Win a copy of The Favourite by Fran Littlewood in this week's Fabulous book competition
ALEX, Eva and Nancy are three sisters who are all thriving in their adult lives – until during their annual family holiday with their parents Vivienne and Patrick, their dad lets slip that he has a favourite daughter.
Soon more secrets are revealed and the tension between the sisters threatens to bubble over.
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10 lucky Fabulous readers will win a copy of this new novel in this week's book competition
Funny, sharp and so relatable.
10 lucky Fabulous readers will win a copy of this new novel in this week's book competition.
To win a copy, enter using the form below by 11:59pm on June 21, 2025.
For full terms and conditions, click here.
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Daily Record
a day ago
- Daily Record
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 complete line-up from EastEnders star to Vogue model
The full line-up for Strictly Come Dancing 2025 has been announced as the hit BBC show is set to return to screens very soon The excitement for this year's Strictly Come Dancing is now officially building momentum. Celebrity contestants for this year's series have been revealed throughout the week, with the final participant confirmed on Friday afternoon. BBC viewers won't need to wait much longer to witness them take to the dancefloor, following an accidental on-air slip revealing the launch date, though the professional partner pairings remain under wraps. With all names now officially confirmed for this year's series, including the likes of a Game of Thrones star, Love Island royalty and a Vogue model, viewers are in for a treat this series. Here's the complete lineup for Strictly Come Dancing 2025. Harry Aikines-Aryeetey Sportsman Harry Aikines-Aryeetey is most recognised for his stint as Nitro on the BBC programme Gladiators, reports the Express. The multiple gold medal-winning Team GB sprint star already has Strictly experience under his belt, having participated in the 2024 Christmas special alongside professional Nancy Xu. Discussing his involvement in this year's main series, Harry commented: "After the Christmas Special, it was so nice I just had to do it twice! I'm so excited to be part of the Strictly family this series and I'm ready to give it all I've got. "I'll be bringing tons of energy to light up the dance floor. Let's hope I'm as quick picking up the routines as I am on the track." Dani Dyer Dani Dyer, offspring of actor Danny Dyer, became the second celebrity confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing. The 29-year-old shot to fame during her Love Island appearance in 2018 and has subsequently presented documentaries including Is This Anxiety? When discussing her participation in the programme, Dani remarked: "Getting the opportunity to be on Strictly is the second most amazing thing I've done this year! I feel very, very blessed and cannot wait to get my dancing shoes on." Alex Kingston Numerous Strictly enthusiasts will know Alex from her appearances in Doctor Who and ER, where she became well-known for portraying Dr Elizabeth Corday across eight years. She's equally recognised as the notorious River Song, The Doctor's Wife, in the BBC science fiction series. Nevertheless, Alex has also featured in Gilmore Girls, A Discovery of Witches and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. It appears that Alex is feeling a combination of nerves about joining this year's contestants, as she merely stated to the BBC: " Aaaaagghhh!!!!!!" Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink The fourth individual who was announced to be participating in this year's Strictly Come Dancing was ex-professional footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. Despite retiring from the sport in 2008, Jimmy has subsequently become a recognisable figure in football commentary for leading UK sports broadcasters. Regarding his Strictly Come Dancing involvement, Jimmy said: "Swapping the pitch for the ballroom is certainly not something I've done before but I'm looking forward to tackling a fun challenge! Bring on a new type of footwork, with hopefully no own goals." Balvinder Sopal Balvinder Sopal is most recognised for her portrayal of Suki Panesar in BBC's EastEnders. Following her arrival on the cherished soap in 2019, the performer has featured in numerous captivating plots. However, the actress has also starred in many other well-known shows, including Call the Midwife, Doctors, Waterloo Road and even rival soap Coronation Street. Upon joining Strictly Come Dancing, Balvinder Sopal stated: "Being on Strictly is a dream that I held on to, with no proof that it would ever happen. "Working on EastEnders and being a part of Strictly Come Dancing is the stuff that dreams are made of. I'm far too excited to put into words how I feel but I'm incredibly excited at the prospect of dancing across the ballroom!" George Clarke George was the sixth celebrity announced as competing in this year's Strictly Come Dancing, having been revealed on the radio. The young star is a well-known YouTuber, podcaster and social media influencer with thousands of followers. Upon joining Strictly Come Dancing, George Clarke stated: "Never thought I'd say this... but I'm doing Strictly! Honestly, I've got no idea what I'm doing but I'm excited to get stuck in... and potentially fall over a fair bit." La Voix Viewers of RuPaul Drag Race will recognise La Voix as she was the runner-up in the 2024 finale, boasting an impressive four RuPeter Badges. However, before becoming a fan-favourite on the beloved drag competition, La Voix had many television appearances, including dazzling on ITV's Queens For The Night and singing on Paramount's Queen Of The Universe. La Voix was brimming with enthusiasm when discussing her Strictly debut, declaring: "I've performed for royalty, RuPaul and Simon Cowell, but nothing fills me with more excitement (and quite a bit of terror) than the thought of dancing in front of millions on live Saturday night TV. "Strictly is a national institution and I can't wait to get started. All that's left to say is: good luck to my partner! Here's hoping they can help me go from La Voix into La Danse." Chris Robshaw Former England rugby union skipper Chris Robshaw was revealed as the eighth celebrity contestant joining this year's Strictly Come Dancing lineup. Chris secured an outstanding 66 caps for England and led the national side on 43 occasions. Speaking about his Strictly Come Dancing participation, Chris Robshaw revealed: "This is about as far out of my comfort zone as it gets! I'm hoping to take my dad dancing to a whole new level, and my mum can't wait to drag me along to her Zumba class. Let's see if a rugby sidestep works in the Cha Cha Cha." Ellie Goldstein Groundbreaking 23-year-old model, actress and social media star Ellie Goldstein broke barriers as the first person with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue. Beyond featuring in publications including Elle, Glamour, Mission Mag and Euphoria, the rising talent has recently demonstrated her acting prowess in CBBC's Malory Towers. Two years ago, toy giant Mattel collaborated with Ellie to create the inaugural Barbie doll with Down syndrome. Upon joining Strictly Come Dancing, Ellie Goldstein expressed her excitement: "I'm absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year. It's a show I've loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream. "I know it's going to be challenging, but I'm ready to do it with the glitter and glamour and make some magic on that dancefloor. Let the Strictly journey begin!" Thomas Skinner Thomas Skinner, who first gained recognition on BBC's The Apprentice in 2019, has since made appearances on numerous TV shows. The 34-year-old has also been featured on 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Wheel, Michael McIntyre's Big Show, Faking It and Celebrity Masterchef. Recently, Thomas' social media videos have seen an increase in popularity and he has even published a book. On his participation in Strictly Come Dancing, Thomas shared: "I'm beyond excited to be joining Strictly Come Dancing. I've tackled the boardroom and some big breakfasts in my time, but stepping onto the dance floor under that glitter ball is next-level stuff! "I've never danced in my life (other than at weddings) but I'm ready to graft and of course have a laugh. Bring on the sequins, sambas and most importantly, the BOSH to the ballroom!" Vicky Pattison Vicky Pattison is no newcomer to television, having found fame on Geordie Shore back in 2011. Since then, she's carved out a career as a television presenter, author and podcast/radio host. In 2015, she captured the hearts of ITV audiences after being crowned Queen of the Jungle on I'm A Me Out of Here! Never one to back down from televised challenges, Vicky has participated in Celebrity MasterChef and BBC's Sport Relief: All Star Games. "I'm absolutely buzzing to be part of this year's Strictly Come Dancing lineup... but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't terrified," she told the BBC. Vicky added: "I am a not a natural dancer! However, it's such an amazing opportunity for me to step out of my comfort zone and to challenge myself in a completely new way and I just really hope I don't make too much of a fool of myself!" Stefan Dennis Stefan was revealed as the 12th celebrity in the Strictly line-up on This Morning alongside Vicky Pattison. The actor is most famous for playing Paul Robinson in the longest-running drama series in Australian television history, Neighbours. Featuring in more than 6,000 episodes of the cherished programme, Stefan became a cornerstone of the show. On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Stefan Dennis says: "This is an opportunity for me to once again learn to step out of my comfort zone in the world of television. Looking forward to the sparkle and reaching for the sky." Ross King Ross King is frequently spotted on ITV's Lorraine as the Hollywood showbiz correspondent. Though he typically appears via videolink, Ross turned up in the Lorraine studio on Friday morning during his reveal. He boasts four News Emmy awards and has presented more than 30 television programmes since making his radio debut at 15 and first appearing on TV at 17. When his participation was announced, Ross became visibly emotional and began welling up during the live broadcast. Discussing his Strictly Come Dancing involvement, Ross King commented: "From the bright lights of Hollywood to the glittering ballroom - it's a dream come true to be part of such an iconic show. "I can't wait to learn from the best, meet my fellow contestants, and, most importantly... try not to step on too many toes! Let's give this the best that I can! As my mum always said: "You'll never know till you give it a go!" Karen Carney The fourteenth celebrity revealed was Karen Carney, a former professional footballer who represented Chelsea, Arsenal, Birmingham City and England. Despite retiring from the sport in 2019, she remains a prominent television personality and currently serves as the primary female football analyst for both men's and women's matches on TNT and ITV. Discussing her participation in this year's competition, Karen remarked: "It really is a dream come true to be a part of this year's Strictly Come Dancing line-up. "I'm such a huge fan of the show and I can't believe I'm finally getting the chance to take part. I'm so excited to meet everyone and get dancing!" Kristian Nairn Kristian Nairn gained fame portraying the memorable character Hodor in HBO's acclaimed drama Game of Thrones. He has also featured in productions including the comedy series Our Flag Means Death and crime drama Ripper Street. Beyond his acting pursuits, Kristian is one of Ireland's most active house DJs, having performed alongside big names such as Steve Aoki, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Fatboy Slim, and Danny Howard. Regarding his appearance on the BBC show, the actor expressed: "This will be a huge challenge for me physically, but I'm ready to rise to it! It's a surreal and wonderful opportunity to shed one of my left feet!"
The Guardian
2 days ago
- The Guardian
Hostage to Long Story Short: the seven best shows to stream this week
Abigail Dalton has assured her husband, Alex, that becoming prime minister won't stop her from making the right decisions for her family. This is then tested painfully. Dalton (Suranne Jones) is already facing a tough negotiation with the French president, Vivienne Toussaint (Julie Delpy), who is wooing the far right in the name of re-election and hardballing her on the subject of immigration. When Alex is kidnapped in French Guiana, his fate is in Toussaint's hands. But she has a personal weakness that makes her an easy target for blackmail. Certain aspects of Hostage feel generic but it's pacy and gripping and the two leads bounce off each other with captivating frenemy relish. Netflix, from Thursday 21 August Exciting news for BoJack Horseman fans: creator Raphael Bob-Waksberg explores the triumphs and tragedies of the loving but dysfunctional Schwooper family in this new animation. It's told via a series of narrative jumps between childhood and adulthood, locating a perfect balance between the delightful, infuriating triviality of family life and the big stuff that gives context to the everyday. In common with Bob-Waksberg's previous show, it packs a hefty emotional punch. And don't be afraid to get invested in these likable, slightly hapless characters – season two has already been confirmed. Netflix, from Friday 22 August Another bout of soul-crushing affluenza, this time introducing the London arm of a franchise that has, since 2006, found a comfortable niche in monetising pathological deficits of self-awareness. The six squabbling socialites include Juliet Angus and Caroline Stanbury whom fans of the genre may remember from Bravo's Ladies of London and The Real Housewives of Dubai. While this pair have the benefit of experience, their companions soon get into the swing – it's a feast of big houses, garish frocks, status-led conflict and overuse of the word 'iconic'. Hayu, from Monday 18 August 'This is a soap opera, 365 days a year.' Dallas Cowboys owner, president and general manager Jerry Jones is describing his NFL team but he's also offering an insight into why the readymade narratives of sports teams are currently so irresistible to documentary-makers on streaming platforms. This series has a wider scope than most, telling the story of the rise of the Cowboys through the 90s and the controversies that accompanied them on their route to three NFL titles. It's slick, glossy and very pleased with itself. Netflix, from Tuesday 19 August Sign up to What's On Get the best TV reviews, news and features in your inbox every Monday after newsletter promotion This eight-part drama is written from the point of view of Amanda Knox, who was initially convicted of the 2007 murder of Meredith Kercher before being acquitted on appeal. The tone is uncertain, going from oddly jaunty to melodramatic, and its foregrounding of Knox's story won't be to everyone's taste – hardly surprising, given that she (and Monica Lewinsky) executive produced the show. But it does capture the sense of rising panic as, surrounded by legal proceedings she barely understands, Knox starts to realise how much trouble she's in. Disney+, from Wednesday 20 August At times during its first two seasons, this divisive sci-fi show has achieved the seemingly impossible by making an alien invasion of Earth seem humdrum. As the third instalment arrives, it's still hard to shake off the feeling that Invasion should be better than it is – it is brave to keep the focus on the Earthlings and not the extraterrestrials but that can make the show feel like a slow burn. Still, action is surely in the offing this time as survivors from around the world must band together on a mission to infiltrate the aliens' mothership. Apple TV+, from Friday 22 August The bizarre story of the allegedly racist and homophobic hate attack against actor Jussie Smollett began in 2019 and ended in him serving six days in prison in 2022 for apparently staging the incident with two acquaintances. The conviction was later overturned, but the fallout has seriously damaged Smollett's career. This documentary (from the producers of Don't F**k With Cats) looks set to reignite the controversy. Could Smollett's story have been true all along? It features interviews with police, lawyers and investigators who claim to have found new facts about the case. Netflix, from Friday 22 August
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Dad visits Disney World and issues brutal verdict – but fans spot big mistake
Walt Disney World Resort, Florida is a family favourite, but social influencer Alex Dobson has dropped a video expressing his thoughts on the park - and it's gone viral in just a day With the summer holidays in full swing, many families will be embarking on vacations, whether that's abroad or as part of a staycation. Some of those seasonal revellers will be lucky enough to be visiting 'Mickey's House', AKA, Walt Disney World Resort, Florida. It's estimated that just under 1 million UK visitors travel to Orlando annually, with 80% of those visiting 'the most magical place of earth'. However, while Disney World and Disney Land are widely loved by children and held with a fierce nostalgia by many parents (and non-parents), the reality can sometimes prove to be less than dreamy. What's more, one viral video recently popped the Mickey-ears shaped bubble with one deft swipe. Alex Dodman is a social influencer with roughly 450,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram. The father-of-three is famous for his 'real reviews' of family days out, attractions and holidays, as well as viral trends and cultural events - and now his spotlight is firmly on the Disney resort. Opening the review with a wry, "It's almost like we've been programmed to think that this is the most magical place on earth", while filming a motorway gantry leading into the theme park that proclaims the very same, Alex boldly claims that "it's probably the most overpriced tourist p**stakes in history". As many a parent who's been through the Disney World machine will attest to, the resort is not cheap. A Disney World holiday for a family of four from the UK, including flights, can range from around £6,500 to £15,000 or more, depending on the various packages. And the repeated financial roundhouse kicks are not entirely conducive to a happy holiday between married people, either, with Alex saying it's likely they're going to "pretend they're having a good time posting about it online, when in reality they've probably argued about 1,000 times, been on the brink of divorce, and each child has had an overstimulated meltdown every half an hour". According to the influencer: "A ticket to get in here for the day for two adults, two kids and a baby was $709 and because I actually wanted the kids to go on a ride this time, I got some lightning Lane tickets for three rides for an extra $136... How is this even allowed?" 'Main Street', the thoroughfare with full view of the Disney Castle, is one to swerve, says Alex. Not impressed with people that "pretended to cry when they first saw the castle", he cracked on to the rides - saying that "having some lightning Lane tickets did work well". He was less than impressed with the rides themselves, saying the 'Barnstormer' "lasted for 25 seconds", 'Peter Pan's Flight' was "basically pitch black" and 'It's a Small World' was "everyone's favourite nightmare". Conceding that he did understand why "this place is some people's happy place", Alex reflected that the 'trap' may lie in the fact that Brits have travelled all the way to Orlando. For that reason, it's tempting to give in to the cost to embrace a "once in a lifetime" trip. However, he went on to say that: "There's no way you can enjoy this without having in the back of the mind how utterly screwed you're being done by Disney". Summing up, Alex considered the pay off of such a pricey trip, saying: "Did the kids enjoy it? Yeah. But we also went to Clearwater Beach for the weekend, and they said they had a better time jumping in the sea there, which was free". He added: "However you chop it up, it's way too expensive." Comments to the video were mixed, with some wholeheartedly agreeing and others fiercely defending the place that they deeply love. Many pointed out that Alex's big mistake was not booking park hopper tickets that make the experience a whole lot more affordable. Doing more research could have helped him to avoid the busiest queues, too. One follower helpfully supplied: "Yeah, feels like you need so much insider knowledge to not be stung so much with Disney. Park hopper tickets are a better and cheaper option. Staying at Disney property helps for costs with parking for free and dining plans." Another person was keen to help too, saying: "Disney World takes a lot of research to do it well and paying for lightning lanes on these type of rides shows you didn't complete basic training in Disney world trip planning. I think it's to do with having really little kids too it's so much fun in the bigger better rides with older kids". One poster was relived that they weren't missing out, saying: "Thank you for blessing us poor who can't get there that we aren't depriving our kids and ourselves of the most magical experience on earth". And one full-blown fan was clear where her loyalty lay, expressing: "I'm in the Disney cult. Please don't save me if I blink. They can take my hard earned cash from me so I can walk down that busy street, get tears in my eyes and reminisce of days gone by. "
