
Big Brother's Will Best drops wedding bombshell after engagement to stylist
Hits Radio DJ and Celebrity Big Brother co-host Will Best is chatty and multitasking like a pro when new catches up with him, walking his dog Sandwich in the park as we talk. Will, 40, has become known in recent years as one of the faces of ITV 's revived Big Brother, alongside his old pal AJ Odudu.
The Londoner, who got engaged to his stylist girlfriend Tobi Rose last year after more than a decade together, is also backing a Holiday Inn Express campaign to provide gig-goers with care packages for the day after the night before. Here, he talks to OK! about his friendship with AJ, gives his take on Chris Hughes and JoJo Siwa as their romance hots up, and reveals how he's mellowed over time…
Hi Will! How are things with you?
Great. I'm enjoying my weekends. I do Hits Radio [breakfast show] with Fleur East and the comedian James Barr – I used to do the weekend show but now, doing the daily show, I have my weekends back. It's lovely to have that Friday feeling.
Are the early morning starts difficult?
I get up at 5am, so it could be worse. I still live my life, but I've taken to asking mates to meet for dinner at 6.30pm. I have such a laugh on the show, it doesn't feel like work. We had Will Smith in the studio the other day. I ended up rapping at him – he kept repeating the word 'Tragic' while I did. It might have been a compliment!
Co-hosting Celebrity Big Brother must be quite the ride…
It doesn't quite feel real. The last series had everything – drama, controversy… Me and AJ had to throw Mickey Rourke into the house, then out when he got the boot a week later. That's some nice symmetry.
Name one of your favourite housemates?
Louis Walsh. He had that brilliant mix of knowing how to give everything in a reality format while also not knowing what the hell was going on at any given moment. Other housemates later told me he'd have a big argument, then go, 'Wow, that was great TV.' He thought he was producing it!
Everyone's talking about JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes. What do you make of their relationship?
When their relationship was unfolding in CBB, I was thinking, 'OK, it's obviously platonic.' But the relationship they've since developed is beautiful – they seem to have clearly found a soulmate in each other.
What about AJ? She's engaged now…
Yeah, I'm so happy for her. She's living her best life.
You were already friends before hosting Big Brother, weren't you?
We were – that's why we were so lucky to get the hosting gig together. We're both massive Big Brother fans, so we get to chat about it on the telly. You couldn't ask for a better friend than AJ. She gives great advice, she's super loyal and such a laugh.
And you're good friends with Maya Jama too, aren't you?
I am, although she's the busiest person in Britain so I don't see her as often as I'd like. I've been watching Love Island. My fiancée loves it too – so much drama. Maya and I used to work together on so many things. She and AJ are also super-close. The three of us did the show Release The Hounds in Lithuania years ago. It was terrifying. Poor old Maya was terrible at outrunning those dogs – she totally sacrificed herself for charity. What a trouper.
You are also engaged. Do you have any plans to tie the knot?
It sounds like such a cliché, but we're both so busy the thought of organising a wedding just seems… I can't imagine ever having the time. But we'll get round to it, for sure.
You've had an interesting career so far meeting a variety of celebs – who would you say stands out?
So many. My first big interview was with Britney Spears. I once went fishing with Dappy from N-Dubz at this carp lake in Oxfordshire, full of posh people standing around in tweeds. It's all about being quiet, not to scare the carp away. Dappy arrives and starts shouting, 'No, mate – wrong place. Look at these idiots!'' He took us to a deserted corner of the lake, said, 'This is where they are,' and hauled out three fish in five minutes. The professional carp-fishers were aghast.
Tell us about Fresh Or Fried, the campaign with Holiday Inn Express that you're involved in…
Music and gigging has always been a huge part of my life and this summer feels epic for upcoming bands and big stars. So Holiday Inn has created care packages for gig-goers which are a lifesaver, tailored to the two types of gig-goers. You're either someone like me, who prioritises feeling fresh – you go to gigs but get proper sleep, feel rested, have a fresh breakfast… or you go more hell for leather and worry about how you're feeling the next day – probably a bit fried. They have a fresh package with lavender oil, earplugs, mouth tape to help you into a deep sleep. In the fried package it's all about the rehydration salts and under-eye patches.
Do you think you have mellowed as you've matured?
Well, because I have to get up at stupid o'clock for my radio show, I'll go to gigs and have a dance, but may leave before the encore. But I'm not alone – apparently 39% of Gen Z will leave before the encore. In a way, I am actually young and hip.
You're 40 now – are we allowed to talk about this?
You can, but I don't think anyone will believe you. Look, I'm definitely more sensible as I've got older. I've developed a more caring relationship with Tomorrow Will. I used to hate that guy and he never got a moment's thought. Until pretty recently, I'd enjoy the encore, then the after-party. I'd treat late nights like a sport and want to be as match-fit as possible. But, fear not, Wild Will still comes out occasionally…

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

Rhyl Journal
13 minutes ago
- Rhyl Journal
Coronation Street star Sally Ann Matthews axed from ITV soap
Matthews has been a Corrie regular for the past 10 years, playing the role of Jenny Connor. She first appeared on the ITV soap (as Jenny Connor) back in 1986. Matthews departed the show in 1991, and apart from a brief appearance in 1993, she returned to cobbles in 2015. However, Matthews is now set for her second departure from Coronation Street, revealing on Friday (August 1) that she will be leaving the ITV soap after "doing an extra ten years". In a post on Instagram, she said: "I was supposed to stay for five months but ended up doing an extra ten years because I loved it so much! "It's time though to play those parts I always hoped I would when I'd 'grown up.' "Thanks Trafford Wharf Rd for the memories and endless laughter." A post shared by Sally Ann Matthews (@sallyannmatthews) Fellow TV stars and fans of the show took to social media following the news to share just how "wonderful" Matthews had been on Coronation Street and how much she would be missed. Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies, commenting on Matthews' Instagram post, said: "You've been absolutely wonderful!" While former Coronation Street and Casualty actress Melanie Hill commented: "Onwards Sal. Corrie will miss you." RECOMMENDED READING: 'Useless' Coronation Street character set for return as fans cry 'not again' Coronation Street lines up dramatic exit for character amid 'heartache' Coronation Street legend 'nearly quit' after ITV bosses left him 'gutted' One fan, posting on X (formerly Twitter), wrote: "Losing Sally Ann Matthews and Sue Devaney is going to hit #Corrie HARD given the lack of classic Corrie characters in that demographic. Jenny and Debbie ARE Corrie. "How much left is there that we can call true Corrie. Bad omens, think there's a genuine crisis there." Another added: "Even though I'm not watching corrie atm sally ann matthews leaving is going to be a massive loss for the show."


BBC News
14 minutes ago
- BBC News
Richard Madeley lookalike contest flyers baffle Stockport locals
The mystery behind a series of flyers advertising a Richard Madeley lookalike contest has caused a stir across a Greater Manchester borough. Hand-printed posters about the competition have been placed across Stockport and become the subject of speculation across social media, with prizes on offer for the top three lookalikes to the daytime TV presenter and former Manchester resident. It will take place at 11:30 BST on 17 August in Stockport's Alexandra Park, according to the flyers spotted in the same park on Saturday. Nicci Owen, who owns a coffee kiosk in the park, said the flyers had been "dotted across notice boards" but then mysteriously disappeared. She told BBC Radio Manchester: "No one saw who put them up but, obviously as soon as anyone saw it they were just so excited. But, is it real?"Madeley, from Essex, presented ITV's This Morning alongside his now-wife Judy Finnigan before the couple went on to host Richard & Judy from 2001 to now occasionally presents on ITV's breakfast programme Good Morning Britain. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.


Daily Mirror
3 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Must-see TV this week: Celebrity SAS, The Fortune Hotel and David Attenborough series
Fan-favourite shows are back on screens this week with new seasons of Celebrity SAS and The Fortune Hotel. And there are more shows to last through the week. Get the lowdown. Another week of TV is set to keep fans on the edge of their seats, with two beloved series making their comebacks on the box. After a successful first run, Stephen Mangan helms the second season of The Fortune Hotel on ITV, with another batch of UK contestants and a fresh set of cases to swap around. Over on Channel 4, a handful of beloved household names push themselves out of their comfort zones in a new series of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, as they encounter gruelling challenges. BBC One also delivers its fair share of emotions with a new show delving deep into the animal world. Parenthood is narrated by natural historian and national treasure David Attenborough. Meanwhile, streaming platforms have their own gripping dramas and documentaries to offer. Here's everything you need to know about this week's TV. The Count of Monte Cristo Saturday, 9pm, U&Drama Sam Claflin stars as Edmond Dantes in this new adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo, a French classic by Alexandre Dumas. Falsely accused of treason and imprisoned after a rival grows jealous of his success, Edmond plots revenge after years of captivity. Returning under a new identity, he sets out to dismantle the lives of those who betrayed him. Expect emotional twists, explosive turns and compelling performances from Blake Ritson, Ana Girardot and Jeremy Irons. Griff's Great American South Saturday, C4 Comedian Griff Rhys Jones heads to Charleston, South Carolina, where the American Civil War began. With his signature wit and charm, Griff explores grand architecture, mouthwatering delicacies and Southern hospitality, he dives into the city's rich and controversial past. But along the way, he also meets with the descendants of enslaved people to explore how the region's difficult past still shapes its present. Seven Wonders of the Ancient World Saturday, 7pm, 5 Join Bettany Hughes on a breathtaking journey through time as she sets off across Egypt, Greece and Turkey to rediscover the greatest monuments of the ancient world ever built. From the Great Pyramid to the Colossus of Rhodes, Bettany weaves history and myth into an eye-opening travelogue. Her signature warmth and insight breathe life into ruins, revealing not only their grandeur but the civilisations behind them. Billy Joel: And so it Goes Saturday, 9pm, Sky Documentaries He's sold millions of records and filled stadiums worldwide - but who is Billy Joel? And who is the man behind the performer? This revealing two-part documentary offers rare access to never-before-seen performances, intimate interviews and personal archives as it unpacks the heartache, hope and triumph behind the music. Now 76, the Piano Man lets his guard down as he reflects on the moments that shaped him and the songs that still resonate across multiple generations. William: A Life in Pictures Saturday, 8:30pm, 5 From cradle to crown-in-waiting, this new documentary traces Prince William 's life through his most iconic photographs - from shy schoolboy to future king. With exclusive footage and expert commentary, this documentary reflects on the impact of Diana's death, the lifelong pressures of royal duty, his wedding to Kate Middleton in 2011, and the family he's built. Now at 43, and first in line to the throne, the question remains - how will he shape the monarchy's next chapter? Parenthood Sunday, BBC1 David Attenborough returns to screens with Parenthood - a wild and emotional ride through the highs and lows of raising the next generation. Filmed across 23 countries, this enlightening series captures extraordinary moments of animal parenting, from orcas teaching their young to hunt, to spiders sacrificing themselves for their offspring. Packed with stunning visuals and a stirring score, it's a powerful, raw look at the lengths animals go to for love, survival and legacy. Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins Sunday, 9pm, C4 Fourteen famous faces sign up for the ultimate endurance test in the seventh series of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. Led by Chief Instructor Billy Billingham and his team, the group faces military-level challenges across remote Welsh terrain. Through eight episodes, celebrities are pushed to breaking point and stripped of all comfort as they mirror real Special Forces training. This year's line-up includes Tasha Ghouri, Harry Clark, Troy Deeney, Rebecca Loos and Conor Benn. Naming the Dead Sunday, Disney+ Thousands of unnamed bodies lie forgotten across America. This gripping five-part series follows the race undertaken to uncover their identities. With the help of DNA Doe Project - a leading organisation in genetic investigation and identification - forensic teams and law enforcement tackle decades-old cold cases, using new cutting-edge technology to bring answers and closure to families left in limbo. Part detective story, part human drama, this show combines heartbreak and science. Cooking With the Stars Sunday, ITV Eight celebrities swap the spotlight for the stove in season five of Cooking with the Stars. Through six episodes, all hosted by Emma Willis and Tom Allen, this culinary competition pairs well-known faces in the likes of Natalie Cassidy, Jordan North, Ekin-Su and Kelly Hoppen with professional chefs. Together, they tackle intense cooking battles, hoping to win the Golden Frying Pan. With eliminations judged by the pros themselves, it's a test of nerves, skills and team work. Kensuke's Kingdom Sunday, BBC1 After a storm separates 11-year-old Michael from his parents, he finds himself shipwrecked on a remote, seemingly deserted, island with his dog Stella. Together, they fight to survive - until they meet mysterious island-dweller Kensuke. Voiced by Cillian Murphy, Sally Hawkins, Raffey Cassidy and Ken Watanabe - among many more - this moving animated adaptation of Michael Morpurgo's beloved 1999 novel explores survival, unlikely friendships and the scars of war - both mental and physical. Do You Have ADHD? Tuesday, C4 Dr Clare Bailey Mosley and Dr Karan Rajan front this enlightening documentary on ADHD, diving deep into the realities behind the complex condition. From children and adults waiting in long queues for clarity to specialists supporting life post-diagnosis, the show sheds light on the growing demand for answers. For Clare, it's personal: she steps into the patient role herself, undergoing testing to explore whether ADHD might explain aspects of her own behaviour. Georgia & Tommy: Happy Essex After Tuesday, ITV2 Georgia Kousoulou and Tommy Mallet are back - but it's not all glam and gloss. After more than a decade together and two wedding ceremonies, the TOWIE alumni lift the lid on married life and parenthood in this feel-good six-part series. From chaotic mornings with Brody and Gigi to the realities of romance after babies, it's an unfiltered look at the power couple in their most intimate moments as they navigate their Happy Essex After. Platonic Wednesday, Apple TV+ Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne return as chaotic besties Will and Sylvia in Platonic's second season. After a one-year time jump at the end of season one (and Will's surprise engagement), the pair are still navigating midlife mayhem - from career hiccups to romantic disasters - all while pushing each other into deeper trouble. With familiar faces like Luke Macfarlane and Carla Gallo returning, and comedy favourites Aidy Bryant and Beck Bennett joining in, the mayhem is far from over. Churchill: Winning the War, Losing the Peace Wednesday, 8pm, U&Yesterday In 1945, Winston Churchill led Britain to victory - and the Conservative Party straight into political defeat, just weeks later, when he was swept from office in Labour's landslide defeat. Narrated by actor Paul McGann, this revealing documentary revisits one of the biggest shocks in British political history, exploring why voters turned to Churchill's opponent, Clement Attlee, and how the former Prime Minister's leadership in war failed to secure trust in peace. The Fortune Hotel Wednesday, ITV After a successful first run last year, eleven new pairs check in for another sun-soaked, high-stakes stay in The Fortune Hotel with Stephen Mangan as their host. Each team receives a briefcase - one holds £250k, another an Early Checkout card. Throughout their stay in the Caribbean, players must complete palpitation challenges, build solid alliances and outwit each other to stay in the game. With case-wapping ceremonies and secret twists, only one duo will walk away with the jackpot. Wednesday Nevermore Academy reopens its gates as Jenna Ortega returns as Wednesday Addams in Season two of Netflix's hit gothic drama - and things are off to a tense start when she gets kidnapped. With a new headmaster (Steve Buscemi), her younger brother Pugsley joining the student body and Morticia now working at her school, Wednesday faces pressure from all sides. As mysteries unfold, viewers explore the Addams' family dynamics with national treasure Joanna Lumley as Morticia's mother Hester.