, wisdom and resilience to the mystery unfolding around them and that makes the stakes feel all the more powerful.

When talking about the series The Duffer Brothers said; “While the heroes in The Boroughs have a few more years on them than the kids from Stranger Things, they are a similarly lovable bunch of misfits, and we can’t wait for you to join them on an adventure that is at turns scary, funny, and deeply touching.”

The Boroughs co‑creators Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews (best known for The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance) told Tudum about the challenge they faced making this series.
“From the beginning, we knew we wanted The Boroughs to feel equal parts scary, mysterious, exciting and emotional. The challenge was to create a world that could hold all of these different tones at once. Which is why it was so fun to work with the Duffer Brothers — the masters of balancing heart and horror.”

Who’s in The Boroughs cast?

• Alfred Molina (Spider-Man: No Way Home, Three Pines) plays Sam.

• Geena Davis (Thelma and Louise, A League of Their Own) plays Renee.

• Alfre Woodard (Clemency, Salem’s Lot) plays Judy.

• Denis O’Hare (American Horror Story,This Is Us) plays Wally.

• Clarke Peters (The Wire, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) plays Art.

• Bill Pullman (The Sinner, Independence Day) plays Jack.

• Jena Malone (Love Lies Bleeding, The Hunger Games) plays Claire.

• Carlos Miranda (Station 19, Vida) plays Paz.

• Seth Numrich (Under the Banner of Heaven, Turn) plays Blaine.

• Alice Kremelberg (The Sinner, Renegade Nell) plays Anneliese.

• Rafael Casal (Loki, Blindspotting) plays Neil.

• Dee Wallace (E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Cujo) plays Grace.

• Ed Begley Jr. (Young Sheldon, Better Call Saul) plays Edward.

• Jane Kaczmarek (Malcom in the Middle, The Changeling) plays Lilly.

• Eric Edelstein (Twin Peaks: The Return, Minx) plays Hank.

• Mousa Hussein Kraish (American Gods, Your Lucky Day) plays Dr. McGinnis.

• Beth Bailey (Outer Range, Manhattan, The Harder They Fall) plays Kayleigh.

Where was The Boroughs filmed?

Although The Boroughs is set in a retirement community in New Mexico, it was also filmed there, with production taking place in Albuquerque.

But this is not just a case of clever camera angles. Much of the show’s charming, and slightly eerie, community was specially built for the series.

Production designer Ruth Ammon and her team created an entire world from the ground up. In fact, eight houses were constructed on a back lot to form Sam’s cul‑de‑sac. The show’s “downtown” area, including The Boroughs itself and its shops, was also purpose-built.

Co‑creator Jeffrey Addiss has said that the level of detail is remarkable, explaining that the shops were fully functional. You could even walk in and switch on the coffee machines. Every detail of the community was carefully considered to make it feel authentic and lived in.

His fellow creator, Will Matthews, also praised Ammon’s work, noting that as writers, you do not always stop to think about who will physically build the places you imagine, until someone like Ruth comes along with a vision and brings it beautifully to life.

When and where can I watch The Boroughs?

All eight episodes of The boroughs are available to stream on Netflix now.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Channel 4’s Falling may tell an emotional and complicated love story between a Catholic priest and a nun, but viewers are just as captivated by the drama’s stunning filming locations.

The six-part series, created by Adolescence writer Jack Thorne as his “first ever love story”, stars Keeley Hawes as Anna and Paapa Essiedu as David and was filmed across Bristol and Wales, using everything from busy city streets to historic religious buildings.

Here’s where Falling was really filmed.

Where was Falling filmed?

Falling was primarily filmed in Bristol, Cardiff and across South Wales.

Unlike many TV dramas that focus on Bristol’s postcard landmarks, Falling takes a more understated approach.

Writer Jack Thorne, who grew up in the city, wanted the series to spotlight areas that rarely get attention on screen. Rather than centring famous tourist spots, the drama spends much of its time in residential neighbourhoods and community spaces that feel authentic to David’s world.

That more grounded style helps Falling feel personal and realistic throughout.

Where is Anna’s convent in Falling?

Many of Anna’s convent scenes were shot at Ewenny Priory in Bridgend, Wales.

Dating back to the 1100s, the historic building is known for its striking Norman architecture and peaceful gardens. It’s also one of the oldest locations used in the series, helping give Anna’s storyline its calm and reflective atmosphere. Throughout the drama, viewers can spot the priory’s stone archways, church interiors and scenic grounds.

The location has become increasingly popular with TV productions in recent years, with series including A Discovery of Witches and Young Sherlock also filming there.

Where was David’s church filmed?

Cardiff was another major filming base for Falling.

St German’s Church in the city was used as David’s church, while St David’s Shopping Centre appears during one of Anna’s rare moments away from convent life.

The production also reportedly used quieter areas across South Wales for scenes connected to Anna’s religious community.

More Falling filming locations

Not every location in Falling was disguised for TV.

Weston-super-Mare’s Grand Pier appears as itself in the series, while Golden Valley Playing Fields in Nailsea was used for some outdoor moments between Anna and David.

Several indoor scenes are also believed to have been filmed at Bristol’s Bottle Yard Studios, which has hosted productions including Sherlock, Poldark and Wolf Hall.

All six episodes of Falling are available to stream on Channel 4.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Actress Keeley Hawes stars in a brand new channel 4 drama Falling, a powereful witty and emotionally charged story about faith, desire and the risks of following your heart. Written by BAFTA winner Jack Thorne, the six-part series focuses on Anna (Keeley Hawes), a devoted nun, and David (Paapa Essiedu), a Catholic priest, whose lives are defined by sacred vows until an unexpected connection begins to unravel everything they thought they understood about love and devotion. Directed by Peter Hoar, Falling is a beautifully observed exploration of the pull between duty and longing. Here, Keeley tells us what we can expect from this compelling drama.

Why did Falling appeal to you?

'Because at its heart, it’s a love story – beautifully observed, unsentimental and very tender. The characters are so well drawn, and I have wanted to work with Jack Thorne for a long time. I was also intrigued that he’d never written a love story. He has created something very special.'

What did you know about the life of a nun?

'I grew up opposite a convent in central London, so I saw the comings and goings. It was beautiful but mysterious, with a very high wall. I knew as much as anybody, which is very little, but I was lucky enough to speak at length to a former nun who "jumped over the wall" and left. That was incredibly helpful. Jack had also done lots of research, so it was all in the scripts.'

What’s Anna like when we meet her?

'She’s very content. She has spent more of her life in the convent than out of it, and the nuns are her family. She is married to God, as David is, and neither of them is expecting this. That’s why it’s so heartbreaking. They’ve given themselves completely, so it’s a real tussle for them.'

What happens when she meets David?

'They have a moment where their hands touch. It’s not that she’s looking for a way out, so much as it’s a chemical reaction to David specifically.'

Why is David right for her?

'They’re a great intellectual match and live parallel lives, occasionally coming together for these extraordinary, long scenes. Working with Paapa made it even more special.'

How does Anna deal with her feelings?

'She’s very cut and dried, straight and honest. She says what’s on her mind, which is shocking, certainly to David. But falling in love for her brings huge guilt. Being a nun is like being in a marriage; you’ve forsaken everything else. To question that is unthinkable. She’s walking away from her family, her home, with nothing but the clothes she’s wearing. It’s like a bereavement, and yet it’s also the most wonderful thing.'

When and where can I watch Falling?

The release date for Falling is Tuesday 19th May. You can watch it at 9pm on Channel 4.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Channel 4’s Falling has quickly got viewers talking thanks to its emotional storyline and quietly intense central romance, but many fans are now wondering whether the drama is actually based on a true story.

The six-part series stars Keeley Hawes as Anna, a devoted nun whose life begins to change after she forms an unexpected connection with Catholic priest David, played by Paapa Essiedu.

As the pair grow closer, both are forced to confront difficult questions about faith, love and the lives they’ve committed themselves to.

But while Falling feels deeply personal and believable, the story itself is fictional.

What inspired Falling?

Although the drama is fictional, Jack Thorne has revealed the original spark behind it came from a real article.

Speaking about the idea, Thorne explained that his long-time collaborator and executive producer George Faber sent him a piece about a nun who had fallen in love with a priest.

“We use none of the detail of that in Falling,” Thorne said, “but we thought there was something very interesting there about faith and love that would allow us to tell a slightly unusual story.”

Rather than adapting the situation directly, Thorne used it as a starting point to explore bigger ideas about devotion, belief and emotional connection.

The deeper themes behind the drama

For Jack, the series became less about forbidden romance and more about exploring the emotional reality of religious life and the importance of community, care and human connection.

To help shape the story, he carried out extensive research and spoke to people connected to the church to better understand prayer, devotion and the responsibilities that come with religious life.

One part of the research that particularly stayed with him was the idea that prayer sits at the centre of everything — not simply as ritual, but as a way of supporting and caring for others.

The series also touches on emotional moments involving grief and last rites, which are presented not just through religion, but through compassion and love.

Keeley Hawes and Paapa Essiedu on the love story

For Keeley Hawes, Falling stood out for its tenderness and emotional honesty, with the actor praising Jack Thorne’s writing as “beautifully observed, unsentimental and very tender”.

She added that the story felt “very special” and unlike anything she had read before.

Paapa Essiedu, meanwhile, said the relationship between Anna and David is built through subtle, human moments rather than big romantic gestures.

He explained that it’s often the smallest interactions that linger and grow in importance over time - something that reflects how relationships develop in real life.

Paapa also spoke to members of the clergy during his preparation, helping him understand the emotional complexity behind the priesthood and faith.

So, is Falling based on a true story?

No, Falling is not based on a true story.

However, the Channel 4 drama was inspired by a real article that explored the idea of a nun and a priest falling in love.

From there, Jack Thorne developed a fictional story exploring faith, devotion, love and the difficult choices that can come when those worlds collide.

All episodes of Falling are available to stream on Channel 4.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Line of Duty star Keeley Hawes is taking the lead in Falling, Channel 4's highly anticipated upcoming drama, alongside Paapa Essiedu, known for I May Destroy You, Babies, and the upcoming Harry Potter remake.

Created by Adolescence writer Jack Thorne and produced by the team behind It's A Sin (which Keeley also featured in), Falling explores a passionate and complex romance where the characters are torn between faith, desire, and moral boundaries.

What will Falling on Channel 4 be about?

The six-part series is the writer's "first ever love story" about a devoted nun and a Catholic priest who find themselves falling for each other.

"Both are deeply committed to their work in the church and in their community. Neither are expected to fall in love. But when they do, both are forced to wrestle with what it means for them, their vows, and their relationship with God.", the synopsis reads.

Cast of Falling on Channel 4

Keeley Hawes is "thrilled to be taking on the role of Anna," the nun, and is "so looking forward" to bringing "the beautiful scripts to life.” The prolific actress is best known for her iconic role as Lindsay Denton in Line of Duty and for leading the dramas Bodyguard, The Durrells, and, most recently, Miss Austen.

Meanwhile, stage and screen actor Paapa Essiedu from I May Destroy You and The Capture, will be playing David, the priest. He aid that the drama "is a story that has Jack Thorne’s singular talent of mining the sublime out of the ordinary running all the way through".

Alongside the leads is a cast including Rakie Ayola (The Pact, Grace), Jason Watkins (Coma, McDonald and Dodds), Niamh Cusack (The Virtues, Heartbeat), Adrian Scarborough (Gavin and Stacey), David Dawson (My Policeman, The Last Kingdom), Susan Brown (Mr Bates vs The Post Office), Sandra Voe (Howards End, Vera Drake) and introducing TV newcomers, Holly Rhys and Shayde Sinclair.

Does Falling have a release date?

Filming for the new drama is currently underway in Bristol and Wales, so there's no release date yet, but we'll update this page when we know more!

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for more celeb news? Click here to keep our interviews and TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Paapa Essiedu is set to become one of television’s biggest stars after being cast as Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series.

While some viewers are only just discovering him, the British actor has already built up an impressive list of TV and theatre credits, including recent Channel 4 drama Falling alongside Keeley Hawes.

Here’s everything to know about the actor, from his biggest roles to his life away from the screen.

What TV shows and films has Paapa Essiedu been in?

Before landing the role of Snape, Paapa Essiedu had already become a familiar face on British television.

Many fans will recognise him from Michaela Coel’s acclaimed BBC drama I May Destroy You, where he played Kwame. He also appeared in Black Mirror episode Demon 79, earning praise for his charismatic performance as Gaap.

Other major credits include Babies, The Lazarus Project, Gangs of London, The Capture and Press.

More recently, he has starred opposite Keeley Hawes in Falling, written by Jack Thorne of Adolescence, which follows the emotional relationship between a priest and a nun.

Paapa has previously worked with Jack Thorne on another Channel 4 drama called Kiri, alongside Sarah Lancashire.

Why is Paapa Essiedu playing Snape?

Paapa has been cast as Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter television adaptation.

The character was famously played by Alan Rickman in the original film series, making it one of the most iconic roles in the franchise.

Following the announcement, the actor was met with both excitement and backlash online, including racist abuse directed at the casting.

He addressed the response in an interview, recalling the severity of the messages he received: “The reality is that if I look at Instagram I will see somebody saying they’ll come and kill me.”

Despite this, the actor said he remains focused on the role and determined not to be distracted by negativity. He also shared that he hopes younger audiences will see themselves represented in the wizarding world.

How old is Paapa Essiedu?

Paapa Essiedu is 35 years old.

He was born in London in 1990 and grew up in Walthamstow.

Where is Paapa Essiedu from?

Paapa Essiedu was born in Southwark, London, and raised in east London by his mother after his father returned to Ghana during his childhood.

Paapa Essiedu on losing his parents

His father, Tony, later died when Paapa was 14.

Six years later, while he was in his first year of drama school at 20, his mother died from breast cancer.

He has spoken openly about losing both of his parents at a young age and how it shaped his outlook on life and work.

Speaking to The Guardian, the actor said: “I started going to therapy. Maybe only on the third attempt did it take hold for me. I still go every week, though not really to talk about my grief any more.

“When you lose people, you’re forced to fill in the gaps. When my mum died I was still coming into an understanding of what her experience was like. As a child you’re just like: ‘That’s my mum, that’s what my mum does.’ So I’ve filled in a lot of the context of her experience as a single mum, as a black woman, after the fact.”

Is Paapa Essiedu married?

Yes, Paapa Essiedu married actor and comedian Rosa Robson in 2023.

Rosa is known for appearing in series including Extraordinary, The Outlaws and Buffering.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for more celeb news? Click here to keep our interviews and TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Dame Prue Leith is a culinary extraordinaire who has been gracing our television screens with her expertise and eye-catching wardrobe since the 70s.

And while no one would blame Prue for applying the brakes on what has been an incredibly fulfilling and long-lasting career – particularly considering she stepped away from her nine-year stint on The Great British Bake Off in January – she is showing zero signs of doing so. Her cooking show Prue Leith’s Cotswold Kitchen has been recommissioned, she recently travelled to her motherland South Africa with another former Bake Off star, Sandy Toksvig, for a travel show, and there is plenty of jet-setting on the agenda with husband John Playfair.

Chatting to Yours at the National Portrait Gallery café, looking typically vibrant in pink and orange, she reveals, ‘I will miss the Bake Off team but not immediately because I'm filling in for a few programmes they want me to do. I might do the Great American Bake Off if the dates work. I've had nine great years with them, so we're parting as friends – and slowly.’

Prue – who is mum to son Danny and daughter Li-Da from her marriage with the late Rayne Kruger – continues, ‘One of the reasons I gave up Bake Off was so that I could have more of a summer – and more holidays. I've already booked a week in France with all my grandchildren and their parents, so that'll be fun. I hope to have three weeks in Italy with John, driving down the Puglia coast. John is a great believer in going away for three weeks, because he says, “You can't really see anything in less than three weeks.”’

Prue Leith married retired fashion designer John in 2016, 14 years after she lost Rayne to emphysema.

Giving advice to anyone fearing that it’s too late for love, she says contemplatively, ‘Love is all around – and it doesn't have to be romantic love. It doesn't have to be a partner. But I do think love is absolutely essential to happiness - as long as there's something that gets you up in the morning, that makes you interested and delighted. It really needs to be linked to other people. I think there are very few people who can live totally happily on their own - it's a very rare talent. Not one that I’ve got.’

The longevity and versatility of Prue’s career is nothing to be scoffed at. After moving to the UK in the 60s, she spearheaded a catering company, and not long after opened her restaurant Leith’s, which went on to earn a coveted Michelin star. As the years progressed, Prue turned her to novel writing and TV presenting, even serving as the chancellor of Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh for eight years until 2024.

‘I wish I'd taken a bit more trouble to tackle things that I'm hopeless at,’ the star – who lives in Moreton-in-Marsh with John – says, as the topic turns to regrets. ‘People think I've had nothing but success - because I'm very quick to tell them about the successes but I don't tell them about the failures.

‘I once took a contract for all the catering in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. I had this idea that people would love to have a plate of smoked salmon and a glass of Chardonnay. At the time, the British public were deeply into a slimy burger out of a van and a plastic cup of horrible coffee - they didn't want anything decent. I lost a lot of money!’

As an octogenarian, Prue readily and gladly admits that a lot of ‘us oldies’ are ‘having a great time’. And even though her book publishers deemed her new book title, Being Old, as having ‘negative’ connotations, she couldn’t disagree more.

‘My biggest life lesson is not looking back,’ she tells us. ‘I'm a great believer in looking forward and not dwelling on things. You can spoil the present by keening what's gone wrong. One of the great things about being old is that you don't care anymore. Looking forward is not such a long horizon, perhaps, but you've got some time.’ Adding what she would tell her younger self, she offers, ‘I’ve had such a great life. I did it right. Go for it, woman.’

Prue recently marked Celebration Day – an opportunity that encouraged the nation to honour those who are no longer with us.

She says, ‘We tend to think that when people are dead, that's the end of it. Everybody will be very sympathetic if you've lost somebody, and then they stop talking about them altogether.

‘I think Celebration Day gives you an excuse to talk about people that have gone who you admired or loved. I owe a lot to my younger brother. He was always the one who kept my feet on the ground.’

Dame Prue Leith invites the nation to mark a memory for Celebration Day's Big Toast, at 7pm, on Monday 25th May. For more information, visit Celebration Day.

Millie Payne is Senior Writer & Editor at Bauer Media, working across titles including heat, Closer, Grazia, Bella and Yours. She writes and edits celebrity interviews, features and entertainment news for both online and print.

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We have teamed up with camping retailer Outdoor World Direct to give one lucky reader a chance to win one of its fantastic, premium Dometic Santorini FTK 4x8 TC Tents, ideal for family camping and adventures this summer. The tent is made from technical cotton designed to reduce condensation and offer better protection from the elements. It’s also inflatable, so pitching is quick and easy. The spacious interior offers plenty of living and sleeping space, while the large, sheltered canopy to the front is ideal for cooking and relaxing. Family-run Outdoor World Direct was established in 1999. Its newly expanded Yorkshire showroom is the largest in the north of England, and the website is fully stocked for those preferring to order online. The friendly team is on hand to help you find the right equipment for your needs, whether that be in store or over the phone/email, Outdoor World Direct prides itself on exceptional customer service.

Visit: outdoorworlddirect.co.uk

Closing Date: 15 June 2026

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Rivals star Katherine Parkinson has opened up about a frightening experience from earlier in her career, revealing she was once attacked while walking home after a theatre performance.

The actor, 48, who recently won the BAFTA for Best Female Comedy Performance for Here We Go, spoke about the incident on Elizabeth Day’s How to Fail podcast, explaining it happened while she was working on a stage production outside London and staying in budget accommodation.

She said that in 2005, she was walking home with a colleague one evening when they were approached by a man, and things quickly escalated after he became involved in an argument with her co-star.

Katherine said she stepped in to try to calm the situation, but it turned violent.

“I said, ‘Leave her alone,’ and he knocked me out cold, broke my nose and everything else,” she recalled.

She added that the man was later arrested and convicted of actual bodily harm.

Looking back, Katherine admitted the experience stayed with her, particularly how she felt in the aftermath. She said she struggled with a sense of shame and found it difficult to process what had happened at the time.

During the podcast, the Rivals actor became emotional as she remembered being in hospital and overhearing comments that made her question how the situation was being viewed by others.

She explained that, over time, she’s come to realise those feelings of self-blame weren’t fair, but they did stay with her for a long time.

The IT Crowd star also reflected on how becoming a parent later in life changed the way she thinks about safety and vulnerability, especially when it comes to her own children.

"I did have quite a serious assault that had repercussions, I'm not going to be cross with myself for being a really neurotic mum" she told Eizabeth Day.

"I'm giving myself, now I'm 48, just a bit more licence to realise that your experience informs who you are… your recalibration in a world where I used to just feel so confident and sure. Unfortunately, a literal smack in the face changes you."

She added that attitudes towards difficult experiences were different when she was younger, with more of an expectation to just “get on with it” rather than talk things through.

While she doesn’t often speak about the incident, she said revisiting it now has helped her understand it from a different perspective.

Katherine Parkinson spoke on Elizabeth Day’s How to Fail podcast, available on all major podcast platforms.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Loose Women and Birds of a Feather star Linda Robson has shared a candid update on her health after undergoing major surgery, revealing she was left terrified during her time in intensive care.

The TV presenter, best known for her long-standing role on the ITV daytime panel show, was taken seriously ill after gallstones caused damage to her pancreas. She later underwent surgery and spent time recovering in intensive care.

Recalling the experience, she admitted how frightening it felt at the time.

“I was petrified in intensive care. I thought I was going to die,” she told The Sun. “I had to have most of my pancreas removed because there were two tumours in a difficult position.”

She also explained that further scans and tests were needed during her hospital stay, describing the ordeal as overwhelming.

Despite the seriousness of her condition, she said the support of her family helped her through the most difficult moments.

“Seeing my kids’ faces got me through it,” she said. “They were at the hospital all the time. They’ve been amazing.”

Now on the road to recovery, she says she is feeling much more positive and focused on enjoying life again after a challenging period.

“I had to take a back seat for a little while to get better, but I’m fine now,” she added. “I’m on the mend. I want to make the most of life.”

She also shared that the experience has left her feeling more confident and appreciative of everyday things.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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If BBC One’s Two Weeks in August has you dreaming of a Mediterranean getaway, you’re probably not alone. The new drama starring Jessica Raine is packed with sunshine, hidden beaches and stunning sea views as a group of old friends reunite on a Greek island.

But while the series looks every bit like a holiday in Greece, viewers may be surprised to learn where it was actually filmed.

Where was Two Weeks in August filmed?

Although the drama is set on a Greek island, Two Weeks in August was actually filmed in Malta and Gozo.

The BBC series uses the islands’ coastal scenery, quiet harbours and rocky beaches to create the feeling of a laid-back Mediterranean holiday, even though production never filmed in Greece itself.

Writer Catherine Shepherd revealed that Greece was originally considered, but Malta eventually became the better option for filming while still giving the show the atmosphere they wanted.

Can you stay in the villa from Two Weeks in August?

Much of the drama takes place inside the friends’ holiday villa, where tensions slowly begin to rise throughout the trip.

According to writer Catherine Shepherd, finding the right property took time because many traditional Maltese homes looked too distinctive on screen. Production designer Jon Henson eventually found a farmhouse that could be adapted for filming, with extra features - including the swimming pool - added specially for the series.

However, viewers won’t be able to book a stay there. After filming wrapped, the set was dismantled and the farmhouse was returned to its original state.

Where in Malta was Two Weeks in August filmed?

Several scenes were filmed on Gozo, Malta’s quieter sister island, which helped create the more isolated atmosphere seen in the series.

Locations included dramatic cliffside areas around Dwejra Bay, as well as harbour scenes filmed near Mġarr ix-Xini, a small inlet known for its clear water and peaceful surroundings.

Speaking about filming there, Shepherd explained that the production team wanted locations that felt more remote and untouched.

Even though filming took place in Malta, Greece still plays an important role in the story itself.

Throughout the series, there are references to Greek mythology as Zoe begins to emotionally unravel during the holiday. Catherine Shepherd has said her own memories of visiting Greek islands helped inspire the show’s setting and themes.

The mythology elements also help give the drama a slightly darker and more emotional edge beneath the sunshine and holiday atmosphere.

Two Weeks in August begins on BBC One at 9pm on the 23rd May and is also available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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In this stressful world the ‘feel amazing’ app is a place to relax, remain calm and find time to let your worries float away. Yours has teamed up with hypnotherapist Ailsa Frank to give three lucky readers a two-year subscription to her award-winning ‘feel amazing’ hypnotherapy app. It’s the perfect pick me-up with short recordings to fit into your busy life; you can choose from more than 60 titles, including recordings for the whole family. Begin today to make deep and lasting changes.

Visit: ailsafrank.com

Closing Date: 1 June 2026

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V33 Extreme Protection Woodstain is guaranteed for 12 years. In addition, its formula is so tough that only two coats are normally required, compared to three for standard equivalents. Three lucky winners will each win two tins of V33 Extreme Protection Woodstain in Clear. The woodstain is ideal for areas such as outdoor cladding, window frames, doors, garden buildings or other vertical wood surfaces, such as pergolas that need to be properly protected from sun and rain for the coming year and beyond.

Visit: v33.co.uk

Closing Date: 15 June 2026

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More and more of us are looking for ways to be greener at home. DenTek is highlighting how small switches in your daily oral care routine can support the planet’s health. Its eco range makes it easier to choose products that are both good for your smile and the environment. Dentek is offering two readers the chance to each win a bundle of DenTek’s sustainable oral hygiene products, plus a £100 gift voucher to redeem online for a tree of your choice delivered straight to your door! Why not try a small eco swap that makes a big difference.

Visit: dentek-eu.com

Closing Date: 15 June 2026

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If you’re looking for something good to watch to get you in the mood for summer, BBC One’s Two Weeks in August might be one to add to your list - a holiday reunion that doesn’t quite go to plan.

Here's everything you need to know about the new drama.

What is Two Weeks in August about?

The series follows a group of old university friends who reunite for a long-awaited summer holiday on a sun-soaked Greek island.

What begins as the perfect escape - sunshine, cocktails and time together in a luxury villa - slowly starts to shift as reality kicks in.

The friends are now at very different stages of life, and as marriage, children and personal struggles come into focus, old dynamics begin to resurface in unexpected ways.

Its star, Jessica Raine, sums it up simply: “It’s a group holiday gone wrong.”

Cast of Two Weeks in August

Call the Midwife star Jessica Raine leads the cast as Zoe, a mum and teacher quietly holding everything together while feeling the pressure build.

Damien Molony (The Split, Bergerac) plays her husband Dan, whose mental health struggles begin to affect their relationship during the trip. “I didn’t know it was a comedy at first,” he said. “It felt quite tragic.”

Antonia Thomas (The Good Doctor, Misfits), Nicholas Pinnock (Marcella, Fortitude), Leila Farzad (Better, I Hate Suzie) and Hugh Skinner (Twenty Twenty Six, Fleabag) also star in the BBC drama, playing members of the friend group as tensions rise and old friendships start to shift.

When is Two Weeks in August on TV?

Two Weeks in August will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday 23rd May.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

If, like me, you’ve been completely gripped by Netflix’s Legends, the new crime drama following Customs officers who went undercover to take down two of the biggest drug gangs in UK history, then you’ll already know it doesn’t just deliver on tension. It also boasts an absolutely killer soundtrack.

Set in the 1990s, the series is steeped in the sounds of the decade, with director Bradley Hood carefully curating tracks that capture both the energy and the edge of the era. From euphoric club anthems to brooding indie classics, the music perfectly mirrors the mood of the show.

Bradley has spoken about being deliberate in how the decade was portrayed on screen. Rather than leaning into soft-focus nostalgia, he wanted to reflect the vibrancy of the time, explaining:

“I didn’t want to look back at the ’90s through a sepia lens. From what I recall of the ’90s, it was vibrant and exciting; tracksuits and pills and dance music. I wanted to capture that exuberant nature…”

Music wasn’t just important for viewers at home, either. It also played a key role behind the scenes for the Legends cast. To help the actors get into the mindset of their dual identities, Bradley used songs as a character-building tool.

“One other little thing I did early on was ask all the actors to send me a couple of songs each: one they’d listen to at home, which was more of a guilty pleasure, then one that they’d play in front of a crowd, in their legend. It was a nice way to see where they were coming from.”

So, what songs made the final cut? Here’s every track featured in the Netflix series.

Legends soundtrack: Every song featured in the Netflix series

Episode 1 - Could You Offer More

Set You Free - N’Trance
Unbelievable - EMF
Cherry-coloured Funk - Cocteau Twins
The Gonzo - Lost
Made of Stone - The Stone Roses
April Skies - The Jesus & Mary Chain

Episode 2 - Alliance

Hallelujah [Club Mix] - Happy Mondays
Killer - Adamski feat Seal
Baby I Don’t Care - Transvision Vamp
Personal Jesus - Depeche Mode

Episode 3 - This is Liverpool

Where Love Lives - Alison Limerick
Everybody’s Free (To Feel Good) - Rozalla

Episode 4 - The War on Drugs

Irresistible Force - Inspiral Carpets
I Wanna Be Adored - The Stone Roses

Episode 5 - Old Kings

A Forest - The Cure
Infinity - Guru Josh

Episode 6 - Legends Never Die

Hit the North, Part 1 - The Fall
Loose Fit (Remastered Version) - Happy Mondays
Motorcycle Emptiness - Manic Street Preachers

You can watch all episodes of Legends now on Netflix and listen to the soundtrack on Spotify.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

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Channel 4’s Falling sets the stage for a love story that’s anything but straightforward, unfolding inside a world built on devotion, discipline and strict vows. At its heart are two people who were never meant to cross that line: Anna, a committed nun played by Keeley Hawes, and David, a Catholic priest played by Paapa Essiedu.

Created by BAFTA-winning writer Jack Thorne (Adolescence, Kiri), the drama asks what happens when faith and feeling collide and whether love can survive when both lives are built on sacrifice, duty and certainty.

Here’s a closer look at the cast bringing Falling to life…

Keeley Hawes as Anna

Who is Anna? Anna is a devoted nun who has spent most of her life living in a convent, where her faith and the other sisters have become her entire world. She is played by Keeley Hawes, who said Anna is “very content” with the life she has built and is “not expecting to fall in love” when viewers first meet her. However, everything changes after she meets David, played by Paapa Essiedu, with Hawes revealing the pair share “a chemical reaction”.

What else has Keeley Hawes been in? Keeley Hawes is one of Britain’s most recognisable TV stars, with a career spanning hit dramas, thrillers and comedies. She’s perhaps best known for playing DI Lindsay Denton in Line of Duty, as well as Home Secretary Julia Montague in Bodyguard.

She has also starred in Spooks, The Durrells, It’s A Sin and Stonehouse alongside her husband Matthew Macfadyen. More recently, she appeared in Netflix thriller Scoop and voiced Lara Croft in Tomb Raider.

Paapa Essiedu as David

Who is David? David is a charismatic priest trying to rebuild his life after a tragic incident led him to struggle with guilt and alcoholism. Played by Paapa Essiedu, David was once considered a rising star in the church before moving to Bristol following the death of “a young man” who died “on David’s watch”. His world is turned upside down when he meets Anna, with Essiedu describing their romance as growing from “very small interactions that become bigger in one’s mind or heart”, while revealing David is drawn to Anna’s “spirit” and her willingness to “take a leap of faith”.

What else has Paapa Essiedu been in? Paapa Essiedu has appeared in a string of acclaimed TV dramas and films over the past decade. He is perhaps best known for starring in I May Destroy You alongside Michaela Coel, as well as playing George in The Lazarus Project and Issac Turner in The Capture.

Viewers may also recognise him from Gangs of London, Murder on the Orient Express, Black Mirror and Babies. Away from television, he has also earned huge praise for his stage work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, including playing Hamlet in a groundbreaking production of Hamlet.

Rakie Ayola as Muriel

Who is Muriel? Muriel is a warm-hearted hospital worker who opens her home to Anna after she leaves the convent, quickly becoming one of the most important people in her new life. Played by Rakie Ayola, Muriel is described as “pragmatic”, “open-hearted and generous”, with Ayola revealing her character is fascinated by Anna because, despite being intelligent and grown-up, there is still “so much” she doesn’t know about the outside world. Muriel also finds herself navigating her own heartbreak after her husband leaves her, but still welcomes Anna into her life without judgement.

What else has Rakie Ayola been in? Rakie Ayola has built an impressive career across television, film and theatre, becoming a familiar face in both long-running dramas and standout one-off roles. She’s well known for playing Kyla Tyson in BBC medical drama Holby City, where she became a fan favourite over several years.

On stage, she earned acclaim in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, while on screen she has continued to take on powerful roles in projects like The Pact and You Don’t Know Me. She also appeared in Death in Paradise and starred in the BBC film Anthony, where she portrayed the mother of Stephen Lawrence in a poignant alternative-history story.

Sophie Stone as Susan

Who is Susan? Susan is David’s older sister and a key figure in his life as he tries to rebuild after personal turmoil. She is played by Sophie Stone, who describes Susan as “maternal, resilient, selfless and direct”, someone who had to “grow up fast” but doesn’t dwell on the past. Fiercely protective of her brother, she often sees “his patterns of behaviour before anyone else” and always puts his wellbeing first. Although not religious herself, Susan respects David’s faith even if she doesn’t fully understand it, with Sophie noting they’ve often been “the love they’ve needed from their parents, for each other”.

What else has Sophie Stone been in? Sophie Stone is a British actress with a strong background across both television and theatre. She is best known on screen for appearing in Doctor Who, where she played Cass in a two-part storyline, and she has also featured in The Crown and Shetland.

More recently, she has appeared in The Chelsea Detective, alongside guest roles in long-running UK dramas such as Casualty and Two Doors Down.

Niamh Cusack as Francesca

Who is Francesca? Francesca is the Abbess of Anna’s convent, and when we first meet her, there’s a noticeable tension in her relationship with Anna, hinting at some underlying conflict within the convent community.

What else has Niamh Cusack been in? A well-known member of the famous Cusack acting family, which includes her sisters Sinéad and Sorcha Cusack and other relatives across film and theatre.

She first became a household name as Dr Kate Rowan in Heartbeat, before going on to appear in a steady stream of acclaimed dramas, including The Tower and Big Mood. On the big screen, she has also featured in period and contemporary films such as Testament of Youth and We Live in Time.

Adrian Scarborough as Francis

Who is Francis? Francis is a fellow priest who becomes a trusted friend and confidant to David, offering support as he wrestles with his faith and his growing feelings for Anna

What else has Adrian Scarborough been in? Adrian Scarborough is one of those actors you’ll recognise instantly, with a long list of TV, film and theatre roles. He’s probably best known for his comedy turn in The Thick of It and as Kenny in Gavin & Stacey.

More recently, he’s been solving crimes in The Chelsea Detective, and he’s also popped up in big hits like Killing Eve and W1A. Alongside all that, he’s had a busy theatre career with the Royal National Theatre and various West End productions.

Jason Watkins as Peter

Who is Peter? Bishop Peter is a traditionalist who regularly butts heads with David over his more modern, progressive approach to church life. He sees David’s ideas as far too radical for the Catholic Church, especially something like funding a basketball court, which he dismisses as completely unrealistic.

What else has Jason Watkins been in? Jason Watkins is a well-known British actor who’s moved effortlessly between comedy and hard-hitting drama. Many viewers will recognise him as Simon Harwood in The Crown, a role that earned him widespread attention, or from his BAFTA-winning performance in The Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies.

He’s also appeared in popular series such as McDonald & Dodds, W1A, and Inside No. 9, showing his range from comedy to darker, more intense roles.

David Dawson as Phil

Who is Phil? Phil is a character in the new Channel 4 series, Falling.

What else has David Dawson been in? David Dawson is best known for his standout role as King Alfred in The Last Kingdom, where he became a fan favourite thanks to his intense and layered performance.

He also played Freddie in My Policeman alongside Harry Styles, and appeared in the acclaimed BBC drama Ripper Street. Earlier in his career, he featured in the political drama Peaky Blinders, further cementing his reputation for powerful, character-driven roles.

Full cast of Falling

Looking forward to watching Falling? Here's the official cast list:

• Keeley Hawes as Anna
• Paapa Essiedu as David
• Rakie Ayola as Susan
• Jason Watkins as Bishop Peter
• Niamh Cusack as Francesca
• Adrian Scarborough as Francis
• David Dawson as Phil
• Susan Brown as Muriel
• Sandra Voe as Gertrude
• Holly Rhys as Tina
• Shayde Sinclair as Bimpe
• June Watson as Polly
• Kerrie Hayes as Bianca
• Anthony Cozens as Charlie
• Jessica Temple as Carla
• Charles Dale as Father Clarey
• Tess Endacott-Isaeva as Lindsay
• Theia Eminyan as Molly

When does Falling air?

We have a release date! The first episode of Falling airs on Channel 4 on Tuesday 19th May, with all episodes available to stream on channel4.com.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have now officially stepped down from Strictly Come Dancing, bringing an end to one of the show’s most iconic presenting partnerships.

The pair previously announced their departure in an emotional message shared on social media, saying they had “loved working as a duo” and that leaving together “felt like the right time” after 14 years hosting the hit BBC show.

They also thanked the Strictly team behind the scenes, describing the series as an “absolute dream” and praising everyone involved in its long-running success.

With their exit now marking the end of an era, the BBC has confirmed a brand-new presenting line-up for the series.

Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe will take over hosting duties, becoming the first trio ever to front Strictly Come Dancing.

The unexpected combination sees television presenter Emma Willis join long-time Strictly professional Johannes and comedian Josh Widdicombe as the show moves into a fresh chapter.

BBC bosses say the trio bring a mix of warmth, humour and experience, with producers praising their chemistry and energy as the show prepares to return later this year.

Strictly Come Dancing will continue to be judged by Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Clarkson’s Farm has unveiled an emotional first look at its upcoming fifth series and it shows Jeremy Clarkson opening up about the serious heart emergency that left him needing urgent surgery.

The 66-year-old broadcaster revealed in October 2024 that he had been rushed to hospital after doctors warned he could have been just days away from death. He later underwent emergency surgery to have a stent fitted after three blocked arteries stopped his heart from receiving enough blood.

Now, a year and a half on, viewers will see the health scare unfold on screen when the new series launches on Prime Video on 3 June. Similarly to season four, the new series will roll out in stages, with four episodes launching on Wednesday, 3 June, followed by two more on 10 June and the final instalment on 17 June.

A newly released trailer includes footage of Jeremy in hospital with ECG wires attached to his chest. After recovering, he is seen explaining the severity of the situation to farm manager Kaleb Cooper.

“You’ve got three arteries that feed your heart to keep it pumping,” he says. “My heart wasn’t getting any blood.”

As well as documenting his health battle, the new series will follow Jeremy as he attends the farmers’ protest in London in November 2024. Thousands gathered to oppose changes to inheritance tax for farmers announced in the Budget.

Despite strict advice from his doctor to rest his voice, Jeremy tells agricultural adviser Charlie Ireland: “The doctor told me not to speak. Amazon’s told me not to speak.” True to form, however, the former Top Gear presenter goes on to address the crowds anyway.

Back on the farm, there are lighter moments too. Fans will see Jeremy trial a driverless tractor – much to Kaleb’s alarm. “That’s basically taking my job,” he jokes. But his fears prove short-lived when the high-tech machinery promptly breaks down. “That went well,” he adds dryly.

The trailer also hints at more heartbreak for Diddly Squat Farm. Jeremy is informed that the farm has been placed “under restrictions” following a bovine tuberculosis outbreak. In October 2024, he shared the devastating news that the first calf ever born on the farm had been put down while pregnant with twins after testing positive for TB.

Sharing his sadness on social media at the time, he described the loss as “so sad”.

Jeremy originally bought Diddly Squat Farm in 2008 as an investment but began running it himself in 2019 with the help of farming experts. The first series of Clarkson’s Farm aired in 2021 and quickly became one of Prime Video’s biggest hits, winning over viewers with its honest portrayal of modern farming – and Jeremy’s steep learning curve.

Season five promises more drama, emotion and, of course, plenty of classic Clarkson humour when it arrives this June.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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ITV has worked with Carrie Johnson on its upcoming drama Believe Me, which explores the experiences of victims of serial offender John Worboys.

The four-part series follows the impact of the case and the experiences of the women involved, as they came forward and pursued justice through the courts.

Carrie Johnson, a Conservative Party press team member and wife of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, was one of the victims in the case and contributed to the development of the drama alongside other survivors.

The series has been created with input from those affected, aiming to reflect their experiences and the wider impact of the case.

Actress Miriam Petche portrays Carrie in the drama, while Daniel Mays plays John Worboys.

Carrie waived her right to anonymity during the legal process and later gave evidence in court.

Speaking about the drama, Carrie said: “I hope Believe Me serves as a wake-up call to the police, the CPS and the parole board. Far too often, women and girls are failed by the very institutions meant to protect them.

“The treatment of the victims in this case was truly shameful. Reform matters but what we urgently need above all is a profound shift in culture.

“It takes enormous courage for women to come forward. They must know that when they do, they will be treated seriously and with respect, and that every effort will be made to ensure justice is done.”

The drama aims to highlight the importance of how victims are treated and the need for lasting change within the justice system.

All four episodes of Believe Me are available to watch on ITVX.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Channel 4’s upcoming drama Tip Toe is already shaping up to be one of the channel’s most talked-about new thrillers.

Created by It’s a Sin writer Russell T Davies, the five-part series stars Alan Cumming and David Morrissey as neighbours who have lived side by side in Manchester for almost 15 years. But as tensions rise and opinions become increasingly radicalised, their relationship spirals into something far more dangerous.

Set around Manchester’s Canal Street, Tip Toe explores the growing divisions and prejudices affecting modern communities, blending thriller elements with Russell's trademark dark humour and emotional storytelling.

Alan Cumming plays Leo, the vibrant owner of Canal Street bar Spit & Polish, while David Morrissey stars as Clive, his troubled next-door neighbour. The cast also includes Iz Hesketh, Shakeel Kimotho, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, Paul Rhys, Charlie Condou and Denise Welch.

Speaking about the project, Alan Cumming said: “The best things in life are worth waiting for, and the best people. Russell T Davies and I have been trying to work together for over 20 years.”

David Morrissey added: “It’s a privilege to be working with them both on this astonishing piece of work.”

When is Tip Toe on Channel 4?

Channel 4 has confirmed that Tip Toe will premiere at 9pm on the 31st May.

The five-part drama will air is also expected to be available to stream on Channel 4’s streaming platform.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Channel 4 has released first-look images for Number 10, Steven Moffat’s new drama set inside Britain’s most famous address, and it already looks chaotic.

The series, created by the Sherlock and Dracula writer, stars Rafe Spall (Trying, Under Salt Marsh) as the Prime Minister, Jenna Coleman (Doctor Who, Victoria) as Deputy Chief of Staff and Katherine Kelly (In Flight, Happy Valley) as Chief of Staff.

But this isn’t a straight political drama. Instead, Number 10 imagines Downing Street as a packed-out, messy building where everything is going wrong at once, from big political decisions to everyday disasters.

Channel 4 teases it as a place where “a hangover can start a war”, with a café in the basement, a broken lift, and staff squeezed across every floor trying to keep things under control.

A release date for Number 10 has not yet been announced.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Some holidays are about adventure, some are about togetherness, and sometimes, if you’re lucky, you find a spot that manages to offer both, with a splash of wild beauty thrown in for good measure. That’s exactly what we needed this year: a break to recharge with the whole family away from our home in Essex, but including grandma, who lives away from us in Folkestone.

So instead of squeezing into grandma’s guest bedroom and dividing chores, we decided to treat ourselves, and her, to something special. We checked into Cabu by the Sea, an eco-friendly collection of luxury cabins just 20 minutes from Folkestone in the windswept, beautiful St Mary’s Bay. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that Cabu is no ordinary seaside escape.

Boutique comforts with a seaside soul

Stepping through the doors of our two-bedroom cabin, the whole family slipped straight into relaxation mode. Cabu’s cabins are pure style-meets-cosy, reminiscent of a Shoreditch members’ club, but without the crowds or the fuss, a place where you can truly drop your bags, kick off your shoes, and breathe in that fresh sea air. The décor blends rustic Kentish charm with modern comforts: wooden floors, plenty of plush seating, stylish throws, and thoughtful eco-friendly details at every turn. We noticed right away there were no single-use plastics (so rare these days!), and all the kitchen supplies were sustainable.

The open-plan kitchen was decked out for proper family self-catering, including a full-sized fridge, wine cooler, and my personal delight, a proper butter dish. There was no hunting for teaspoons or wondering where to store things: everything screamed thoughtful comfort. A dining table meant we could all eat together and plenty of sofas to lounge on meant we could all chill together (even grandma, who declared the chairs as comfy as her own at home).

For sleeping arrangements, our eight-year-old daughter instantly claimed the top bunk, leaving her little brother bouncing excitedly below. We took the master double, which opened onto a generous deck running the length of the cabin, perfect for morning coffees as the bracing wind whipped over the dunes. Fluffy towels, cloud-soft dressing gowns, and beds that were perfect for kipping on after days at play completed the experience.

Central heating and a log burner kept us snug even when the weather turned wild outside. And yes, there was a TV, but, to the surprise of us all, it stayed mostly off. At Cabu, the outdoors draws you in, not the other way round.

Hot Tubs and heated pools

Of course, the highlight for all of us, adults, kids, and, secretly, grandma most of all, was the private hot tub. Each cabin’s tub is kept pristine, filled daily, and fragranced with gentle aromatherapy scents that drift through the cabin and invite you to relax. There is little more magical than watching wild rainbow skies and dramatic clouds over the bay while soaking in steaming, scented water.

But just as memorable as our spa-like soaks were the hours spent at Cabu’s heated outdoor pool and kids’ splash area. The communal pool is kept deliciously warm to 21 degrees, making it perfect for little ones and grown-ups, rain or shine. Our three-year-old plunged in fearlessly, with his big sister teaching him how to doggy paddle while grandma watched, G&T in hand, from the comfort of a sun lounger. What struck me most, as we swapped turns watching the kids, was the utter peace, you can chat with other families, or simply revel in the silence, broken only by the distant roar of the sea.

For those who fancy more adventure, miles of wild, windswept coastline are right at your cabin door. Beachcombing is a must and every day we brought back pockets of shells, pebbles, and even driftwood for crafting in the evenings. The weather can be wild in this part of Kent, but it lends the coast its drama. We saw rainbows slicing through sun and heavy sea mist, and on a clear day we all marvelled at the English Channel sparkling right up to the horizon.

The Cabu store and shared kitchen

Running out of supplies is never a worry at Cabu. The on-site store isn’t just practical, it’s pure temptation! From local produce to gifts for all occasions, we found all our self-catering needs met and then some. (Who knew heart-shaped goggles in every colour could cause such excitement?) The store also stocks a clever mix of essentials like toothbrush and swim trunks, and treats you never realised you needed until you’re here: freshly ground coffee, organic milk, and even ready-prepped pizza and BBQ packs for easy family meals.

Cabu’s communal Cabin Kitchen and sheltered BBQ area were a revelation. Evening feasts became an event, from sharing pizzas out of the huge wood-fired ovens to family barbecues (with veggie options and all the trimmings). We made new friends sharing s’mores and grilling marshmallows over crackling fires, while board games, giant Jenga, and ping pong tables kept everyone entertained. All of it is furnished with that distinctive Cabu flair: Scandi-inspired wood, nautical blues, and plush throws for chilly evenings.

Spa sanctuary: Serious pampering in the shepherd’s hut

Of course, even at the happiest family retreat, every parent needs a little ‘me time.’ Cabu’s Nature Spa, nestled in a cheery shepherd’s hut, proved the answer. Slipping away for a 75-minute Signature Deep Tissue Massage (£80) was a dream, my therapist expertly eased away travel tension with blended essential oils, leaving skin glowing and mind completely at peace. Other spa choices include:

Ayurvedic Massage (£65): A dry brushing and detoxifying experience, renowned for relaxing the mind and smoothing the skin.

Crystal Rose Facial (£65): A pampering ritual using Himalayan salt, rosehip oil, and quartz rollers, a blissful treat for tired faces.

Therapy slots can be booked in advance or after you arrive, making it easy to fit in some pampering while your partner, kids and grandparents wear themselves out in the pool or playroom!

Wildlife wonders: Port Lympne Reserve

No family holiday here is complete without a visit to nearby Port Lympne Reserve, Kent’s largest and wildest animal park and a must for young (and not-so-young) animal lovers. We booked one of their acclaimed safari experiences, where you jump aboard a jeep with one of the reserve’s expert rangers and rumble through open parkland straight out of an African adventure.

The highlight? An unforgettable chance to hand-feed giraffes, their long necks swooping gracefully above us as the kids giggled with glee. Our guide was a fount of stories, he helped us spot black rhino grazing, point out zebra and wildebeest, and explained the centre’s vital conservation work. The drive itself is an adventure, with rolling hills and big Kentish skies making it feel wonderfully wild.

Animal encounters here go beyond spectating: the ‘behind-the-scenes’ tours and feeding sessions are intimate and immersive, with friendly staff patiently answering curious children’s questions (and more than a few of mine). There’s plenty of time built in for photos and exploring, and they make the seriously slopy reserve more buggy (and, crucially, grandparent) friendly.

Beyond the safari, Port Lympne is home to tigers, gorillas, and even black bears, with play parks and picnic spots throughout. Don’t miss the on-site restaurants and, for the truly adventurous, glamping and treehouse stays within the park itself.

Folkestone Triennial: Art and adventure on the seafront

Our second day took us back towards Folkestone for the internationally renowned Folkestone Triennial, this is a summer-long art festival that transforms the whole town into a creative wonderland (and on till October 19th 2025 this year) If you think art festivals aren’t for kids, think again: the atmosphere here is friendly, lively, and packed with activities for families.

Pick up a free festival map (in print or online) and set off on your own art treasure hunt. Installations spill out along the beach, up to the leafy parks, and over the town’s famous white cliffs. The artworks come in all shapes and sizes, some bright and bold, others quietly tucked into secret corners or even peeping out from the tide.

This year’s theme, ‘How Lies the Land?’, asked artists to explore the ground beneath our feet, its history, its scars, and what the future might hold. Our children marvelled at enormous sculptures and interactive sound pieces, while Grandma and I enjoyed discussing artwork that explored climate change, migration and even what it means to belong.

Workshops dotted across the festival offered hands-on making, storytelling and even guided family tours. Toddlers, and their grown-ups can all find something to spark their curiosity. For snacks, there’s the colourful Harbour Arm, lined with stalls from gourmet doughnuts to Kentish ice cream. Take a breather and soak up views of fishing boats and tidal pools between art stops.

The best part? Everything is designed for accessibility with step-free paths, helpful stewards, and programmes available in easy-read versions, ensuring no-one feels left out, however they travel or explore.

Eco-Credentials: Conscious comfort by the coast

It’s easy to feel good about a Cabu break, knowing sustainability is at its heart. From the plastic-free policy and eco toiletries, to the use of recycled and green energy and efficient heating, every detail is planned to protect this precious dramatic coast. You’ll find wildlife-friendly planting, responsible recycling, and an authentic sense of place in everything from furnishing choices to the food in the shop.

The verdict: A home from home (with a little luxury)

Cabu by the Sea is more than a place to sleep, it’s a reset button, a chance to reconnect as a family, to let kids run safely free, and to slow down with grandparents and grown-ups alike. It offers all the warmth of a home, but with gentle indulgences and none of the chores. From rainbow-hunting after a storm to fireside board games, dawn walks in wild sea air, and the delicious sleep that comes with a day well spent, we returned home truly relaxed and deeply reconnected.

CABU BY THE SEA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Where: St Mary’s Bay, Romney Marsh, Kent. ~20 min drive from Folkestone

Accommodation: 1, 2 & 3 bedroom cabins (all with kitchen, WiFi, log burner, some with hot tub & balcony)

Family-Friendly: Bunk beds, travel cots, highchairs, kids’ pool, games & toys, dog-friendly options

Food: Onsite shop, pizza and BBQ packs, cabin kitchens, communal BBQ & kitchen area

Spa: Deep tissue and Ayurvedic massage, facials in a shepherd’s hut (from £65)

Activities: Outdoor heated pool, beachcombing, shell collecting, board games, art & craft nights

Nearby: Port Lympne Reserve (Safari & close-up animal experiences), Folkestone Triennial, Dymchurch funfair, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam railway

Eco-Credentials: Plastic-free, sustainable amenities, recycling

Best deals: 4 nights for the price of 3 throughout autumn/winter/spring; January “half price” sale; weekends from £597 for a 1-bedroom

Find out more: https://holidays.cabu.co.uk/cabu-by-the-sea

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Fans of Mare of Easttown could be getting closer to a return than expected, after Kate Winslet revealed there is now a “strong likelihood” the hit HBO drama could come back for a second season.

The Oscar-winning actress, who won an Emmy for her role as detective Mare Sheehan, told Deadline that conversations have been taking place about revisiting the acclaimed crime series, years after it was originally expected to be a one-off.

When Mare of Easttown first aired in 2021, it was billed as a limited series with no plans for continuation. But Kate has now suggested that position may be changing, with discussions between herself, writer Brad Ingelsby and HBO happening again in recent months.

She explained that earlier talks had explored whether a return could ever happen, but more recently things have moved into a more serious stage.

Kate said there is now a “strong likelihood” the show could go into production in 2027 — the first time she has felt genuinely hopeful about stepping back into the role.

Previously, the Titanic and I Am Ruth actress had said she considered Mare Sheehan’s story complete and described the original shoot as emotionally intense, particularly as filming took place during the Covid pandemic.

She has also made it clear that any return would depend entirely on the strength of the story, saying it would need to be “too good to resist”.

While nothing has been officially confirmed, the update is the clearest sign yet that Mare Sheehan could return to screens.

The original series followed Mare, a small-town detective in Pennsylvania, as she investigated the murder of a teenage mother while dealing with personal grief and family struggles. The show became a major success and earned Kate an Emmy for her performance.

There has also been speculation that Mare of Easttown could link to Task, another drama from writer Brad Ingelsby set in the same fictional world, although nothing has been confirmed.

For now, Mare of Easttown season 2 remains unconfirmed, but Kate Winslet's comments suggest it may be closer than fans have dared to hope.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

It is almost impossible to believe that Madeleine McCann would be 23 this year.

For many of us, her disappearance in May 2007 still feels painfully vivid. We remember the photographs. The candlelit vigils. Her mother Kate desperately clinging on to Maddie's favourite toy 'Cuddle Cat' at every heartbreaking press conference. The hollow ache of imagining the three-year-old child and what horrors she could be facing.

Now, nearly two decades on, one of the most distressing chapters of the case is being revisited, not through a documentary, but in a new 90-minute Channel 5 drama.

Under Suspicion: Kate McCann, airing Wednesday May 20 at 9pm on 5, focuses on the period when Madeleine’s mother was formally named an arguido - or suspect - by Portuguese police.

It was a moment that stunned the public and left Kate and Gerry McCann fighting not only for their daughter, but for their own reputations.

But as the drama prepares to air, a thoughtful question arises: does retelling this story help us understand it, or is its purpose just to cash in on the constant interest in one of the most famous cases of a missing child?

A mother under intense scrutiny

In September 2007, four months after Madeleine vanished from the family’s holiday apartment in Praia da Luz, Kate McCann was declared an arguido. She and husband Gerry were later cleared in July 2008, and no charges were ever brought against them.

The drama centres on Kate’s police interrogation, hours of questioning, mounting pressure, and the reported offer of a plea arrangement if she admitted some responsibility. On legal advice, Kate eventually answered “no comment”.

Actress Laura Bayston, who plays Kate, told The Mirror she felt a deep responsibility in taking on the role.

“I thought of her and Madeleine every minute of every day while filming,” she says.

Like many parents watching events unfold back in 2007, Laura remembers feeling shaken.

“I have two children who were a similar age at the time and it terrified me. It was shocking. It’s still shocking.”

She describes filming the scene in which Kate is presented with the alleged offer if she pleaded guilty as “truly horrific… a mix of utter despair to white rage and back again.”

Why dramatise this story?

Channel 5’s commissioning editor Dan Louw believes drama can offer something different from the many documentaries, books and podcasts already produced about the case.

“Dramas can be more emotionally engaging, to concentrate not just on what happened, but how it actually felt to be there,” he says.

The film focuses specifically on the “arguido” period - a complicated part of the investigation that cast a long shadow over the McCanns for years.

The disappearance of Madeleine remains unsolved. German authorities continue to investigate convicted offender Christian Brückner as a prime suspect, though no charges relating to Madeleine have been brought. A fresh search in Portugal in 2025 led to no major breakthrough. For the McCann family, the long wait only continues.

A delicate balance

There is no doubt that true crime dramas are popular. Channel 5 has previously dramatised recent real-life scandals, including the Huw Edwards case, starring Martin Clunes, prompting discussion about how quickly broadcasters should turn headlines into primetime television.

Yet Madeleine’s story feels different.

This is not a closed chapter of history. It is an ongoing absence. A family still living with uncertainty.

Parents who have now spent almost 19 years searching for answers. For some viewers, the drama may offer empathy and a reminder of the human cost behind the headlines. For others, it may feel uncomfortable to revisit a period of intense suspicion and public scrutiny.

Perhaps what makes this story endure is that it began and remains heartbreakingly simple: a mother and father desperately searching for their child.

When and where can I watch Under Suspicion: Kate McCann?

Under Suspicion: Kate McCann airs Wednesday May 20 at 9pm on 5.

What

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

If you're wondering what to watch on Netflix next, our number one recommendation is Legends. Created and written by The Gold and Guilt creator Neil Forsyth, it's a gripping new drama inspired by a little-known chapter in British history. Set in the early 1990s, the six-part series follows a group of ordinary Customs employees who are recruited for a top-secret undercover operation to infiltrate some of the UK’s most dangerous drug gangs — risking everything as they assume new identities and step into the criminal underworld.

The Legends cast brings together an impressive ensemble of acclaimed British actors from television and film, many of whom you will recognise. Before diving into details about specific cast members, here's the full list...

Who is in the cast of Legends?

• Tom Burke plays ‘Guy’

• Steve Coogan plays ‘Don’

• Hayley Squires plays ‘Kate’

• Tom Hughes plays ‘Carter’

• Aml Ameen plays ‘Bailey’

• Jasmine Blackborow plays ‘Erin’

• Douglas Hodge plays ‘Blake’

• Johnny Harris plays ‘Eddie’

• Gerald Kyd plays ‘Mylonas’

• Numan Acar plays ‘Hakan’

• Charlotte Ritchie plays ‘Sophie’

• Joshua Samuels plays ‘Zeki’

• Kem Hassan plays ‘Aziz’

• Thomas Coombes plays ‘Shaun’

Tom Burke (Guy Stanton)

Tom plays Guy, a Customs officer who works at Heathrow alongside his wife, Sophie (Charlotte Ritchie). Although he appears settled - happily married with a daughter at home - Guy feels a growing sense of restlessness. He’s eager to progress in his career and prove himself capable of more, so when the chance to go undercover presents itself, he seizes it as a way to transform his life.

Burke’s character is inspired by a real-life Legend, Guy Stanton, whom creator Neil Forsyth interviewed while developing the series. “I immediately got a sense of the human journey that he and others had taken in this remarkable story,” he says.

As Burke tells Netflix, “His draw to the recruitment poster asking ‘Could you offer more?’ feels quite universal... There’s a feeling that he’s never quite done what he needed to do; a side of him that he’s pushed down, or which has been pushed down by his environment.”

“I always thought [my character’s] drive was more individual and internal, that he simply needs to do something like this because it’s meaningful and purposeful but also because it’s dangerous, and he craves that,” Burke says. “There’s an adrenaline junkie in there somewhere. Perhaps somebody else would just go and do a bungee jump, but he needs a bit more than that. It’s like it’s something he’s got to do to be able to get on with the rest of his life.”

What else has Tom Burke been in?

Tom Burke is one of those actors you’ll instantly recognise, even if you can’t quite place where you first saw him. Over the years, he’s built up an impressive list of roles across both television and film.

Many will remember him as the brooding Athos in the BBC’s swashbuckling drama The Musketeers (2014–2016), while period drama fans may know him as Dolokhov in the BBC’s 2016 adaptation of War & Peace, where he starred alongside James Norton. He’s perhaps best known on television as private detective Cormoran Strike in the long-running BBC series Strike.

On the big screen, Burke has also taken on some standout roles, including playing Orson Welles in the 2020 film Mank and appearing as Praetorian Jack in 2024’s action-packed Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.

Steve Coogan as Don

Don is the no-nonsense head of operations who is tasked with recruiting a team to go undercover, as he himself has done in the past.
He’s a seasoned veteran of the force who once went undercover himself – an experience that left him carrying deep psychological scars. It’s those hard‑won lessons that now drive him to protect his new recruits, determined they won’t make the same mistakes he did.

Described as a “lugubrious Mancunian”, Don is every inch the gruff northerner, never sugar‑coating the harsh realities of the job. He tells it exactly as it is – especially when it comes to the very real dangers of going undercover.

As a leader, he’s more world‑weary mentor than gung‑ho boss. Don takes charge of crafting convincing undercover “legends” for his team, painstakingly building new identities while keeping a constant eye on the enormous risks involved.

What else has Steve Coogan been in?

If you’re wondering why he looks so familiar, chances are it’s thanks to his legendary comedy alter ego, Alan Partridge – the awkward broadcaster who has become one of British TV’s most iconic characters.

But Steve Coogan’s career stretches far beyond Norwich’s finest DJ. On the small screen, he’s starred in series including Saxondale, Happyish, The Trip, Stephen, Chivalry, The Reckoning, Brian and Maggie and The Sandman, showing off his range in everything from sharp comedy to hard-hitting drama.

He’s also no stranger to the big screen. Steve has appeared in films such as 24 Hour Party People, Night at the Museum, Hot Fuzz, Tropic Thunder, In the Loop, Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief, The Other Guys, Despicable Me 2, Philomena, Stan & Ollie, Greed, The Lost King, Joker: Folie à Deux, The Penguin Lessons and Saipan.

Hayley Squires as Kate

Kate is one of the drama’s central undercover operatives and is paired with Bailey (played by Aml Ameen) as they embed themselves in Liverpool’s criminal underworld.

The character was inspired by several real-life undercover officers creator Neil Forsyth interviewed while developing the series. In particular, Kate reflects their working-class roots and the deeply personal reasons many of them had for taking on such dangerous assignments – including a determination to tackle the devastation drugs have caused in their own communities.

Hayley Squires has been praised for bringing a sharp, dry humour to the role, while also capturing the emotional toll of living a lie. Her performance helps ground the drama in the very human – and often painful – reality of building and maintaining a completely fake life.

What else has Hayley Squires been in?

If she looks familiar, that’s because Hayley Squires has quietly built up an impressive list of credits across both TV and film.

On the small screen, she’s appeared in popular series includingCall the Midwife, Collateral, The Miniaturist, Adult Material, The Essex Serpent, Great Expectations, Inside No. 9 and The Night Manager.

She’s also had roles on the big screen, with film credits including I, Daniel Blake, In the Earth, The Electrical Life of Louis Wain and Blitz.

Aml Ameen as Bailey

Bailey is a VAT inspector who is teamed up with Kate in Liverpool.

What else has Aml Ameen been in?

Ameen has had roles in series including The Bill, Silent Witness, Harry's Law, Sense8, I May Destroy You, The Porter and A Man in Full.

Jasmine Blackborow as Erin

Jasmine Blackborow takes on the role of Erin, a civil service secretary who becomes the quiet powerhouse behind the undercover operation.

Described as the “engine room” of the team, Erin is responsible for creating the all-important paper trails, backstories and official documentation that make the agents’ fake identities believable. Without her meticulous work behind the scenes, their carefully constructed “legends” simply wouldn’t stand up to scrutiny.

Although she isn’t out in the field, Erin plays a vital part in the mission’s success – and over the course of the series, she becomes firmly embedded in the team, even celebrating alongside them once their dangerous assignment is complete.

What else has Jasmine Blackborow been in?

She is known for her roles in The Gentlemen and Shadow and Bone.

Douglas Hodge as Blake

Douglas Hodge takes on the role of the high-ranking Director of Customs Investigations – the man at the very top of the operation.

As Don’s boss (Steve Coogan), he’s the one who gives official authorisation for the risky undercover “legends” scheme, signing off on the dangerous mission before it gets off the ground. But the pressure doesn’t stop there – he answers directly to the Home Secretary, meaning the stakes couldn’t be higher if things go wrong.

Calm, authoritative and keenly aware of the political fallout at play, he represents the powerful forces pulling the strings behind the scenes.

What else has Douglas Hodge been in?

He’s a familiar face thanks to an impressive career spanning some of TV’s biggest dramas. Over the years, he’s appeared in series including Capital City, Red Cap, Outnumbered, Penny Dreadful, Unforgotten, Black Mirror, Catastrophe, The Undoing, Lost in Space, I Hate Suzie, Extrapolations, The Great, The Bombing of Pan Am 103 and The Night Manager.

On the big screen, his credits are just as varied, with roles in films such as Robin Hood, Red Sparrow, Joker, The Devil All the Time and We Live in Time.

Charlotte Ritchie as Sophie

Charlotte Ritchie stars as Sophie in Legends – the extremely understanding wife of main character Guy (Tom Burke).

Sophie isn’t just a supportive partner waiting at home, though. She’s a customs officer at Heathrow Airport and a former investigator herself, meaning she knows all too well the risks that come with undercover work.

What else has Charlotte Ritchie been in?

Charlotte Ritchie has become a familiar face on our screens thanks to a string of standout TV roles. She’s appeared in series including Siblings, Fresh Meat, Call the Midwife, Doctor Who, Death in Paradise, Dead Pixels, Feel Good, Ghosts, Grantchester, You, Code of Silence and Dirty Business.

She’s also made her mark on the big screen, with film credits including Wonka and The Assessment.

Tom Hughes as Carter

Declan Carter is an ambitious and ruthless drug boss operating out of Liverpool. Determined to expand his empire, he’s a key figure in the city’s criminal underworld – and a major obstacle for the undercover team as they attempt to infiltrate his operation.

What else has Tom Hughes been in?

Tom Hughes is no stranger to gripping drama. On television, he’s appeared in series including Silk, Dancing on the Edge, Derek, Victoria, A Discovery of Witches, The English, Franklin, Those About to Die, Malpractice and The Gold.

On the big screen, his film credits include Cemetery Junction, About Time, Red Joan and Infinite.

Johnny Harris as Eddie

Eddie is Carter’s loyal right-hand man and trusted enforcer – the one tasked with carrying out the dirty work when things get messy. Fiercely protective of his boss and deeply embedded in the criminal operation, he’s not someone to cross.

But away from the violence and intimidation, there’s another side to Eddie. At home, he’s a devoted family man, creating a stark contrast between his brutal working life and his private world.

What else has Johnny Harris been in?

Johnny Harris is a familiar face from a host of hard-hitting dramas. Over the years, he’s appeared in series including EastEnders, Whitechapel, This Is England, The Fades, Fortitude, Troy: Fall of a City, Medici, A Christmas Carol, The Salisbury Poisonings, Without Sin, Great Expectations and A Gentleman in Moscow.

He’s also starred on the big screen in films such as Atonement, RocknRolla, War Horse and Snow White and the Huntsman.

Gerald Kyd as Mylonas

Mylonas is a charismatic informant who becomes Guy’s key contact within the Turkish underworld. Charming and well-connected, he acts as a guide through a dangerous criminal landscape, helping Guy navigate unfamiliar territory where one wrong move could have serious consequences.

Gerald Kyd has built up an impressive list of television credits over the years. He’s appeared in series including Casualty, Persons Unknown, Sherlock, Humans, Silent Witness, Unforgotten, Cuckoo, Harlots, Deep Water, Cold Feet, Doctor Who, The Split, Ridley, Love Rat, Professor T, Malory Towers, The Assassin, Hostage and Crookhaven.

Numan Acar as Hakan

Hakan is known as the “King of Green Lanes” – the formidable head of a powerful London-based Turkish heroin gang. Commanding respect and fear in equal measure, he sits at the top of the criminal hierarchy, making him a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama.

What else has Numan Acar been in?

Numan Acar will be familiar to fans of high-stakes thrillers. On television, he’s appeared in series including Homeland, Jack Ryan and Young Sherlock. He’s also starred on the big screen in films such as The Great Wall, 12 Strong and Spider-Man: Far From Home.

Joshua Samuels as Zeki

Zeki is a young lieutenant in Hakan’s gang, rising through the ranks of the organisation. Ambitious and eager to prove himself, but he also makes mistakes that help lead the "legends" to the heroine gang.

What else has Joshua Samuels been in?

Joshua Samuels is a rising star, with a growing list of credits to his name. On television, he’s appeared in series including Nate & Jamie, Sexy Beast and The Gold.

Kem Hassan as Aziz

Aziz is Hakan’s son, positioned within the heart of the family’s criminal empire. Unlike some of the old guard, he approaches the drug trade as a matter of business rather than loyalty or tradition. He’s pragmatic, commercially minded and notably influenced by English culture,

What else has Kem Hassan been in?

Kem Hassan has appeared in a range of well-known British dramas. His TV credits include EastEnders, Emmerdale, Mood, Vera, Grace, Beyond Paradise and The Sandman.

When and where can I watch Legends?

The whole series is now streaming on Netflix. You can watch all six 60-minute episodes.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

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For almost three decades, Alan Davies has been making audiences laugh with his sharp wit. Whether he’s on stage doing stand-up, playing Jonathan Creek in the BBC mystery drama series of the same name, or being a panellist on QI, he’s impossible to ignore.

It was backstage on QI where he first met his wife, writer Katie Maskell, whom he married in January 2007 and went on to have three children with. Friend and comedy partner Bill Bailey was best man at their wedding.

Although Alan is known for his ready smile, he has endured a difficult past. His mother died when he was just six, leaving him with an abusive father. He has spoken and written openly about the trauma, believing that honesty matters.

“It felt brave to put it out there, but it was a good thing for my marriage and my family, and for other people who started opening up to me about their own experiences,” he has said. “So I’ve done it all again, but with the next bit. It’s truthful and unvarnished.”

He has also reflected on authenticity in his work, explaining that for a long time there was a disconnect between his stage persona and his life off stage. “Everything in my act was quite superficial, but the audience need you to be relatable, so now I don’t shy away from the difficult bits.”

Alan has admitted that he struggled with traditional employment before comedy. “I couldn’t hold down a normal job. I had to do comedy, to become this kind of travelling minstrel; otherwise I wouldn’t have been able to earn a living. I’d have been an intolerable employee!”

He has also spoken warmly about his family life, crediting his wife’s “extreme tolerance” for their long marriage. While his children have been largely unfazed by his career, he says they particularly enjoy Taskmaster, especially seeing him make a fool of himself on screen.

In recent years, Alan Davies has also faced health concerns, including a cancer scare in 2024 when he underwent surgery to remove a tumour from his bladder. He has since described it as a “lucky escape”, adding that it made him reflect on how quickly life can change.

“I’ve always expected someone to just tap me on the shoulder on the QI set and say, ‘OK, come on, off you go.’ But hopefully not,” he said. “I’d love to retire, but I’m not sure I could watch Sky Sports all day.”

'White Male Stand-Up' by Alan Davies, published by Monoray, hardback, is out now.

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Channel 4 has announced the cast for its brand-new darkly comic thriller Wrong Move, lead by Eve Myles and impressive ensemble in a story where the dream of moving house quickly turns into chaos.

From the team behind Big Boys and Coma, the six-part series follows a group of homebuyers whose lives are thrown into turmoil after one man’s decision to pull out of a property sale sends shockwaves through the entire chain, and it’s not long before tensions, secrets and control issues begin to surface.

Who's in the cast of Wrong Move?

Rory Kinnear (Years and Years, Bank of Dave) stars as Michael, a 40-something-year-old man whose patience is pushed to the limit as everything around him starts to fall apart, while Eve Myles (Gone, Keeping Faith) plays Catherine, his wife, who is desperate for their “forever home” to be the answer to a struggling marriage.

Meanwhile their son Jack, played by Austin Haynes (Unforgivable, Adolescence), has a deeper involvement in the ongoing crisis than they expect.

At the centre of the chaos is David Thewlis (Harry Potter, The Omen) as Trevor, a volatile and manipulative sociopath whose last-minute withdrawal from the sale triggers the chain reaction that unravels everything. His actions also expose deeper family tensions, including with his father Arthur, played by David Bradley (Game of Thrones, Harry Potter).

Eleanor Tomlinson (Poldark, The Couple Next Door) also stars as Stella, who is preparing for a major life change with her partner Juliette, played by Gwyneth Keyworth (Death Valley, Lost Boys & Fairies), as they navigate the pressures of starting a family while everything else around them spirals.

The cast is rounded out by Daisy Morgan (The Power, Giant) as Molly, Ali Khan (A Haunting in Venice, Everybody Burns) as Asif, Evie Kaisi (newcomer) as Emily, Ray Fearon (The Feud, Barbie) as Danny, Paul Bazely (Such Brave Girls, Black Mirror) as DS Berry, Laura Elsworthy (Cinderella, Testament of Youth) as DC Jenkins, and Alex MacQueen (The Thick of It, The Feud) as estate agent Alistair.

Blending dark humour with high-stakes domestic drama, Wrong Move explores how one decision can unravel multiple lives, and how, when it comes to moving house, you don’t always leave your problems behind.

When can I watch Wrong Move?

Wrong Move is currently filming in West Yorkshire, with Channel 4 yet to confirm an official release date.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Emmerdale fans are in for a huge surprise as Patsy Kensit is set to reprise her iconic role as Sadie King later this year.

Sadie – the glamorous, scheming ex-wife of Jimmy King – first swept into the Yorkshire Dales in 2004, memorably arriving by helicopter. With her icy glare, seductive charm and ruthless ambition, she quickly became one of the soap’s most unforgettable villains.

During her original stint, Sadie was at the heart of some of the show’s most dramatic storylines. From a devastating house explosion to high-stakes affairs with a young Robert Sugden and bad boy Cain Dingle, she left chaos in her wake at every turn.

Her tangled love life saw her betray Jimmy and embark on a romance with his brother Matthew King, while also conducting a dangerous liaison with Cain. In one of her most explosive plots, Sadie and Cain kidnapped Tom King and demanded a ransom. But in true soap fashion, the plan backfired spectacularly when Cain double-crossed her, stole the money and left her with nothing – marking Sadie’s dramatic exit in 2006.

Now, nearly two decades on, she’s heading back to the village – and producers are promising fireworks.

Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Patsy Kensit back to the cast and crucially to see the iconic Sadie King storm back into the village. Her return will be explosive and guaranteed to shock. Sadie’s seductive demeanour, combined with her utterly ruthless nature, is set to deliver a spectacular and highly dramatic touch of class to the Yorkshire Dales.”

Patsy herself is equally excited about stepping back into Sadie’s stilettos.

“I am really excited to return to Emmerdale. I treasure the years I was here before. Sadie King is a character that I really loved playing,” she said. “The cast and crew are absolutely brilliant and I am so grateful for the chance to return to the show – it’s absolutely amazing.”

According to reports in The Sun, Patsy’s comeback has been shrouded in secrecy, with bosses keen to keep the twist under wraps to maximise the shock factor for viewers. A source told the publication that the actress is “delighted to get her teeth back into the meaty role,” adding that scriptwriters are determined to keep the show packed with explosive plots and divisive characters.

Sadie’s return is sure to send shockwaves through the village. She shares a complicated romantic history with Jimmy and Cain, as well as with Robert Sugden – now played by Ryan Hawley – after their brief fling in the mid-2000s.

Her biggest nemesis, Charity Dingle, remains a central figure in the Dales, and it’s safe to say Sadie won’t be welcomed back with open arms by the rest of the Dingle clan, including Chas. There’s also unfinished business with the Tate family. Sadie once forced Zoe Tate to hand over Home Farm to the Kings, costing Joe Tate his childhood home. And while she never crossed paths with Kim Tate before, the prospect of those two formidable women going head-to-head is already tantalising fans.

Patsy’s portrayal of Sadie cemented her status as a fan favourite, earning her Inside Soap Awards in both 2005 and 2006. Since leaving Emmerdale, she has appeared in a host of high-profile roles, including nurse Faye Morton in Holby City and Emma Harding in EastEnders, as well as film credits such as Lethal Weapon 2.

But for many viewers, she will always be Sadie King – and with her dramatic return on the horizon, it looks like the Queen of Home Farm is ready to reclaim her crown.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

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If you love true-crime inspired dramas packed with tension and powerful performances, Netflix’s new series Legends could be your next must-watch.

Available to stream now on Netflix the six-part drama tells the extraordinary – and little-known – story of ordinary UK Customs workers who were sent undercover to infiltrate some of Britain’s most dangerous drug gangs in the early 1990s. Starring Tom Burke and Steve Coogan, the series shines a light on a hidden chapter of British history that many viewers will be discovering for the very first time.

Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Legends about?

Set in the early 1990s, Legends follows a small group of Her Majesty’s Customs and Excise employees who are recruited for a top-secret undercover operation at a time when Britain was losing its battle against heroin smuggling.

But these weren’t trained spies or seasoned detectives. They were ordinary men and women, from suitcase inspectors to desk-based staff, plucked from everyday life and asked to infiltrate criminal networks.

To protect themselves and their families, they were given entirely new identities, known as “Legends”. As they enter the criminal underworld, they face unimaginable risks while trying to maintain their cover and their sense of who they really are.

At the centre of the story is Guy (played by Tom Burke), a frustrated Heathrow suitcase inspector and family man who jumps at the chance to prove he’s capable of more. What follows is a gripping exploration of danger, ambition and identity.

Speaking on the release of the trailer, Tom reveals why a Heathrow ‘nobody’ risked everything to become an undercover Legend:

"His draw to the recruitment poster asking 'Could you offer more?' feels quite universal… There’s a feeling that he’s never quite done what he needed to do; a side of him that he’s pushed down, or which has been pushed down by his environment.

“There’s an adrenaline junkie in there somewhere. Perhaps somebody else would just go and do a bungee jump, but he needs a bit more than that. It’s like it’s something he’s got to do, to be able to get on with the rest of his life.”

Is Legends based on a true story?

Yes and that’s what make this drama even more compelling.

The series is inspired by one of the most remarkable criminal investigations ever conducted in Britain. Creator and writer Neil Forsyth carried out extensive research, including interviews with real former undercover operatives — known as the real-life “Legends”.

These were working-class civil servants who volunteered to assume fake identities and risk their lives in order to take down powerful drug gangs. Despite the scale of the operation, their work has remained largely unknown to the public until now.
Speaking about the deep-dive research he undertook to bring this story to life, Neil Forsyth shared with TUDUM the human truth behind these ordinary people who did something extraordinary:

“I immediately got a sense of the human journey that he and others had taken in this remarkable story,” Neil sayid of his extensive research interviews with Guy Stanton, and several other ‘real life Legends’. 
“A lot of them are from working class backgrounds without any kind of financial support underpinning their decisions … Suddenly, they have this opportunity to do something completely different that satisfies a lot of their unique personal motivations and hopes and dreams, but with it comes an enormous danger, and they can't resist plunging into that.”

Who is behind the series?

Legends is created and written by Neil Forsyth, whose previous credits include The Gold, Guilt, Reckless and Eric, Ernie & Me. Neil is an award-winning Scottish author and screen writer known for bringing real-life stories to the screen with depth and humanity.

When and where can I watch Legends?

Legends is now available to stream on Netflix. All six 60-minute episodes are available to stream, making it perfect for a weekend binge.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

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She's best known for playing Anne in the hit BBC comedy Motherland, and more recently, in the award-winning spin-off, Amandaland, but Philippa Dunne has quietly built up a much wider TV career than most viewers realise.

From awkward school-run chaos to a BAFTA-nominated turn on screen, here’s everything you need to know about the star.

How old is Philippa Dunne?

As of May 2026, Philippa is reportedly 44 years old.

What TV shows has Philippa Dunne been in?

From comedy to drama, Irish actress Philippa Dunne has been in plenty of must-see shows, and has even written a few herself.

The Walshes

Philippa Dunne was also part of the Irish comedy group Diet of Worms, and co-wrote and starred in the RTÉ comedy The Walshes in 2014. The series followed a close-knit but chaotic family living in suburban Dublin and became known for its offbeat humour and exaggerated family dynamics.

Motherland

Philippa is best known for playing Anne Flynn in Motherland, a role she has played since 2016. One of the mums at the school, Anne is often caught up in a fairly one-sided friendship with Amanda (Lucy Punch), regularly going along with her chaotic ideas and bending over backwards to keep the peace.

The hit series quickly became a fan favourite and remains her most recognisable work.

Amandaland

More recently, she has reprised her role as Anne in the Motherland spin-off Amandaland.

While she still finds herself orbiting Amanda and getting pulled into her world, the spin-off gives Anne more space to feel like her own person, with her character stepping slightly out of Amanda’s shadow while still delivering the same quirkiness and hilarious one-liners that fans love.

In 2026, Philippa was also recognised for her role in Amandaland, earning a nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy for the show’s 2025 Christmas special. She was nominated alongside co-stars Lucy Punch and Jennifer Saunders, with the series itself winning Best Scripted Comedy.

Believe Me

Philippa Dunne plays Harriet Wistrich in the ITV true-crime drama Believe Me, which follows victims of the “black cab rapist” John Worboys.

Harriet is a solicitor who teams up with a group of women to take legal action against the Metropolitan Police after the way they were treated following their allegations of sexual assault.

Derry Girls

Philippa Dunne also appeared in Derry Girls as Geraldine Devlin, the mother of Clare.

The Channel 4 comedy is set in 1990s Northern Ireland during the final years of the Troubles and follows a group of a group of friends at a Catholic girls’ school navigating teenage life, friendship and family chaos.

This is Going to Hurt

In the BBC medical comedy-drama This Is Going to Hurt, Philippa played Ria, a receptionist in a busy NHS hospital. The series, based on Adam Kay’s memoir, mixed humour with the pressures of working on the front line of healthcare.

Who is Philippa Dunne's husband?

While Philippa usually keeps her personal life under wraps, she has revealed that she is married and has a child, who was born during lockdown.

"In Motherland season three, any time you see a real baby that I'm carrying around, that's my real baby in real life," she said.

“I had no kids, so I didn’t know if [the show] was exaggerated. But then I had a child, and I realised, ‘Oh my god, yeah, it is this.’

"Right from that first episode, ‘the stress, to the noise, the anxiety, the pressure, the chaos, the screaming, the roaring, the people that you have to deal with just because your children are in the same school – it's terribly relatable."

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Emma Willis seems to be the name on everybody's lips lately, especially with rumours of her being the new Strictly presenter! But who is she really? Whether you know her from her Big Brother days, her excellent turn hosting The Voice or even from her days at I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Now! (or as we know it now, I'm a Celebrity: Unpacked), she's a phenomenal TV personality that we can't help but love. We've got all the information you could ever want, so prepare to deep dive and enjoy as we tell you all about Emma Willis.

Who is Emma Willis?

Emma Willis was born on 18th March 1976, in a town called Sutton Coalfield in Birmingham. Nowadays, we know her for her stellar hosting abilities, but growing up, she actually worked as a model for brands like GAP and Chanel!

It wasn't all glamour in her childhood, though. On the topic of growing up, she said, “I went to school in Sutton, all my friends were in Sutton – Birmingham was kind of this big scary place that my older sister went to – and got into trouble when she came home – it was just not as shiny then, was it?"

Emma's never been shy about her Brummie roots, and after presenting on and off for MTV from 2002, she brought her talent and charm to the masses with her work on the spin-off shows Big Brother's Big Mouth and I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Now!.

Is Emma Willis married?

If you're a fan of Love is Blind: UK, you'll know that Emma is married to Busted member and I'm a Celeb winner Matt Willis, with whom she hosts the show! They actually met when his band appeared on MTV with Emma hosting, and after dating for three years, the pair got married in July of 2008.

According to a BBC article, Matt and Emma described getting to work together on the show as "wicked", with Emma noting the similarities to her past work, saying: "It was like Big Brother all over again. Like back when I first worked on it, it was just a gallery of screens with all of these people dating, it was like a dream!"

Matt and Emma shared a deeper insight into their relationship as part of the documentary Matt Willis: Fighting Addiction, which chronicles her husband's struggle with alcohol and drug dependencies. The programme was praised for its honesty and celebrated Matt's ongoing sobriety.

Does Emma Willis have children?

Emma and Matt share three children together: one boy, Ace, and two girls, Isabelle and Trixie. While she does post about her little ones on social media on occasion, Emma makes an effort to keep their faces censored for their privacy. She encourages her children to think carefully before joining any social media sites themselves.

"I'm going to keep them off it for as long as possible," revealed the TV presenter when speaking with HELLO in 2019. "Eventually there will come a day when they're going to want to do it, but I think education is key, and you have to let them know the positives and negatives of it. As long as they're educated and aware of the dangers, then you're doing your job."

Who are Emma Willis' parents?

Emma's parents aren't nearly as prolific onscreen as their daughter - her mother Cathy worked in a hospital when she was young, and Emma almost followed in her footsteps. Both Cathy and Emma's father, Steve Griffiths, appeared along with Emma in a 2017 episode of Who Do You Think You Are?, in which she discovered her roots in Birmingham and even some distant Irish ancestry.

What TV shows has Emma appeared in?

It might be easier to list the shows Emma hasn't presented! Over the years, she has hosted a wide range of TV programmes, including six series as a host for Big Brother and a whopping ten series as host of The Voice! She even co-presented the BRIT Awards in 2017 with Dermot O'Leary.

In a fun twist, recently, Emma and her husband Matt have appeared as fake hosts of the show Couple Goals within the real show Celebrity Sabotage, where a team of celebs play pranks on contestants who think they're filming the next hit reality TV programme. Talk about production value!

Here's a more complete list of some of Emma's best roles:

• Big Brother (celeb and standard editions) - combined 11 series, 2013-2018

• Big Brother's Bit on the Side (celeb and standard editions) - combined 12 series, 2011-2015

• I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! NOW! - 2 series, 2007-2008

• The Voice UK - 10 series, 2014-present

• The Voice Kids - 7 series, 2017-2023

• The Circle - 2 series, 2019-2021

• Love is Blind UK (co-presenting with Matt Willis) - 2 series, 2023-2025

• 37th Edition BRIT Awards (co-presenting with Dermot O'Leary) - 2017

Emily Dale is a member of Bauer’s Content Optimisation Team, and writer. Over the years she has contributed to a number of brands including Mother&Baby, Yours and WhatsTheBest.

Her strongest interests lie in board games, feel-good comedy and TV quiz shows like taskmaster. One of her favourite hobbies is completing crosswords and other word puzzles, or even making her own to share with friends. Eventually, she hopes to have an entire series of her custom Only Connect episodes in the backlog to unleash on visitors!

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Be summer ready with Jakemans, whether you’re going on holiday, attending sporting events or making the most of the festival season. Established in 1907, Jakemans is the UK’s No. 1 cough and throat lozenge brand. Marvellous moments require marvellous voices, that’s why each tasty lozenge is bursting with menthol, an ingredient that releases natural vapours to soothe sore or tickly throats and keep airways clear. Using only the finest natural ingredients, Jakemans contains no artificial colours or flavours, and are suitable for vegetarians. Three winners will receive 10 tasty flavours in this competition bundle - enter now, your voice will thank you!

Closing Date: 31st May 2026 at 11:59 pm

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Bring a touch of luxury to your outdoor space with the Aruba Set of 2 Sun Loungers with Side Table from Vonhaus. Designed for long summer afternoons spent relaxing in the sunshine, this stylish garden furniture set includes two adjustable loungers and a matching side table - perfect for keeping drinks, books, or sun cream within easy reach.

Each lounger features a 4-position reclining backrest, allowing you to sit upright with a morning coffee, recline with a good book, or fully stretch out and unwind in comfort. Thick 10cm padded cushions provide supportive all-day comfort, while removable cushion covers make maintenance simple and practical.

Built with durable weather-resistant steel frames, the Aruba loungers are designed to handle everyday outdoor use on patios, decking, or lawns throughout the warmer months. The neutral black and beige colourway gives the set a timeless, modern look that blends effortlessly into any garden setting.

Easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy, the Aruba Sun Lounger Set creates a relaxing retreat right in your own garden. Whether you’re soaking up the sun solo or enjoying laid-back weekends with company, this matching set is made for slow mornings, sunny afternoons, and comfortable outdoor living. Enter below to be in with a chance to win!

Closing Date: 31st May 2026 at 11:59 pm

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Fans of BBC comedy Amandaland might not have to say goodbye to Amanda just yet, after the show’s creator dropped hints that a third series could still be on the table following its BAFTA win and continued ratings success.

The Motherland spin-off, starring Lucy Punch as chaotic suburban mum Amanda, has only just returned for its second season, but talk is already turning to what could come next.

At this year’s BAFTA TV Awards, Amandaland took home the prize for Scripted Comedy, beating strong competition including Big Boys and How Are You? It’s Alan (Partridge).

Will Amandaland return for season 3?

Creator and writer Holly Walsh admitted the win could help push the show closer to a renewal, saying a third season is still undecided, but not off the table.

While nothing has been confirmed yet, she suggested the success of the show might encourage the BBC to commission more episodes.

“We’ve got many ideas,”, says Holly, who has previously hinted that there is still plenty of life left in Amanda’s story, with ideas already forming for where the character could go next.

The writer also credited the ensemble cast for the show’s success, including Dame Joanna Lumley, who plays Amanda’s mother Felicity.

She praised Joanna as “incredible to watch”, adding that the cast has helped elevate the comedy into something special.

Alongside its awards recognition, Amandaland has also been a major ratings hit for the BBC.

The show’s Christmas special pulled in millions of viewers across a 28-day window, making it one of the most-watched comedies of the festive season.

Critics have also been glowing, with the series praised as a sharp, relatable comedy about parenting, mid-life chaos and female friendship.

What could Amandaland season 3 look like?

While a third season hasn’t been officially confirmed, fans are already speculating about Amanda’s next chapter in SoHa.

Lead star Lucy Punch has previously said she would love to continue exploring the character, describing Amanda as someone who “falls flat on her face and gets back up again”.

Holly Walsh has also teased that she’s open to more guest stars and and even joked about dream casting including political figures and celebrity cameos.

When could season 3 air?

If the show is renewed, industry expectations suggest Amandaland season 3 could arrive in 2027, following the pattern of its previous releases.

Both seasons of Amandaland are on BBC iPlayer, and season two is currently airing weekly on BBC One.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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David Morrissey has shared an emotional insight into his past, revealing how the death of his father when he was just 15 led to years of anxiety, depression and alcoholism.

Speaking candidly on Desert Island Discs, the Sherwood and The Walking Dead star admitted he was left in a “terrible state” after losing his dad Joe to a long-term blood disorder.

The actor, who recently starred in the ITV drama Gone, explained that the grief affected every part of his life, from his confidence and relationships to his struggles with alcohol later on.

David, now 61, revealed that drinking initially helped him cope with crippling social anxiety.
“Drinking first was about anxiety,” he said. “I’ve had this terrible social anxiety and that helped me get through it.”

But over time, the habit became something much darker.

“I wasn’t drinking to be convivial. I was on my own in the pub,” he admitted. “That was really hard for my ex-wife and people around me.”

After leaving school at 16, David spent months travelling with a theatre company as he searched for independence and direction following his father’s death. Looking back now, he believes much of his behaviour came from unresolved trauma.

“They say that hyper-independence is a trauma response,” he reflected. “I do tend to cut off sometimes.”
The actor also revealed the powerful moment that changed his life. After holding onto the number of a former colleague connected to Alcoholics Anonymous for two years, David finally made the call when he hit rock bottom.

“I was in a terrible, terrible state,” he said. “He came round my house and just sat with me. And I’ve not drank since that day.”

David Morrissey has now been sober for 21 years, although he admitted recovery itself has not always been straightforward.

“When I stopped drinking, I didn’t stop being an alcoholic,” he explained. “My behaviour was still very self-destructive for many years.”

The Liverpool-born actor also opened up about how acting became a source of comfort during difficult periods in his life, saying work made him feel “safe”.

David said his passion for performance began after watching the 1970s drama Colditz as a child, with one particular storyline leaving a lasting emotional impact on him.

Today, the actor says he is in a much better place, though he still sometimes struggles with self-confidence.

“For a long time I was really telling myself I wasn’t enough,” he admitted. “That added to the alcoholism and the inability to stop.”

The full episode of Desert Island Discs is available now on BBC Sounds.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Imagine your garden as the perfect spot to unwind, entertain, or soak up the sun. Well, for one lucky reader, we could make your dream a reality! Hillier Garden Centres is proudly teaming up with Yours magazine to give away a Verdant Corner Garden Sofa Set. Perfect for modern outdoor living, this set combines sleek design with all-day comfort. Its rust-proof aluminium frame is both strong and stylish, while warm, wood-effect accents add a natural touch. The spacious corner layout seats up to five, and the chic grey, water-resistant cushions mean you can relax in comfort, whatever the British weather throws at you. A matching coffee table with a durable, easy-clean Polywood slatted top completes the look, making it as practical as it is beautiful. Finished in a fresh green coloured frame and designed for simple assembly, this low-maintenance set brings effortless charm to any garden – ideal for lazy afternoons or entertaining friends.

Hillier Garden Centres was founded in 1864 and has grown to 22 centres across the south of England, alongside a thriving online store. A Royal Warrant holder and winner of 74 consecutive gold medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Hillier is a trusted name in British gardening. From plants and flowers to stylish garden furniture and accessories, Hillier helps you create your own award-winning garden at home.

Visit: hillier.co.uk

Closing Date: 1 June 2026

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Channel 4 has released the first trailer for Falling, offering an emotional first look at Keeley Hawes (Line of Duty, Bodyguard) and Paapa Essiedu (Babies, The Capture) in Jack Thorne’s new Channel 4 drama.

Described as Thorne’s first ever love story, the series follows Anna (Hawes), a devoted nun, and David (Essiedu), a Catholic priest, who are both fully committed to their faith and the communities they serve, until an unexpected relationship changes everything.

Falling trailer

The trailer teases the emotional strain at the heart of the story, as the pair are forced to confront their feelings while questioning their vows, beliefs and duty to God.

Watch the official trailer for Falling below:

Channel 4 has described Falling as a witty and moving contemporary romance, but the footage suggests a more intense and intimate drama built around quiet conflict, longing and difficult choices.

Written by Adolescence creator Jack Thorne, the series looks set to explore love, faith and morality in a way that is both personal and emotionally charged.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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Channel 4’s new romantic drama Falling has been given a release date. Starring Keeley Hawes and Paapa Essiedu, the series follows a devoted nun, whose life is turned upside down when she falls in love with a Catholic priest, forcing both of them to confront a relationship that challenges everything they believe in.

As their feelings grow, the pair are pushed into an impossible situation, torn between faith, duty and a connection they cannot ignore.

Written by Adolescence co-creator Jack Thorne, Falling explores themes of forbidden love, morality and personal sacrifice, as both characters struggle with the consequences of their choices.

The nun has dedicated her life to her vows, while the priest is also bound by the Church, making their emotional connection all the more complicated as they try to resist what is happening between them.

Further cast members of the Channel 4 drama includes Rakie Ayola, Jason Watkins and Niamh Cusack.

Falling will air at 9pm on Tuesday 19th May on Channel 4.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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There’s been an anxious wait for fans of Bonnie Tylerafter the much-loved singer was reportedly resuscitated when she went into cardiac arrest during a frightening health ordeal.

The 74-year-old star, best known for her powerhouse hit Total Eclipse of the Heart, is currently being cared for in intensive care at Faro Hospital in Portugal after a series of serious complications following emergency surgery.

It’s understood Bonnie had been placed in an induced coma to help her body recover after undergoing life-saving surgery for a burst appendix. But as doctors attempted to bring her out of the coma late last week, she reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest and had to be resuscitated.

Despite the alarming setback, there is cautious optimism.

A close friend of the singer has said doctors are feeling “positive” about her chances of making a full recovery, though understandably, it remains a worrying and uncertain time.

It all started with stomach pain

Bonnie is believed to have first felt unwell several weeks ago while performing in London. According to her long-time friend Liberto Mealha, she sought medical advice at the time but nothing serious was detected.

Soon after travelling to her Algarve home, however, she began experiencing severe abdominal pain. After two days confined to bed, her husband Robert Sullivan rushed her to a private hospital. Doctors quickly realised the situation was critical - her appendix had burst - and she was transferred urgently to Faro Hospital for emergency bowel surgery.

A ruptured appendix is a medical emergency, as it can cause a dangerous infection in the abdomen. Bonnie’s team later confirmed she had been placed in an induced coma to “aid her recovery” following the operation.

At first, she was said to be stable in an intermediate care unit. But when her condition worsened, she was moved to intensive care, where she remains under close supervision.

A devoted husband by her side

Throughout the ordeal, Bonnie’s husband Robert has reportedly barely left her side, only returning home at night to rest.

Family friends say he is immensely grateful to the medical team caring for her in Portugal and believes their swift intervention has made all the difference.

Bonnie is thought to have been admitted to hospital on April 30, after continuing to work despite weeks of persistent pain, a testament to her famously determined spirit.

What is cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, cutting off blood flow to the brain and body. It causes immediate collapse and requires urgent resuscitation. Swift medical action is absolutely vital.

While Bonnie’s representatives have not yet directly addressed the reports that she suffered cardiac arrest, the focus now is firmly on her recovery.

A fighter through and through

Bonnie Tyler has never been one to do things by halves. With decades of chart hits, international tours and even representing the UK at Eurovision in 2013, she’s built a reputation as one of Britain’s most resilient performers.

Now, fans across the world are rallying behind her once more, sending heartfelt messages and hoping to see that unmistakable husky-voiced star back where she belongs.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

She rose to fame in the Nineties as a successful model, but over the years Penny Lancaster, 55, has become just as familiar on television screens as she was in glossy magazines. For over a decade, Penny has been a regular fixture on Loose Women, and that’s where many viewers feel they’ve really got to know her.

Of course, she’s also known for her almost two‑decade long marriage to Sir Rod Stewart. The pair married in 2007 and share two sons, with her also stepping up as step-mum to his older children.
Here, Penny talks Yours through the lessons she’s learnt about marriage, motherhood, and the ups and downs that come with getting older in the public eye. Plus, how she stays grounded with Sir Rod, and her love for gardening.

Giving back keeps success meaningful

'Rod and I both have those moments when we look around and see the life we’ve created for each other and our family. It’s one of the reasons it’s important to us both to give back through charity work. We realised very early on in our relationship that, taking experiences from past relationships and learning from them, we should always be honest with each other. Rod is very good at supporting me and championing me. We support and encourage each other. We have similar values.'

There’s beauty in our differences

'We have disagreements on Loose Women but it’s healthy. I think the beauty of it is our differing opinions about everything – it makes the show interesting. We don’t fall out over it. We respect that we have different opinions and agree to disagree.'

Nature is great for grounding yourself

'I am a very keen gardener. It goes back to childhood. My parents were always in the garden, tending to bedding plants, creating a pond or whatever. I did a similar thing with my boys Alastair and Aiden when they were younger. Being in nature is great for grounding yourself.'

Sharing your story can help others feel less alone

'I loved writing my book Someone Like Me – the best thing about it has been seeing how elements of my life, like being sexually assaulted, for instance, have connected with people who’ve been through a similar experience and how it’s made them realise they’re not alone. So many have reached out to me at book signings and also on my socials.'

In their last moments together, Merrill Osmond whispered a poignant plea in his dying brother Alan’s ear: ‘Please give my son Troy a big hug for me.’

‘Alan looked at me and promised he would. And, somehow, I believe that promise has been kept,’ he told Yours following Alan’s passing last month, aged 76, after a long struggle with multiple sclerosis.

As devout members of the Mormon faith, the legendary Seventies singing family from Utah shares an unshakeable belief in the afterlife. Merrill is certain they’ll all reunite in heaven and Troy, who died of a heart problem at 33, will receive his uncle’s embrace.

With their strong religious beliefs and wholesome lifestyle – strictly no drugs or alcohol – the Osmonds burst onto the pop scene in the Seventies to top the charts.

Almost as soon as they set foot on British soil, Merrill, Donny, Alan, Wayne and Jay – who were later followed on stage by sister Marie and youngest brother Jimmy – became overnight heartthrobs.

Obsessed teenage girls stopped at nothing to get close to them, even getting them banned from landing at Heathrow after an airport bridge teeming with fans collapsed.

‘One time a freight company delivered a huge box. When it was opened, it contained two girls. Almost unbelievably, our fans had mailed themselves to us,’ added Merrill.

Now, 73, and retired from touring, Merrill wouldn’t wish to return to those heady days though.

‘I had to starve myself all week just to squeeze into one of those Elvis-inspired jumpsuits we wore,’ he recalls. ‘We all had to look exactly the same and even smile the same smile.’

On a whirlwind trip to England last year to promote his new memoir Black Bear, Merrill could safely walk the streets and can now eat what he likes, within reason, without every mouthful being monitored.

‘I’m still dicing with doctors though,’ he adds, pointing out he has six stents in his heart and recently suffered two more mini strokes. The latter is particularly poignant as Wayne, with whom he and Alan co-wrote all the songs, died of a stroke in January last year. He was the first brother to pass; Alan is the second. ‘Those men are rare,’ he says, adding that their love for others was unconditional.

Comforted by his last moments with Alan, he added, ‘We talked, as brothers do, heart to heart. He was struggling, but when I shared a joke or two, he found the strength to chuckle. His life was not measured in years but in love, sacrifice and purpose. He has not left me. I have felt him and his quiet encouragement telling me to keep going. He is home.’

Merrill’s equally comforted by a dream of Wayne soaking in a bath. Frantically warning him they’d be late on stage, he awoke relieved that that part of their lives is over.

Originally, their parents, George and Olive Osmond wanted to raise funds to buy hearing aids for their two deaf eldest sons and created a barbershop quartet playing for church events. By 1961, they were performing at Disneyland, soon followed by The Andy Williams Show. In the days of live TV with no room for mistakes, they become known as the ‘one take’ Osmonds for their flawless performances. Worldwide fame followed.

As well as performing for presidents, Merrill has rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest names in entertainment, from Elvis to Frank Sinatra, Paul McCartney and Bee Gee Maurice Gibb (who terrifyingly produced a gun during a flight they were on!).

But there were downsides. The family made a fortune, but also lost around $80 million after ‘putting our trust in the wrong people’ and a change of TV trends. ‘Showbusiness is fickle and trends change. We just didn’t see it coming,’ he admits.

Like his father, Merrill, who originally wanted to be a doctor, has suffered all his life from depression and anxiety which he attributes to the early stress of performing.

Named by George as ‘peacemaker’ of the family, Merrill, the middle child, says, ‘As a very sensitive personality, entertaining would have probably been the last thing I would have wanted to pursue. Even if I could, I wouldn’t want to turn the clock back to the Seventies.’

Choosing to share his story in his book, he hopes to help others with similar mental health problems but he’s quick to make it clear he has no regrets about his life.

‘I am blessed! My entertainment career really started at the age of four. That’s a long time to have been working in this business.’

Happily married to Mary, they share five living children and 15 grandchildren. Since officially retiring from touring, Merrill is looking forward to taking his grandchildren fishing. Old habits die hard, though. He has a new solo album, Unbroken, out this month and is working on one with his grandchildren.

‘We were always told the show must go on…’ he smiles.

Carole Richardson is a journalist and ghostwriter who has contributed to Yours magazine for over fifteen years, interviewing celebrities and extraordinary everyday people. She began ghostwriting nearly a decade ago, with her first book becoming a Sunday Times top ten bestseller.

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The first trailer has landed for Nicola Walker’s new comedy Alice and Steve, giving fans a sharp, funny and increasingly chaotic look at her latest TV role.

Best known for Unforgotten, Nicola plays Alice in the so-called “wrong-com” about friendship, family and everything going spectacularly wrong.

At the centre of it all is Alice and Steve, lifelong friends whose easy bond starts to unravel when Steve (Jemaine Clement) gets involved with Alice’s daughter, Izzy (played by Yali Topol Margalith).

In the first-look trailer, things begin lightly enough, with the pair chatting in a bar. Alice jokes to a group of younger strangers: “We’ve known each other for over 30 years… how old do you think we are?”

When they guess “like 60?” she laughs it off, insisting: “They have no idea how cool we are.”

But the tone quickly shifts as Steve admits, “I wish I was in love,” with Alice reassuring him: “You deserve to be loved. Anybody would be lucky to have you.”

Once Izzy enters the picture, everything gets complicated. A flirtatious moment turns into a kiss, and before long she’s telling her mum she’s slept with Steve and wants to keep seeing him.

Alice initially laughs it off, before realising it’s serious, while Steve is left stuck in the middle of the fallout.

At one point, he even tries to explain himself with cards, asking: “Which one of these says ‘sorry I had sex with your daughter’?”

From failed attempts to fit in with Izzy’s friends (who bluntly say “he’s so old”) to strained family dinners, the situation only gets messier.

Steve eventually admits, “I’m too old for you,” but Izzy shrugs it off: “Yeah, but you don’t seem old.”

Alice and Steve is coming to Disney+ on Monday 8th June 2026.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Spring brings brighter days, blooming flowers and for many of us, hay fever. But what some dog owners don’t realise is that their pets can suffer from it too.

The difference is, it doesn’t always look like human hay fever.

Vet Dr Emma Chandley explains that dogs don’t usually sneeze or get watery eyes like we do. Instead, the signs are often much more subtle and tend to show up on their skin and in their behaviour.

“Hay fever in dogs is usually part of an allergic skin condition triggered by things like pollen,” she says. “It can be easy to miss at first because the symptoms develop gradually.”

The most common dog hay fever symptoms

So, what should we be looking out for? According to Dr Emma, the common signs include:

• Licking or chewing their paws more than usual

• Mild redness between the toes

• Rubbing their face on furniture or carpets

• Ear irritation or frequent head shaking

“These symptoms might seem small,” she explains, “but they can be early signs of an allergic reaction.”

What triggers hayfever in dogs?

Just like humans, dogs can react to pollen in the air. Around 1 in 10 dogs are thought to suffer from some form of allergic dermatitis, which can flare up during spring and summer.

And because the symptoms come and go with the seasons, owners don’t always spot the pattern straight away.

How to treat dog hayfever safely

While you can’t stop pollen completely, taking a few small steps to allergy-proof your home can really help:

• Wipe your dog’s paws and belly after walks

• Wash bedding more often during high pollen days

• Avoid walks during very high pollen counts if possible

• Rinse off your dog if they’ve been in long grass

Some canines may also benefit from soothing dog shampoos or omega-3 supplements, which can help support skin health.

When to speak to your vet

If symptoms persist, it’s best to get advice.

“Antihistamines can sometimes be used in dogs, but they don’t always work well,” says Dr Emma. “And human medications should never be given without veterinary guidance.”

In more severe cases, vets may prescribe treatment or look at longer-term allergy management.

Why it’s important not to ignore it

Left untreated, constant scratching or licking can lead to sore skin and even infections.

“It’s not just about itchiness,” Dr Emma says. “Ongoing irritation can affect a dog’s comfort and quality of life.”

She adds that sudden skin changes in older dogs should always be checked, as they may not be allergies at all.

Dr Emma Chandley, who works with pet insurance brand Petgevity, is a vet with over 13 years’ experience working with small animals and regularly advises pet owners on common health concerns.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Want a treat this summer? Instead of watching TV – why don’t you get off your sofa and try an immersive experience of your favourite show?

Step directly into the worlds you’ve only seen on screen. Instead of simply watching your favourite characters and settings, you can feel like you’re actually taking part in the action unfolding around you.

From The Great British Bake Off to The Traitors, here are some of the best immersive TV experiences to catch over the coming months.

The Traitors Live

Who hasn’t fantasised about been under Claudia’s kohl-eyed gaze while shaking out duplicitous traitors and romping home with the prize? Or even fooling the Faithfuls with treacherous skullduggery? The Traitors Live brings the delicious paranoia of the hit TV show into an experience that’s perfect for both faithful fans and Machiavellian masters. There’s a Traitors-themed cocktail, a tartan-clad host (not the actual Claudia sadly), pulse-quickening challenges and an impressive replica of the iconic round table, where accusations fly and alliances crumble.

Players don blacked-out goggles while the Traitors secretly plot their next move.

Challenges range from deciphering cryptic tarot-style clues to aligning astrological symbols. Some tasks feel complex under time pressure, though hands-on guidance keeps things going. Atmospheric lighting and committed performances help maintain the tension.

The Traitors: Live Experience runs in London until September 6th. Tickets start from £29.50 and can be booked online, with options for private rooms or individual seats within shared games via The Traitors Live Experience.

Race Across The World: The Experience

If you’ve been avidly following the intrepid pairs making their way across the globe, determined to beat their rivals, but can’t afford the cash or the time to do it yourself, this could be the next best thing! This isn’t in an enclosed building but seeks to truly mimic the Race Across The World Experience by having players navigating the streets of either London, York, Edinburgh & Bristol. You work as a team and outwit competitors and unlock hidden secrets of the city in an unforgettable race to the finish line! Just like in the show, Race Across the World: The Experience requires strategy, teamwork, and quick-thinking, as players will be given a budget to manage as they race through the city. This budget can be spent on valuable clues to help navigate the next leg of the journey, giving players the freedom to decide how daring they want to be. Every decision could count and influence the race, but beware each clue comes at a cost. Players will be scored based on their time and how much budget they have left, with their final score ranked on a live leaderboard throughout the day and week. ​​

Race Across The World Experience runs until 30 June 2026. Tickets start from £25, with more information and bookings available via Race Across The World Experience.

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience

If you were a fan of The Crystal Maze in the 90s with the iconic Richard O’Brien being ringmaster of all manner of challenges, this one is a must.

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience is a fully immersive, team-based attraction inspired by the classic 1990s UK TV game show. Instead of watching contestants on TV, you and your team become the players, guided by a theatrical “Maze Master” through a series of themed challenge zones over 75 minutes. It boasts it’s the longest continuously running immersive experience in the world, and fans praise the exhilarating production values, saying it feels just like being in the show.

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience is available in London from £79 per person and in Manchester from £39 per person. More information and bookings can be found via The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience.

Vikings: The Immersive Experience

Glued to Netflix’s Vikings? Step into the saga yourself in this immersive London experience inspired by the hit series. Using state-of-the-art technology and theatrical design, the journey transports visitors to the 9th century and the lands of the Norse. While many stories centre around Ragnar Lothbrok’s raids, this adventure follows the powerful Queen Kraka, also known as Aslaug—daughter of Sigurd and Brynhildr—whose prophecies shaped a legendary dynasty.

Begin with a cinematic prologue set in 793 AD, the year of the Lindisfarne raid, before entering the Forest of Time, an interactive space exploring Viking life, rituals, and beliefs. Encounter a towering Yggdrasil, experience virtual reality beneath its branches, examine replica artifacts, and question a digital Kraka. Try tying a traditional Viking knot as an audio guide deepens your understanding of Norse culture.

Pass through the Mist of Time to a spectacular 30-minute, 360-degree finale featuring video mapping, a stirring score, and a full-size Viking longship at its heart. Perfect for history buffs, school groups, and devoted fans.

Vikings: Immersive Experience runs until 31 August. Tickets start from £23 for adults and £19 for children, with more information and bookings available via Vikings Immersive Experience.

Quiz Box – The TV Gameshow Experience

Are you the kind of person who shouts the answers while watching all those TV quiz shows? While not based on a specific TV format, fans of The Chase and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, will recognise the tense music, the spotlights and the pressure … Quiz Box – The TV Gameshow Experience, puts you in the hot seat. Choose from themes like Music, TV & Cinema, Sports, History and Geography, and Pop Culture. Or try special editions, like Best of the 80s, 100% Naughty and Taylor Swift. There are six fast-paced rounds packed with tension, strategy, and laughter. And if you find your mind goes blank, take advantage of the jokers to attack, bet or even cheat your opponents! Assemble your group of 4 to 12 players, enter the arena, and step up the podium. Even if you can’t get on a real quiz show, hone your skills here.

Quiz Boxing is available in London, Belfast and Glasgow, with tickets from £15 per player. More information and bookings are available via Quiz Boxing.

The Big Bakes

Not officially linked to The Great British Bake Off, but anyone wanting a taste of that TV show could do worse to book Big Bakes. It’s an award-winning immersive baking experience where guests bake the designated theme of the month in pairs in a fully decked out marquee, guided by a professional baker, with everything pre-weighed, prepped, and ready to go over 90 minutes. The setting looks pleasingly familiar, but no Paul Hollywood twinkling in the background. All you have to bring is your competitive spirit and you might even bag a prize at the end for the winning pair, Perfect for get-togethers where you get to bake your cake and eat it too. We’re sure there will be no soggy bottoms in sight!

The Big Bakes is available in Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool from £45.99 per person. More information and bookings are available via The Big Bakes.

The Gladiators Experience

Contenders, ready! Down at Birmingham NEC, it’s Saturday TV time in the 90s again, minus Ulrika and John Fashanu presenting. Spanning more than 100,000 sq ft, The Gladiators Experience is a full-scale, fully immersive attraction where visitors of all ages and abilities can take on the challenges of the hit BBC show for themselves inside. The experience promises iconic challenges including Hang Tough, Duel, The Wall, Travelator and Eliminator. The enormous immersive event also offers a gladiator ‘training facility’ and behind-the-scenes insights into the show.

The Gladiators Experience runs until Monday 31 August. Tickets are priced from £39.50 for contenders and £17.50 for spectators, with more information and bookings available via Gladiators Experience.

Game of Thrones: The Mad King

Come face to face with familiar characters from the houses Targaryen, Stark, Lannister, Baratheon and Martell and witness the events that set the stage for the world’s most critically acclaimed series. More of a show than an immersive experience, however it will bring you straight into the action. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre auditorium is transformed, bringing the story to life around you. Playing on a cross shaped stage, no two seats will offer the same experience or viewpoint. Spanning the final years before the events of the novels, this drama reveals a legendary chapter of Westerosi history.

The action starts at a lavish banquet on the eve of a jousting tournament. But something is brewing … Family bonds, ancient prophecies, and the sacred line of succession will be tested in a dangerous campaign for power. Who will survive? Who will rise?

Game of Thrones: The Mad King plays at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre from Monday 20 July to Saturday 5 September 2026. Tickets start from £18 via the Royal Shakespeare Company.

The Faulty Towers Dining Experience

While this isn’t an ‘official’ immersive experience, (the clue is in the wrong spelling of Fawlty!) it’s a long-running and popular one. The show transforms dinner into immersive comedy, with your hosts Basil, Sybil, and. Don’t expect haute cuisine – it’s 70s style grub.  But do expect a good, solid, fun night out for fans of the sitcom. Expect to ‘enjoy’ Basil’s seething welcome as soon as you arrive. The actors convincingly channel their television counterparts throughout, reproducing familiar voices, gestures, and timing. Enjoy vignettes of the original comedy classic moments –  the pet rat, the fire drill, the goose-step and plenty of improv!  A nostalgic night out with dinner. Just don’t mention the war.

From £65 per person in London. Running until December 2026. More information and tickets are available via Faulty Towers Live in London.

Lucy Hunter is a senior content creator across different titles, such as Bella, Take a Break, and of course yours.co.uk.  After three decades in journalism, she’s covered just about everything – from travel and true-life stories to health and emotional wellbeing – and still loves uncovering the human angle in every subject.

You may have come across the term “death doula” in the news recently — but what does it actually mean, and why are more people seeking one out? The answer might surprise you. In fact, you may already posses many of the qualities needed to become one yourself.

Most of us are familiar with birth doulas, who support families through pregnancy, labour and early parenthood. Death doulas — sometimes called soul midwives or end-of-life doulas — offer a similar kind of presence and guidance, but at life’s final chapter. Over the past decade, their role has been gaining visibility as more people look for compassionate, personalised support around dying, grief and legacy.

What is a death doula?

At its heart, a death doula is a compassionate, trained companion who supports people living with a terminal diagnosis, as well as those closest to them. Whatever a person’s age or stage of illness, a death doula offers calm, steady reassurance. As a non-medical presence, their role is not to treat or cure, but to ensure that someone feels heard, respected and fully themselves right to the very end.

Through emotional, practical and sometimes spiritual support, an end-of-life doula provides continuity during what can be an uncertain and overwhelming time. With empathy, experience and a willingness to listen, they help individuals and families navigate difficult conversations, honour personal wishes and shape a final chapter that feels as peaceful, meaningful and dignified as possible.

Interest in the role has grown significantly in recent years. Emma Clare, chief executive of End of Life Doula UK, says the number of people training to become a doula has increased by 42% between 2023 and 2025. A number of high-profile figures are also said to be exploring training, including Nicole Kidman and Ruby Wax, while presenter Davina McCall has spoken about her intention to qualify when she retires.

What does a death doula do?

"Being a doula is the greatest gift of love. To have a neutral, kind, compassionate, trained and safe stranger walk alongside you during your final days on earth," says Jane O'Riordan, who has been caring for bereaved families for that last seven years and been working as a death doula for the last five.

For Jane, death doulas provide a vital service, bridging the gap between medical and community end-of-life care.

"What’s really important about the doula role is that you meet somebody where they are. We sit and we listen. We hold that space. Once people start to talk, it all comes tumbling out. Over time, you can work out what’s needed for them and their families."

This ‘need’ can cover a huge range of things — from walking dogs and picking up prescriptions to explaining what actually happens to the body when you die, and even arranging the setting and atmosphere someone wants in their final moments.

"Some people want to feel like they're at the beach, so I've set up a sandbox with pebbles, salty water and wave sounds.

"I’ve even worked with someone using a VR headset. He was a scientist in his 90s who wanted to go back to Malaysia to die but was too ill, so we were able to set up that up using virtual reality."

For Jane, having the opportunity to choose how you leave this earth is one of the greatest gifts a doula can give.

"It’s about living well before you take your last breath," she says. "That’s what the doula does. We prepare. You do a birth plan — you choose where you want to give birth, who you want there. Why don’t we do that for dying?"

Death doulas can provide a huge amount of practical support when it comes to filling in forms, arranging GP appointments and helping with the huge amount of death administration, but their physical presence with someone who is taking their last breath can be vital — especially if they're alone.

"I was supporting a doula last night whose client had just died," Jane explains. "She had dreadful lung cancer and didn’t want an oxygen mask over her face — it felt like suffocation. The doctors had given her all the medication possible; she was very agitated. The doula sat with her and said, 'I’m here. I love you. Look into my eyes,' stroking her hand. How amazing that she was able to help her die peacefully. What a gift."

What qualities or skills do you need to become a death doula?

End-of-life doulas come from a whole range of backgrounds and can include; housewives, carers, teachers, accountants, journalists, or nurses.

You do not need prior medical training. Many who are drawn to the job have experience in palliative care others may have a therapeutic or counselling background but many come from corporate environments.

"Some of the key qualities of being a death doula are being self-aware, reflective, calm in a crisis, compassionate, non-judgemental and culturally competent," says Emma Clare, Chief executive of EOLD UK.
Currently the majority of trained death doulas in the UK are women, but EOLD UK are hoping to increase diversity and attract people from more varied backgrounds to better reflect the people they support.

According to death doula Jane, many of us have already carried out aspects of the death doula role. We’ve helped neighbours, family or friends navigate the stages of grief, or done a food shop for someone who’s caring for a terminally ill loved one.
"If you like human beings and are prepared to learn what it means to sit with someone who is dying — you are a doula," says Jane.

How to become a death doula

The first step to becoming a end-of-life doula is become a member of EOLD UK and to do this you must complete a foundation training course with Living Well Dying Well and received their certification.

Membership provides access to a network of peers, continued professional development opportunities, mentorship and essential resources to support your work as a doula.

To work as an EOLD member, you will also need to be DBS checked, follow the Code of Practice and have appropriate insurance.

Emma Clare gave us her advice for anyone looking to start a career as a death doula.

"Firstly I would say do the foundation training which is for anyone who is going to experience death and dying (all of us!) and that will give you a good idea of whether progressing to become an end of life doula is for you.

"Secondly, start working on your own death literacy and competency - attend a Death Cafe, read With the End in Mind by Dr Kathryn Mannix (a great introduction to this area filled with honest stories), and start talking to your friends, family, neighbours and colleagues about death and dying so you can feel whether it is right for you."

How much does a death doula earn?

If you're wanting to earn a large salary, this probably isn't the right job for you. Many death doulas work as volunteers if families can't afford to pay. Others charge around £20 to £45 per hour. Many death doulas work part-time, fitting their care around other jobs. Also remember that you'll have to pay the cost of the training too.
EOLD UK have many people on their waiting lists who want to train but can't afford the course, you can help them get trained by donating here.

Will more death doulas be needed in the future?

The need for death doulas is only likely to grow in the future as we have an ever more ageing population. The way we live has changed vastly; once upon a time, there would be people in communities who helped women giving birth and likely supported those in death too. We no longer live in close-knit families and villages, and many people are facing death alone as a consequence.

"It takes a village to raise a child. It takes a village to die," says Jane. "We don’t have those villages anymore."

According to public health sociologist Professor Allan Kellehear, seriously ill and dying people spend little more than 5% of their final year of life in the direct care of healthcare services; the other 95% relies on relatives, friends or others without healthcare backgrounds to provide support.

Emma Clare tells me that the ultimate aim of the charity EOLD UK is to work themselves out of being needed.

"We believe that everyone should have this knowledge about how to care for someone who is dying and ideally you wouldn’t need a doula because there would be someone in every household, on every street, who knows what to do."

Emma Clare is the Chief Executive Officer of EOLD UK. She led the organisation’s transformation from a Community Interest Company into a registered charity, positioning it as a world leader in the rapidly growing international end-of-life doula movement. She also negotiated and delivered the first NHS-commissioned end-of-life doula projects, which have since been shared internationally as innovative models of community end-of-life care.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 16 years' experience writing for women over 50. In her previous role she was deputy editor on Yours magazine for nine years, before moving over to Yours.co.uk. She has recently trained become an accredited Executive Menopause Coach, so that she can better support those going through the menopause in the workplace.

Looking for more celeb news? Click here to keep our interviews and TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Channel 5 has released the first-look trailer for Number One Fan, a new thriller starring Jill Halfpenny and Sally Lindsay.

Set in the world of daytime television, the series follows morning show host Lucy Logan (Halfpenny) and her fan Donna (Lindsay), whose admiration quickly begins to cross the line into obsession.

Number One Fan trailer

The official trailer opens with Lucy signing off from her show before meeting Donna, who excitedly tells her she watches every episode and calls herself her “number one fan”.

At first, Lucy invites Donna into the studio, but the relationship soon becomes uneasy as Donna’s behaviour grows more intense and invasive.

As the story unfolds, Donna begins appearing wherever Lucy goes, leaving behind unsettling messages and suggesting she knows secrets from the presenter’s past.

Tension builds further when Donna claims the truth about Lucy is about to be exposed, while Lucy becomes increasingly fearful of her presence.

The Number One Fan trailer ends with a dramatic confrontation between the pair, hinting at a dangerous fallout between fan and star.

Dawn French was among those reacting to the trailer, commenting: “Oooo this looks good! X” on Instagram.

Number One Fan airs on Channel 5 at 9pm on Monday 4th May 2026.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Viewers have have been gripped by Channel 5’s new drama Number One Fan which stars Jill Halfpenny and Sally Lindsay as a TV presenter and a seemingly devoted fan.

What starts as a kind gesture quickly spirals into something far more unsettling in this tense four-part thriller about fame and obsession.

Want to know who else is the cast of Number One Fan and where else you might've seen them? Check out this list:

Jill Halfpenny as Lucy Logan

Who is Lucy Logan? Lucy is a popular morning TV presenter known as the nation’s sweetheart and host of Lucy Live. On screen, she’s warm, confident and always smiling, but behind the scenes, she’s ambitious, driven and not afraid to be ruthless.

What else has Jill Halfpenny been in? Jill landed her breakout role as Nicola Dobson in Byker Grove at just 14 years old. She has since gone on to star in two major soaps - Coronation Street and EastEnders - as well as many dramas, including Waterloo Road, The Feud, In the Club, The Drowning, Liar, Girl Taken and After the Flood.

Sally Lindsay as Donna Hughes

Who is Donna Hughes? Donna appears shy and harmless at first, an unassuming fan who saves Lucy from a horrific attack. But Lucy’s gratitude doesn’t last long, as Donna’s fixation quickly deepens into something far more unsettling.

What else has Sally Lindsay been in? Sally Lindsay rose to fame playing barmaid Shelley Unwin in the ITV soap opera Coronation Street. She is widely recognised for Mount Pleasant and Scott & Bailey, but has also been in Love Rat, Intruder, Cold Call and Still Open All Hours. She has also written and starred in The Madame Blanc Mysteries.

Dean Andrews as Stewart Jones

Who is Stewart Jones? Stewart is a TV host who's been exiled for reasons that soon become clear in the series.

What else has Dean Andrews been in? The actor is best known for playing DS Ray Crosby in Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes. He also played Will Taylor in Emmerdale and Robbie in Last Tango in Halifax.

Daniel Adegboyega as Shaun Logan

Who is Shaun Logan? Shaun Logan is Lucy Logan's partner.

What else has Daniel Adegboyega been in? He has appeared in the films Skyfall, Underground and Transformers: The Last Knight. Some of the shows he has been in include Sanctuary: A Witch's Tale, The Tower and Save Me.

Sharlene Whyte as Mel

Who is Mel? Mel is Lucy Logan's manager.

What else has Sharlene Whyte been in? Viewers may know Sharlene from dramas such as The Story of Tracy Beaker, Waterloo Road, We Hunt Together, The Doll Factory, Stephen, Mr Loverman and Sherwood.

Number One Fan cast

Here's the full cast list for Number One Fan:

• Jill Halfpenny plays Lucy Logan
• Sally Lindsay plays Donna Hughes
• Daniel Adegboyega plays Shawn Logan
• Dean Andrews plays Stewart Jones
• Sharlene Whyte plays Mel
• Harvey Rhys-Conway plays Jacob Logan
• Erin Shanagher plays Jane Shelley
• Tiffany Gray plays Tabbie Marwell
• Ben Stevenson Langley plays Ben Hughes
• Freddie Dawson plays Vince
• Sushil Chudasama plays Tommy
• Bryan Quinn plays Ruairi
• James O’Driscoll plays Cillian Carr

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

One of the BBC’s most-loved comedies, Amandaland, is back for season 2, and Amanda is causing just as much chaos as ever.

The Motherland spin-off, led by Lucy Punch, follows her character as she navigates friendships, family life and plenty of very relatable social mishaps. If you’re ready to catch up or dive in for the first time, here’s exactly how to watch Amandaland.

How to watch Amandaland for free

If you’re in the UK, the easiest - and only - way to watch Amandaland season 2 is on BBC One, where it airs weekly from 9pm on Wednesday 6th May, or you can stream all six episodes on BBC iPlayer.

Both seasons are available to stream free of charge, as long as you have a valid TV licence. It’s the best option if you want to watch the latest episodes as soon as they land.

Where else to watch Amandaland

If you can’t access BBC iPlayer, there are still plenty of ways to watch series one:

• Netflix – Season 1 is available, with plans starting from £5.99 a month.

• Disney+ – Currently offering a limited-time deal from £3.99 a month for three months (offer ends 6th May).

• YouTube – Episodes are available to buy from £1.99 (SD) or £2.49 (HD), or the full series for £9.99.

• Amazon Prime Video – Season 1 is currently discounted to £5.99 in HD (usually £12.99).

• Apple TV+ – Episodes available from £2.49 each.

Is Amandaland worth watching?

If you loved Motherland, Amandaland is well worth adding to your watch list. With Lucy Punch front and centre, the show delivers the same sharp humour and painfully relatable moments, all with Amanda’s signature over-the-top style.

Familiar faces from Motherland, including Philippa Dunne and Joanna Lumley, return alongside her, while a host of new characters and fresh faces bring even more chaos, comedy and unexpected twists to the mix.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

You’ll likely recognise actress Lucy Punch as the gloriously self-promoting, deliciously cringeworthy Amanda Hughes in the hit BBC comedy Amandaland. While Lucy has enjoyed a long and varied career across television and film, it was her scene-stealing turn as the snooty PTA queen bee in Motherland that propelled her into the spotlight — and ultimately earned her a spin-off series of her own.

Following a hugely acclaimed first season Christmas Special, Amandaland ihas returned for a second series, boasting an impressive cast. Joanna Lumley stars as Amanda’s sharp-tongued, impeccably opinionated mother, Felicity, while Pam Ferris appears as Amanda’s elderly neighbour.

But who is the woman behind SoHa’s (South Harlesden’s) most talked-about collaboration with Kitchens, Kitchens and Bathrooms? Let's find out...

Who is Lucy Punch?

Lucy Punch is a British actress known for her sharp comic timing and brilliantly offbeat performances. She was born on December 30, 1977, in Hammersmith, London, and grew up in the capital.
Her parents are Joanna and Michael Punch, her mother was a market researcher and her father ran his own company.

Lucy originally considered a more conventional career path and attended the prestigious Godolphin and Latymer School in West London, with former students being TV presenter Davina McCall and celebrity chef Nigella Lawson . However, her love of performance began at a young age, and she became involved in school plays and the National Youth Theatre, where she honed her craft. Although she had planned to study history at university, her acting career took off before she enrolled. In the late 1990s, she began landing television roles, with early appearances in series such as The New Adventures of Robin Hood and Renford Rejects. From there, she steadily built a career playing eccentric, sharp-edged and often scene-stealing characters, establishing herself as one of Britain’s most distinctive comic talents.

How old is Lucy Punch?

Lucy was born on December 30, 1977, making her 48-years-old.

What TV shows and films has Lucy Punch starred in?

After honing her craft with the National Youth Theatre between 1993 and 1997, Lucy landed one of her first TV roles in the 1999 sitcom Let Them Eat Cake, starring comedy legends Jennifer Saunders and Dawn French. Although the show was cancelled after just one series, it marked the beginning of Lucy’s steady rise through the ranks of British television.

Following small parts in favourites including Midsomer Murders and Doc Martin, Lucy made a bold decision in the mid-2000s to relocate to the US. Explaining her move, she later said: “I moved to the States because I kept getting cast as posh idiots. I was like, this is boring. I know I can do more than this.”

The gamble soon paid off. She landed a role in American sitcom The Class, created by Friends co-creator David Crane, and in 2004 appeared in Ella Enchanted as Hattie, the delightfully awful stepsister to Anne Hathaway’s Ella.

By 2007, Lucy was firmly on the big screen, starring in Edgar Wright’s hit comedy Hot Fuzz as unfortunate murder victim Eve Draper, and appearing as school bully Verity Thwaites in St Trinian’s that same year.

In 2010, she stepped into a role in Woody Allen’s You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger after Nicole Kidman withdrew from the project. Playing Charmaine, the glamorous girlfriend of Anthony Hopkins’ character, Lucy later described the opportunity as life-changing. However, she has since spoken candidly about the controversy surrounding the director, telling The Independent that while she was proud of the role and had a positive experience, it now feels “tainted” in light of wider concerns.

Hollywood continued to call, and in 2011 she starred opposite Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake in Bad Teacher as the hilariously intense Amy Squirrel. She’s also appeared in Netflix’s A Series of Unfortunate Events and in How to Build a Girl, where she played Sylvia Plath.

Of course, it was in 2016 that Lucy took on the role that would truly make her a household name: the deliciously dreadful Amanda in Motherland — a character so popular she later earned her own spin-off, Amandaland. Reflecting on Amanda’s journey, Lucy has said: “I’ve always thought of Amanda as an arrested teenager. She’s a mean girl. Now it’s almost like she’s coming of age, growing up a bit, having to make friends, having to try.”

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Lucy more recently jetted off to the Bahamas to face her fear of sharks on Shark! Celebrity Infested Waters, joining a brave line-up including Helen George, Ade Adepitan, Rachel Riley, Dougie Poynter, Lenny Henry and Ross Noble.

Who is Lucy Punch's husband?

When it comes to her love life, Lucy has been happily partnered (not married) with artist Dinos Chapman since 2014. Dinos – whose full name is Konstantinos Chapman – is a well-known British visual artist and was one half of the provocative art duo The Chapman Brothers. These days, he’s said to work independently from a studio inside the couple’s Hollywood home.

Born in London in 1962, Dinos is reportedly 63 years old. According to MailOnline, Lucy and Dinos began their relationship in 2014 following his split from his former wife, Tiphaine de Lussy, with whom he shares two daughters. While the pair tend to keep their life together relatively low-key, it’s clear they’ve built a creative world of their own across the pond.

Does Lucy Punch have children?

Yes. In 2015, Lucy and Dino welcomed their first son Rex. She also later welcomed a second son, but hasn't released his name. As for Dino, he's also dad to two daughters from his previous marriage to Tiphaine de Lussy.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

The BBC has released the first trailer for Amandaland series two, giving fans a fresh glimpse at what’s in store as it confirms the hit comedy will return.

The comedy spin-off, which stars Lucy Punch and Joanna Lumley, is set to return to BBC One and iPlayer on the 6th May 2026, with an updated cast for series 2.

Following last year’s Christmas special, with Amanda once again stepping into the chaos of modern parenting, teenage drama and suburban life in SoHa (South Harlesden).

The newly released trailer gives fans a fresh look at what’s ahead, teasing more of Amanda’s ongoing attempts to balance ambition, family life and the ever-changing realities of raising teenagers — as well as a closer look at Amanda's outfits which are super stylish!

Philippa Dunne returns as Anne, Amanda’s sidekick, with Samuel Anderson back as Mal, her neighbour and potential love interest. Joanna Lumley also reprises her role as Felicity, ensuring Amanda’s world remains as complicated as ever, with plenty of sharp exchanges and mother-daughter tension.

Amandaland is a spin-off from the hit BBC comedy Motherland, which followed the lives of middle-class parents navigating school gate politics and social pressures.

The first series proved a major success for the BBC, quickly becoming one of its strongest new comedy launches in recent years.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Sweetie darlings, sparkles and nibbles at the ready – the Amandaland Christmas special is on its way! The BBC has confirmed that the hit comedy will return for a festive special ahead of its second series in 2026, after Joanna Lumley let the news slip on The Chris Evans Breakfast Show earlier this month.

After the first series of the Motherland spin-off proved a huge success, averaging 5.7 million viewers, anticipation for the special is already sky-high.

The episode will reunite the beloved cast – Lucy Punch, Joanna Lumley and Philippa Dunne – and welcomes the absolutely fabulous Jennifer Saunders, marking her first scripted on-screen reunion with Joanna Lumley since Absolutely Fabulous.

Jennifer will play Aunt Joan, Felicity’s (Lumley) sister, a whirlwind of country-living, upper-class bluster who is very, very different from her sibling.

Who's in the cast of the Amandaland Christmas special?

The confirmed returning cast includes:

• The confirmed returning cast includes:

• Lucy Punch as Amanda Hughes

• Joanna Lumley as Felicity Sanderson

• Philippa Dunne as Anne Flynn

• Jennifer Saunders as Aunt Joan

While the rest of the casting is yet to be announced, we’re expecting to see some of our favourite characters return including:

• Samuel Anderson as Mal

• Siobhán McSweeney as Della Fry

• Rochenda Sandall as Fi

• Ekow Quartey as JJ

• Peter Serafinowicz as Johannes Van der Velde

• Miley Locke as Georgie

• Anya McKenna-Bruce as Morten

• Alexander Shaw as Manus

• Jack Veal as Darius

• Archie Smith as Ned

Lucy Punch, who plays Amanda said: “I’m beyond excited to get started on Amandaland series two with our brilliantly talented lovely cast. The Christmas special is going to be an absolute cracker – it’s like totes fire, with all the festive feels, for reals. Slay bells!”

Jennifer Saunders added: "I am delighted to be joining the fabulous Amandaland gang for a Christmas special. Playing Joanna’s on-screen sister is guaranteed to be a laugh – who doesn’t love a family reunion SoHa style!"

Co-writers and creators Holly Walsh and Laurence Rickard said: "It’s an absolute joy to be back in SoHa (South Harlesden) again. After six months of researching Brent Council’s fly tipping rules, attempting Anne’s Irish accent, and writing the odd bit of script, we’re thrilled to have Jennifer Saunders join our gang for this very special episode."

When is the Amandland Christmas special on?

The Amandaland Christmas Special will air on Christmas Day at 9:15pm on BBC One and iPlayer. In the meantime, you can catch up on Amandaland series one on BBC iPlayer, as well as all three series of Motherland.

Amandaland Christmas special trailer

The Amandaland Christmas trailer is here! Amanda and the gang are heading to Aunt Joan's for the festivities. From regifting to vegan teenagers, there are plenty of laughs and relatable moments that every family will enjoy.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her three dogs.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Fans of Motherland spin-off Amandaland finally have a date to mark in their diaries, with the BBC confirming when the hit comedy will return for its second series.

The comedy, starring Lucy Punch, Philippa Dunne and Joanna Lumley, will return to BBC One and iPlayer on the 6th May, continuing Amanda’s chaotic life in SoHa (South Harlesden).

Season 2 picks up with Amanda still navigating the challenges of modern parenting, teenage drama, suburban status anxiety and a judgmental mother, as she attempts to keep her world from spiralling out of control.

We'll also see the return of Philippa Dunne, Joanna Lumley as Felicity and Samuel Anderson as Mal.

The first series proved a strong ratings success for the broadcaster, cementing the spin-off as one of its most popular recent comedy launches.

Check out the trailer for Amandaland season 2 here:

Season 2 of Amandaland is coming to BBC One and iPlayer on Wednesday 6th May 2026.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

We can't wait to catch-up with SoHa's most cringeworthy influencer Amanda Hughes, in Amandaland season 2 coming very soon to our screens.

The new series sees Amanda still 'slumming it' in South Harlesden and heavily promoting her lifestyle brand Senuous, while also working at her 'co-lab' at Kitchen’s Bathrooms and Kitchens.

Amanda (played by Lucy Punch) has now resigned her self to remain living in the area and is thrilled at the opening of a new coffee shop nearby, as she feels it represents a step towards gentrification!

She even finds a very desirable and grand house that piques her interest. Desperate to make it hers, she goes to her mother for help—only to realise that Felicity’s (played by Joanna Lumley) financial support comes with strings attached. Though her mum has always seemed strong, the years are beginning to show, and it may no longer be wise for her to live on her own.

There's still sparks of a possible romance with fellow divorcee and basement neighbour Mal (Samuel Anderson). This series we get introduced to Mal's no-nonsense ex, Abs (played by Harriet Webb), who Amanda struggles to bond with.

And, of course, Anne is still Amanda’s devoted and ever-patient best friend as they navigate the ups and downs of raising teenagers—through exams, first loves, and ultimately, the school prom in the season finale.

As well as many of the familiar Amandaland faces, there's also some new characters in this series including one of favourite Call The Midwife actresses Pam Ferris! Here's all the Amandaland season two cast details you need to know...

Amandaland series 2 cast list

• Lucy Punch as Amanda

• Joanna Lumley as Felicity

• Philippa Dunne as Anne

• Samuel Anderson as Mal

• Siobhán McSweeney as Della

• Rochenda Sandall as Fi

• Jack Veal as Darius

• Miley Locke as Georgie

• Ekow Quartey as JJ

• Anya McKenna-Bruce as Morten

• Archie Smith as Ned

• Liz Sutherland-Lim as Joy

• Harriet Webb as Abs

• Pam Ferris as Amanda's frail neighbour

Lucy Punch plays Amanda

Amanda was originally one of the main characters in the hugely popular BBC comedy Motherland. Her posh, privileged and self-inflated view of herself made for comedy gold. Since her spin-off series Amanda's character has softened ever-so slightly.

"Her change in circumstances has made her realise, finally, that she’s no better than anyone else, says actress Lucy Punch talking about the new series. "In Motherland, her superiority was her ugliest trait. Nevertheless, her giant ego and status anxiety remains, so she still wants everyone to think she’s the best!"

Lucy Punch (48), was raised in London and joined the National Youth Theatre in her late teens before enrolling at University College London to study History. While there, she began auditioning for television roles and ultimately left her studies to focus on acting full time.

She credits much of her early development to working on the short-lived series Let Them Eat Cake (1999) alongside Jennifer Saunders and Dawn French. Although she has since taken on a range of dramatic roles in film and television, it is her flair for comedy that has truly set her apart.

She has carved out a niche for herself playing the Ugly Sister no fewer than four times—Hattie in Ella Enchanted (2004), Regan in Cinderella (2000), Fenola Gay in Fairy Tales (2008), and Lucinda in Into the Woods—and, fortunately, she embraces it wholeheartedly. She once quipped, “When I was 11, I had an Ugly Sister–themed birthday party. My idea entirely. Most girls want to be a fairy or a princess, but there I were with beauty spots, fur, and fluorescent pink kiss-curls.” When she told her mother about Into the Woods, the response was, “Oh darling, not again.”

Among Lucy’s notable television roles are Beatrice in Ben and Kate (2012–2013), Esmé Squalor in the Neil Patrick Harris–led A Series of Unfortunate Events (2018–2019), and Lili Park-Hoffsteader in The Audacity (2026).

On the big screen, she has appeared as Melanie in Are You Ready for Love? (2006), Eve Draper in Hot Fuzz (2007), Verity Thwaites in St Trinian’s (2007), Amy Squirrel in Bad Teacher (2011), Sylvia Plath in How to Build a Girl (2019), and Cynthia Sterling in Jingle Bell Heist (2025).

Joanna Lumley plays Felicity

Amanda’s gin-loving mother, Felicity, is firmly convinced that money can fix just about anything—and, to be fair, she’s often proved right. Like her daughter, she does have her flaws, but you can't help but love her character in spite of them.

A bona fide national treasure, Dame Joanna Lumley began her career as a model before moving into acting, with early film appearances including On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969)—yes, she was a Bond girl—alongside roles in Trail of the Pink Panther (1982) and Shirley Valentine (1989). In more recent years, she has appeared as Aunt Emma in The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), Mary Rawlinson in Me Before You (2016), and Felicity Fanshaw in Paddington 2 (2017).

When it comes to television, Joanna is just as accomplished. She is, of course, best known for her BAFTA Award–winning role as Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous (1992–1996, 2001–2004, 2011–2012), but audiences may also remember her from Coronation Street (1973), The New Avengers (1976–1977), Sapphire & Steel (1979–1982), Class Act (1994–1995), Up in Town (2002), Sensitive Skin (2005–2007), Harlan Coben's Fool Me Once (2024), The Room in the Tower (2025), and Wednesday (2025–present).

Philippa Dunne plays Anne

Anne is like Amanda's loyal dog, it doesn't matter how badly she treats her, she always ends up being at her beck and call. Despite this, Anne has shown she's become more assertive in Amadaland then her character ever was in Motherland as actress Philippa Dunne explains:
"She's definitely more self-assured and settled into her life now, it's like she's hit her groove since going back to work and she's really enjoying having Amanda back in her life too."

In addition to her acting career, Philippa Dunne is an accomplished comedy writer. While she is best known for playing Anne Flynn in Motherland (2016–2022) and Amandaland, viewers may also recognise her from The Walshes (2014), Derry Girls (2019–2022), This Is Going to Hurt (2022), and Bodies (2023).

Samuel Anderson plays Mal

Mal and Amanda’s long-suppressed romance carries on in the second series of Amandaland, but in reality there’s far more spark between Mal and his ex-partner’s new husband—confusingly—JJ (Ekow Quartey), as the two strike up an unexpected bromance.

Samuel Anderson’s recent turn as the American Aidan in The Walsh Sisters (2025) surprised many fans, who have long associated him with a string of memorable British roles. These include Ross Kirk in Emmerdale (2007–2009), Fingers in Gavin & Stacey (2007, 2009, 2024), DC Vince Grady in DCI Banks (2011–2016), Danny Pink in Doctor Who (2014), Daniel Wilson in Trollied (2014–2017), Patrick in Witless (2016–2018), DC Paul Wilkie in Landscapers (2021), and Matt Blake in Shetland (2025).

Siobhán McSweeney plays Della

Straight-talking Nella is Fi’s (Rochenda Sandall) perpetually exasperated wife. Juggling Fi’s reliance on her with the pressures of a demanding career as a chef, she’s almost always on edge—and rarely makes any effort to hide it.

Siobhán McSweeney is best known for her BAFTA Award–winning performance as Sister Michael in Derry Girls (2018–2022), though viewers may also recognise the Irish actress from The Fall (2013–2014), No Offence (2015), Redemption (2022), Extraordinary (2023–2024), and Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue (2025).

In addition to acting, Siobhán works as a television presenter, hosting The Great Pottery Throw Down (2021–present) and the latest instalment of The Traitors Ireland (2025–present).

Rochenda Sandall plays Fi

Fi is a devoted mum, a loyal friend and a loving wife to Nella (Siobhán McSweeney) — but she should definitely not be left to her devices!

Since making her screen debut in an episode of Doctors in 2013, Rochenda Sandall has gone on to appear in Love, Lies and Records (2017), Line of Duty (2019), Criminal: UK (2019–2020), Doctor Who (2021), the first series of Hijack (2023), The Rig (2023–2025), and the third series of The Teacher (2026). Later this year, she is also set to appear as Melissa Morris in the Gemma Arterton–led Secret Service.

Rochenda is in a relationship with fellow actor Mark Stanley—whose recent credits include Under Salt Marsh and Adolescence. The pair first met while studying at East 15 Acting School in London, reportedly beginning their relationship in 2008, and have since worked together on projects including Criminal: UK and Love, Lies and Records.

Harriet Webb plays Abs

A new addition to the cast this series, Abs is Mal’s ex-partner, the wife of JJ (Ekow Quartey) and mother to Ned. Her no-nonsense attitude and blunt honesty quickly put her at odds with Amanda, landing her firmly on the wrong side of their fraught dynamic.

Comedy actress Harriet Webb is best known for playing Cousin Shannon in Big Boys (2022–2025) and Kirsty in Mr. Bigstuff (2024–present). She has also appeared in White Gold (2017–2019), Scarborough (2019), Sandylands (2020–2021), The Tower (2021–2024), and Wreck (2022–present).

Pam Ferris plays Amanda's elderly neighbour

We don't know very much about Pam's character other than she's Amanda's frail neighbour, who has an extremely desirable house that Amanda has set her sights on. We're sure that there's bound to be comedy gold between these two though.

Pam Ferris famously played Sister Evangelina in Call The Midwife (2012), but is also best known for her role as Ma in The Darling Buds of May (1991), Cath in Gavin & Stacey (2009) and as Mrs Trunchbull in the film Matilda (1996).

When and and where can I watch Amandaland season 2?

Amandaland season two will air on BBC One on Wednesday 4th May 2026 at 9pm and be available to stream on the BBC iPlayer. All episodes will available as a box set from that date too, so you can watch the whole series at your leisure!

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

We may have missed Kevin and Liz in Amandaland, but Motherland fans are in for a treat because the BBC has just released the first look at its brand-new comedy Ann Droid, and it looks like chaos in the best possible way.

The upcoming six-part series sees Diane Morgan (Mandy, Cunk, Motherland) stepping into a very different role, alongside Motherland favourite Paul Ready and acting royalty Sue Johnston (The Royale Family, Brookside).

Set in a world where artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday life, Ann Droid explores what happens when tech designed to help… doesn’t quite get it right.

At the centre of the story is Sue (Sue Johnston), who is still adjusting to life after losing her husband, while her son Michael (Paul Ready) is once again moving out to “fix his marriage”.

In an effort to help her live independently, Michael turns up with a second-hand care robot called Linda (Diane Morgan).

She’s designed to support older people, monitor their health, and take pressure off overstretched services like the NHS, but in reality, she’s anything but reassuring.

Overly literal, socially awkward and completely clueless when it comes to human behaviour, Linda quickly becomes more of a disruption than a comfort.

Aside from playing Linda, Diane Morgan - recently a contestant on the second series of Last One Laughing - has written the series alongside comedian Sarah Kendall (Frayed), with Joe Roberts (The Power of Parker) directing.

The series is produced by Boffola Pictures and Witchcraft Industries for BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Ann Droid will arrive later this summer on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

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The Strictly Come Dancing 2026 professional line-up has officially landed, and it’s bringing back plenty of familiar faces, a few surprises, and all the sparkle fans expect from the BBC favourite.

As the show gears up for its 24th series this autumn, a star-studded roster of returning professionals has been confirmed, alongside brand new dancers set to join the famous ballroom floor.

Who are the Strictly professionals?

Among those returning are fan favourites Dianne Buswell, Amy Dowden, Katya Jones, Neil Jones and Nikita Kuzmin, all set to bring their signature energy back to the dance floor.

They’ll be joined once again by Johannes Radebe, Jowita Przystał, Nancy Xu, Kai Widdrington and Aljaž Škorjanec, ensuring plenty of experience and show-stopping routines when the competition begins.

Also returning are Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Vito Coppola, Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon, continuing their place in the ever-evolving Strictly family.

And there’s more excitement still to come, with brand new professional dancers confirmed to be joining the show, though their identities are being kept under wraps for now.

The confirmation comes after several long-serving professionals left the series, marking one of the biggest cast shifts in recent years. But with fresh faces on the way, the ballroom is still very much in motion.

Who are the Strictly Come Dancing judges?

The Strictly judging panel remains unchanged, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke all back to deliver their scores, critiques and trademark reactions each week.

And of course, the iconic Strictly traditions are returning too, from Movies Week and Halloween Week to Musicals and Icons Week, plus the high-pressure Instant Dance challenge that keeps everyone on their toes.

The most magical stop of all also makes its comeback: Blackpool’s legendary Tower Ballroom, where the competition always feels just that bit more special.

Who are the new Strictly Come Dancing presenters?

While the professional dancers are now confirmed, fans are still waiting to find out who will replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, after the long-time presenting duo announced their departure.

The BBC says their replacements will be revealed in due course – but that hasn’t stopped the rumour mill, with names like Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark and Alex Jones already being tipped as the new Strictly presenters by fans.

There are also whispers that spin-off show It Takes Two could be getting a shake-up, possibly returning in a podcast-style format for a more behind-the-scenes feel.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

To mark milestone 100th edition of Yours Retro, we unveil Amazing Silver Screen Secrets – 100 of the most surprising, strange and downright fascinating facts from the Golden Age of cinema and beyond. Inside this 10-page special you can discover:

• Hollywood’s youngest director

• The only X-rated Best Picture Oscar winner

• The film with the most recorded mistakes

• Joan Crawford’s on set diva demands

• Spencer Tracy’s Oscar gaff

• The actors who had the longest screen kiss

• Pierce Brosnan’s secret skill

• The film with the longest run time

• Which star received the most fan mail

• and much, much more…

Also in this issue we explore devastating betrayal and loss that led Hollywood’s eternal girl-next-door Doris Day to walk away from fame. We revisit Forbidden Planet 70 years on to explore how the groundbreaking film changed sci-fi forever. Plus, we uncover what prompted Walt Disney to take the leap into live action films and why Tab Hunter felt he had keep his love a secret.

For classic TV fans we catch up with the cast of M*A*S*H to find out what they did next, salute the anarchic brilliance of Kenny Everett and revisit an early TV role that David Jason would rather we forget. Plus, we honour some unforgettable icons: William Powell and Myrna Loy’s sparkling chemistry in The Thin Man, Gloria Grahame’s amazing versatility, Virginia McKenna’s lasting legacy, Don Ameche’s triumphant comeback – and the bittersweet love story of Burt Reynolds and Sally Field.

Buy your copy today in all good newsagents!

Subscribe to Yours Retro magazine here

Reminisce on the life, legacy and lasting influence in Marilyn: A Celebration.

One hundred years ago, Norma Jeane Mortenson was born. The world would come to know her as Marilyn Monroe - a global symbol of beauty, glamour and timeless Hollywood stardom. More than 60 years after her death, there are few people who wouldn’t instantly recognise the iconic blonde bombshell.

Now, Marilyn: A Celebration pays tribute to the life, work and enduring influence of one of the most famous women in history.

Humble beginnings to global stardom

Marilyn’s story is one of extraordinary transformation. Born into instability and raised in and out of foster homes, her early life was marked by hardship. Yet from these humble beginnings, she rose to become the ultimate Hollywood star.

This beautifully presented bookazine explores how Norma Jeane became Marilyn Monroe - tracing the childhood experiences that shaped her personality, her ambition, and her lifelong search for belonging.

Behind the scenes of Hollywood’s golden era

Packed with fascinating behind‑the‑scenes insights from all her films, Marilyn: A Celebration offers a deeper look at her remarkable screen career.

From sparkling comedies to dramatic performances, the bookazine examines:

✅ The making of her most beloved films

✅ Her dedication to mastering her craft

✅ The pressures of fame within the Hollywood studio system

✅ The public image versus the private woman

Discover a more complex, intelligent and driven performer behind the glamorous façade.

The bookazine explores the friendships, romances and personal struggles that shaped her journey, revealing the vulnerability behind the icon.

Her tragic death at just 36 years old in 1962 shocked the world and cemented her status as an eternal legend. Yet her influence has never faded.

A visual celebration of Marilyn Monroe

Featuring stunning and rarely seen photography, this bookazine captures the many sides of this cultural icon - from radiant starlet to thoughtful actress, from fashion muse to enduring symbol of femininity.

Her image continues to inspire designers, filmmakers, artists and fans around the globe. More than a century after her birth, Marilyn Monroe remains one of the most recognisable and beloved figures in popular culture.

Marilyn: A Celebration is a must‑have collector’s edition for fans of classic Hollywood, film history and timeless style. Beautifully presented and richly illustrated, it honours the life, career and lasting impact of a woman whose story still captivates the world.

Purchase your sought-after copy today!

Click here to buy yours for just £12.49 including P&P.

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Warning: This article contains spoilers for Channel 5's Number One Fan

One of Channel 5's new psychological thrillers, Number One Fan, has had us gripped to our screens. Set in the world of daytime television, following presenter Lucy Logan as her life begins to unravel after a chance encounter with a fan who becomes far too involved. Jill Halfpenny leads the cast as Lucy, alongside Sally Lindsay as Donna, whose seemingly harmless admiration soon turns into something much more unsettling...

As the series unfolds, secrets from Lucy’s past begin to surface, with Donna determined to hold her accountable for a tragedy linked to a controversial TV show. By the time the story reaches its final episode, the stakes are higher than ever, and the ending leaves several characters facing the consequences of decisions that can’t be undone.

Here’s how Number One Fan plays out.

What motivated Donna’s revenge?

Donna’s actions stem from the death of her brother Ben, who appeared on a confrontational television programme hosted by Stewart Jones.

Ben was trying to rebuild his life, but his appearance on the show ends in humiliation and emotional distress.

Afterwards, his life takes a tragic turn, and Donna becomes convinced that both Stewart and Lucy are responsible in different ways for what happened.

That belief drives her actions from that point onwards.

What happens to Lucy in the finale?

In the final episode, Lucy is reported missing, but it is later revealed she has been taken by Donna and kept hidden away.

Rather than acting impulsively, Donna carefully controls the situation, staging events to mislead those searching for her while keeping Lucy completely isolated.

Lucy is forced to confront her past mistakes while under Donna’s control, with no clear way out.

How is Stewart Jones brought down?

Donna then turns her attention to Stewart Jones, carefully setting up a situation that leads to his arrest.

Through manipulation and staged circumstances, Stewart is framed for serious crimes he did not commit.

Despite questions surrounding the evidence, he is convicted and sent to prison.

Only Donna and Lucy know how the situation was truly engineered.

What happens to Lucy after the events?

Some time later, Lucy returns to television in an attempt to rebuild her career and public image.

However, her situation remains unstable. Donna continues to stay close to her professional life, ensuring Lucy is never fully free from her influence.

As further personal leverage emerges, Lucy finds herself increasingly trapped in a position she cannot easily escape.

How does Number One Fan end?

By the end of Number One Fan, no one escapes the consequences of what has unfolded.

Donna achieves her revenge but maintains control through secrecy and leverage rather than resolution.

Lucy survives but remains bound to Donna through the shared truth of what happened.

Stewart’s imprisonment leaves lingering doubts, reinforcing the morally complex ending.

Will there be a second series of Number One Fan?

Channel 5 has not confirmed a second series. The story appears designed as a standalone drama with a complete narrative arc.

However, the ending leaves room for continuation, particularly around Lucy’s ongoing situation and whether the truth could ever fully come out.

Number One Fan airs on consecutive nights from 9pm on Channel 5. Alternatively, you can stream all episodes online now.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.[]{href="https://www.yours.co.uk/wellbeing/health/natural-remedies-for-hayfever/" }

Dust off your vinyl and warm up those vocal cords — because Name That Tune is making a triumphant return to ITV, and it’s bringing a very familiar face with it.

Yes, Alison Hammond is set to host the revived version of the much-loved music quiz, which first hit UK screens 50 years ago.

The feel-good favourite will air on ITV1 and ITVX, with contestants going head-to-head in a series of fast-paced rounds designed to test just one thing: can you name that tune?

Expect huge hits, big singalong moments and plenty of drama as players battle it out to prove their music knowledge. From timeless classics to modern chart-toppers, the show promises a playlist that spans the generations — meaning viewers at home can join in too.

A blast from the past

For those who remember it the first time round, Name That Tune originally aired in 1976 as part of the variety show Wednesday at Eight (later renamed London Night Out). It followed on from the earlier musical quiz Spot That Tune and was based on a popular US format that actually began life on radio.

Over the years, the show has been fronted by the likes of Tom O’Connor, Lionel Blair and Jools Holland, who hosted a rebooted 1990s version on Channel 5.

Now, it’s Alison’s turn to take the mic.

And if anyone can bring the energy, it’s her.

A full-circle moment for Alison

The Great British Bake Off star has made no secret of her love for the original series.

“As a massive music lover, my biggest challenge as a host will be trying not to grab the mic and start singing along,” she joked, admitting it will take “serious self-control” when her favourite songs come on.

Alison described landing the role as a “real full-circle moment,” adding that she can’t wait to see who really knows their music when filming begins.

She’ll also be joined by the show’s live band, who’ll perform some of the biggest songs in their own “electric” style — promising a bigger, louder and more feel-good revival than ever before.

A family show for a new generation

ITV’s Director of Entertainment, Reality & Daytime, Katie Rawcliffe, said the network is thrilled to bring the iconic format back to British audiences.

She described it as a “fun family series” that not only challenges contestants in the studio but also allows viewers to play along at home.

With music that spans decades and Alison Hammond at the helm, this could well be the ultimate Saturday night singalong.

The only question is… could you name that tune?

How can I apply for Name That Tune?

TV is now officially casting for Series 1 of Name That Tune, and applications are open.

Successful applicants will be invited to take part in an online audition, with casting taking place throughout April, May and June 2026.

Application closing date: 23:59 on Friday 5 June 2026
Auditions: Online, scheduled across April–June 2026
Age requirement: You must be 18 years or over to apply

If you think you’ve got what it takes to step up to the mic and take on the ultimate music challenge, you can submit your application here now.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

Singer Dolly Parton has shared a heartfelt update with fans, revealing that ongoing health concerns mean she’ll no longer be taking to the Las Vegas stage this September.

The 80-year-old country legend had originally planned a glittering six-show residency at Caesar’s Palace last December, before moving the dates to September 2026. Now, in a candid Instagram video, Dolly has confirmed that she needs a little more time to get back to her rhinestone best.

And in true Dolly fashion, she delivered the news with warmth, honesty and just a dash of humour.

“I’m responding really well to meds and treatments,” she reassured fans, adding that she’s “improving every day.” However, she admitted it will take a while before she’s back to “stage-performance level.”

The singer joked that her medication has been leaving her feeling “swimmy-headed” — and as she quite rightly pointed out, being dizzy while carrying banjos and guitars in five-inch heels isn’t exactly ideal.

Still, Dolly isn’t letting Dolly Parton health issues dim her sparkle. “Just think of me as an old classic car,” she smiled. “That once restored, can be better than ever.”

Still busy as ever

Although fans won’t see her in Vegas this autumn, Dolly made it clear she’s far from slowing down. She’s still filming videos, popping “up and down to Dollywood now and then,” and working on a string of exciting projects.

Top of the list? Opening her much-anticipated museum and hotel in Nashville later this year, alongside continuing work on her Broadway musical. It’s hardly what most of us would call “taking it easy.”

Importantly, she also reassured everyone that she’s in good hands medically. “I have great doctors and I’m doing really well,” she said. “They assure me that everything I have is treatable so I’m going with that.”

She captioned the video with a heartfelt thank you to her loyal fans: “I’ve still got some healing to do, but I am on my way! See you soon.”

A challenging year

The past year hasn’t been without its difficulties. Last October, Dolly addressed rumours that her health was worsening, firmly putting speculation to rest. However, she did have to withdraw from November’s Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Governors Awards, where she had been due to receive the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.

Dolly has previously spoken about suffering from kidney stones — something she referenced again in her latest update.

On a deeply personal note, she is also navigating life after the loss of her beloved husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Thomas Dean, who passed away last year aged 82.

Despite everything, Dolly continues to show the resilience that’s defined her decades-long career. She even made a public appearance in March this year, delivering a keynote speech at her Dollywood theme park — proving that when she does step out, she still commands the room.

For now, fans will have to wait a little longer for those Vegas lights to shine on her again. But if there’s one thing we know about Dolly Parton health issues, it’s that she faces them with grace, grit and a wink.

And if her “classic car” analogy is anything to go by, we’ve every reason to believe she’ll be back on stage — better than ever.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

Channel 5 has confirmed when its new thriller Number One Fan will arrive on screen, with Jill Halfpenny and Sally Lindsay leading the cast.

The four-part drama will begin on Monday 4th May, airing across four consecutive nights on Channel 5.

Viewers will also be able to stream the series online as it airs, following the channel’s usual release pattern for its drama slate.

The first-look trailer for the drama has also been released, giving viewers a glimpse at the tense dynamic between a TV presenter and her obsessive fan.

Set against the backdrop of a daytime TV show, the story centres on presenter Lucy Logan (Jill Halfpenny), a well-known broadcaster whose life is shaken after a chance encounter with an apparent fan who first appears harmless, but quickly becomes far more unsettling.

Sally Lindsay plays Donna, who initially comes across as supportive and enthusiastic, but gradually starts to cross boundaries and insert herself deeper into Lucy’s life.

As tensions build, cracks begin to appear in Lucy’s carefully managed public image, with hints that Donna may know more about her than she lets on.

The series has already been teased in a trailer that shows their relationship moving from admiration to suspicion, with a growing sense of unease between the two women.

Number One Fan begins on 4 May on Channel 5 and will also be available to stream online.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Looking for your next binge-watch? Click here to keep our latest TV recommendations at the top of your Google feed.

A “suspenseful” new Channel 5 thriller led by EastEnders star Jill Halfpenny and Coronation Street icon Sally Lindsay is set to hit screens this Bank Holiday Monday, and its leading star has warned viewers to expect the unexpected.

Number One Fan sees Jill Halfpenny take on the role of daytime TV presenter Lucy Logan, whose life begins to spiral after a chance encounter with an obsessive admirer.

Meanwhile, Sally Lindsay plays Donna, a seemingly devoted fan whose behaviour quickly becomes more unsettling as she “worms her way” into Lucy’s world.

Billed as a gripping thriller where fame hides dangerous secrets, the four-part Channel 5 series is set in the world of daytime television and explores how quickly admiration can turn into obsession.

With not long to go until it airs, Jill Halfpenny has been teasing what viewers can expect and says the drama is full of surprises.

“It’s a real page turner,” she said. “And I think you very much jump between whose side you’re on.

“The thing that you expect is going to happen doesn’t happen. Something else happens that really surprises you and takes you somewhere else.”

A recently released trailer shows Donna telling Lucy: “I’m your number one fan,” after their first meeting before gradually inserting herself into the presenter’s life.

Tension escalates as Lucy begins to realise something isn’t right, with scenes showing her growing fear as she admits: “It has to stop… she seems to be everywhere I go.”

Viewers have already reacted strongly to the trailer, with many saying they “can’t wait” for the series to air this Bank Holiday.

One fan wrote on social media: "I definitely need to see this, @jillhalfpenny. You’re a fantastic actor and I love your work. So looking forward to watching it — the trailer has me hooked."

Another added: “A great cast, and it’s good to see you and Sally Lindsay in the same drama.”

Speaking about the casting, Clapperboard Studios MD Mike Benson said it was a rare opportunity to bring the two actors together on screen.

“We’ve worked with both Jill and Sally before, but never in the same show,” he said. “Seeing them both together - in two very surprising roles - is something we know viewers will be every bit as excited about as we are.”

Number One Fan airs on Channel 5 at 9pm on Monday 4th May 2026.

Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.

Monarch of the Glen is heading back to our screens — but this time, there’s a major twist.

The much-loved Scottish drama, which last aired on the BBC in 2005, is being rebooted as a Channel 5 drama with a fresh reimagining — and the central role will now be a woman.

In the original series, Alastair McKenzie played Archie MacDonald, the reluctant laird trying to restore his crumbling Highland estate. But in the new version, the lead character will be high-flying London lawyer Isla Campbell, who finds herself unexpectedly pulled back to her family’s ancestral home.

Channel 5 has yet to confirm casting, but sources say the revival will feature an entirely new line-up.

The original Monarch of the Glen began in 2000 and quickly became a Sunday night favourite, drawing audiences of more than 8 million at its peak. For five series, viewers followed Archie as he attempted to revive the Glenbogle estate. The final two series shifted focus to new laird Paul Bowman, played by Lloyd Owen.

Now, the story is being turned on its head.

In the reboot, Isla returns to the Highlands for her estranged father’s funeral, expecting only a brief stay. Instead, she discovers she has inherited a £1 million debt, a bank threatening to seize the estate, and a brother determined not to let their family home slip away.

Forced under the same roof for the first time in years, the siblings must find a way to save the struggling estate before time runs out.

The six-part series will be produced by Ecosse Films — the team behind the original show — with writer Jeremy Brock at the helm. Brock’s previous work includes Amazon Prime’s A Very Royal Scandal, based on Prince Andrew’s Newsnight interview.

Speaking about the revival, he said: “When I was offered the chance to re-imagine Monarch of the Glen, I leapt at it.

“I’m hugely excited by the opportunity to tell a story of family life and finding your place in our hectic world – one that celebrates the warmth, humour and eccentricities of a special community, with both optimism and authenticity.

“Hope and joy are a currency in short supply right now, and the Highlands – one of the most magical places on Earth – felt like exactly the right home for them.”

The reboot follows a growing trend of classic series reinventing themselves with gender-swapped leads — and Channel 5 will be hoping this Highland homecoming proves just as popular the second time around.

Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. Claire is extremely passionate about all things TV related, with her favourite shows including Traitors, Strictly and The Great British Bake Off.