Latest news with #FirstDates
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Will Young gets emotional as he learns truth about family history on TV tonight
Will Young is tracing his family history on Who Do You Think You Are? tonight and gets a shock when he finds a connection to one of medieval history's biggest villains A new episode of Who Do You Think you Are? is airing tonight (Tuesday 3 June) on - BBC 1 with Pop Idol star Will Young delving back into his family history. So far this series, we've seen First Dates star Fred Sirieix, comedian Aisling Bea and Strictly's Layton Williams uncover lost connections and unfamiliar histories as they trace their family tree. Fans can expect to go on an emotional journey with the singer as he starts by researching his paternal granddad, who he never had the chance to meet. Elsewhere, fans can dig their teeth into a sweet treat as Bake Off: The Professionals continues, and The One Show host Matt Baker kicks off his new series... Pick of the Day Who Do You Think You Are?, BBC1, 9pm One day, Will Young 's descendants will boast that they are related to the first ever winner of Pop Idol. But Will has no idea what he's going to find on his own journey into his family's past, apart from his fanciful hope that he is secretly a Viking! Will starts by researching his paternal granddad, Digby, who he never had the chance to meet. He discovers a young man who studied medicine at Oxford University, but spent most of his time competing in swimming races at the pool. After enthusiastically signing up to the RAF Reserves, Digby fought in World War Two, before being captured as a POW after his plane was hit and suffered engine failure. It was an experience he rarely talked about later in life, and the more Will learns, the better he understands what a traumatic ordeal it must have been. There's one particularly incredible story of Digby's heroic efforts within the POW camp that takes Will's breath away... Later, Will picks himself up from Digby's emotional story to research another branch of his family tree. He's shocked to discover his 18x great grandfather Hugh Le Despenser was one of the most contentious figures in 14 th century politics, who owned Goodrich Castle in Herefordshire. It gives Will a spring in his step to visit a family castle, but he soon learns of his ancestor's malicious abuses of power, which made him a villain of the court. Luckily there's another twist to come, as Will discovers a link to Medieval royalty. Bake Off: The Professionals, C4, 8pm If you've not heard of a petit Antoine, you just need to know that it's a calorific French delicacy, involving layers of deliciousness such as praline and chocolate ganache. Tonight, exacting judge Benoit asks the teams to create a batch of these gorgeous treats, with 24 immaculate examples that look and taste identical. They must also serve up 24 uniform fruit tarts, but Cherish wants the pros to completely reinvent the classic dessert, so they won't look anything like the jam tarts you made at school. Just to crank up the pressure, this is a particular favourite for Cherish, so she'll be even more critical than usual (we didn't think it was possible). Tonight's showpiece has a Japanese zen garden theme, and the judges are looking for roll cakes that will feed 24 people. Standard Swiss rolls aren't welcome here, so expect complex creations with flavours that burst through the screen. Matt Baker's British Isles, More 4, 9pm The former One Show host is launching a new series, celebrating the best of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England. But he's not looking at the scenery – this programme is all about the people who make Britain special. Starting in Kent, he discovers the local vineyard owner making fine sparkling wine, giving French champagne producers a run for their money. Then, it's off to the Highlands for something completely different, as Matt swaps anecdotes with two former farmers, who are at the heart of their community as a chaplain and a fiddler. The music theme continues in Northern Ireland, where Matt meets a man who makes stunning acoustic guitars for world-famous musicians. Then it's off to the Rhondda Valley in Wales to visit a buried Victorian railway tunnel. The dedicated locals have grand plans to turn this two-mile long passageway into a walking and cycling route that would be the envy of Europe. Diddy in Plain Sight: Untold, C4, 11.05pm In 2024, shocking CCTV footage was released, showing rapper Sean Combs (also known as both Diddy and Puff Daddy) appearing to assault his girlfriend, singer Cassie, in a hotel. It triggered a wave of new allegations including sex trafficking, which have left the hip hop world reeling. This documentary charts the performer's rise and fall, and talks to people who have spent time with him over the years, including his former bodyguard. They reflect on why it took so long for accusations to surface. EastEnders, BBC1, 7.30pm Peter and Lauren's relationship is hanging by a thread. Peter takes Jimmy to a hospital appointment on his own after Lauren stayed out all evening. Meanwhile, Lauren and Honey have a candid chat. Cindy worries the re-launch of The Albert is going to be a flop when she hears about disappointing ticket sales. Her attempts to build buzz for the event go wrong when she gets into a row with Elaine.
Wales Online
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Fred Sirieix's Olympic star daughter, mystery wife and 'crying every day' on BBC show
Fred Sirieix's Olympic star daughter, mystery wife and 'crying every day' on BBC show The beloved TV personality is on BBC show Who Do You Think You Are? alongside his daughter Fred Sirieix and Fruitcake attend the Royal Albert Hall on March 07, 2025 (Image: Getty Images ) Fred Sirieix has built a distinguished career in the hospitality industry, becoming one of the UK's most recognisable television personalities. After training in a Michelin-starred restaurant in France, he moved to London, where he worked at esteemed establishments such as La Tante Claire and Galvin at Windows, the latter of which he managed for 14 years. Sirieix's transition to television began with Channel 4's "First Dates," where his charm and professionalism as the maître d'hôtel endeared him to audiences. His television repertoire expanded to include shows like "Million Pound Menu" on BBC Two and ITV's "Gordon, Gino and Fred's Road Trip," showcasing his versatility and charisma. In 2023, he was a contestant on "I'm a Me Out of Here!" further cementing his status as a beloved TV figure. Tonight, viewers can see a different side of Sirieix as he delves into his family history on BBC One's "Who Do You Think You Are?" In this episode, he travels to France with his daughter Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix, to explore their roots. Here, we take a look at parts of his life away from the TV screen. Olympic star daughter Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix has established herself as one of Britain's most promising diving talents. Born in London in 2004, she made her international debut at just 13 and clinched her first solo international gold at the 2020 FINA Diving Grand Prix in Rostock. That same year, she was honoured as the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year. Article continues below Her breakthrough came in 2022 when she secured gold in the women's 10m platform at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, becoming the first English woman to win the event since 1966. She followed this feat with European Championship gold in the same discipline and added further accolades in synchronised and mixed synchro events alongside partners Lois Toulson and Noah Williams. In 2024, Spendolini-Sirieix continued her impressive trajectory. At the World Aquatics Championships in Doha, she contributed to Great Britain's gold in the team event and earned bronze medals in both the individual 10m platform and the synchronised 10m platform with Toulson. Later that year, at the Paris Olympics, the duo clinched bronze in the women's 10m synchronised platform, marking a significant milestone in her career. Although she finished sixth in the individual event, her performance solidified her status as a leading figure in British diving. Her achievements were recognised with titles such as European Aquatics' Female Diver of the Year and The Sunday Times Young Sportswoman of the Year. "Amazing," Fred said of his daughter's Olympic achievement in an interview with OK! "Andrea has been training since she was eight. The Olympics was her dream. And to win a medal in Paris – it was incredible. "She's won medals for Britain and Italy, but never in France. She trained so hard she barely went to school, but she still got brilliant results. I've always said if you want something, you've got to work for it. No shortcuts. You're going to suffer. It's got to be painful." Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Spendolini-Sirieix's journey has been marked by resilience. She has openly discussed overcoming personal challenges, including mental health struggles, and credits her family, particularly her father, for their unwavering support. Their emotional embrace after her Olympic bronze win became a poignant moment of the Games. Spendolini-Sirieix (right) was in tears after winning bronze New wife and her nickname Sirieix recently married his long-term partner, affectionately nicknamed "Fruitcake," in a picturesque ceremony at Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica. The couple, who have been together since 2018, exchanged vows on February 18, 2025, after postponing their original wedding plans due to Covid. The bride, however, has not publicly disclosed her real name, leading to an air of mystery around her. On the wedding day, she looked stunning in an elegant white gown, while Sirieix donned a classic white tuxedo jacket and black bow tie. The intimate celebration was attended by close friends and family, including Sirieix's children from a previous relationship, Andrea and Lucien. When asked in the same OK! interview why he nicknamed her Fruitcake, Sirieix replied: "That one's just between her and me. It works for us. She's Fruitcake. That's all you need to know. And that's all she wants you to know. We're happy that way." Despite the couple's public profiles, they have maintained a level of privacy regarding their personal lives. Fruitcake, a fashion enthusiast, has occasionally appeared alongside Sirieix at public events, but the pair have kept details about her personal background and profession private. Sirieix has spoken fondly of their bond, noting how their connection deepened during the pandemic lockdowns, strengthening their commitment to one another. Crying 'every day' on BBC show Sirieix will appear tonight on Who Do You Think You Are? and the journey is an emotional one for the TV star. Sirieix delves into his family history on the BBC One show, during which he travels to France with his daughter, Andrea, to explore their roots. The journey uncovers stories of wartime romance and resilience, including the tale of his grandfather René, a prisoner of war during World War II, and his great-grandfather Léonard Bordas, who fought in some of the most harrowing battles of the First World War . "Oh, I cried every day in fact, because it was very emotional," he said. "I went to Burgundy, where my grandfather was a prisoner of war. I went to the very place he was held during the Second World War. He escaped from there to go home, crossing the whole of France. "It was so dangerous. The penalty was being shot. What I didn't realise is that my grandfather was suffering from PTSD, and so was my great-grandfather, who, incredibly, took part in the First World War from the very first battle to the last. And he survived. Article continues below "I mean, it's just incredible."
Daily Record
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
First Dates' Fred Sirieix speaks out on 'bad joke' after Gino D'Acampo scandal
Fred Sirieix has weighed in on the ongoing debate around humour and offence, in the wake of allegations against his ITV co-star Gino D'Acampo. Fred Sirieix, the beloved maître d' from Channel 4' s 'First Dates', has voiced his thoughts on navigating between humour and offence in light of recent claims against This Morning chef Gino D'Acampo. At 53, Fred delved into the subject during an open discussion with The Times. Known for his appearances with Gino on ITV shows including 'Road Trip', Fred considered the impact of light-hearted remarks, referring to a flirty comment he made on BBC's 'Who Do You Think You Are?' amid scrutiny that Gino faced over allegations of "unacceptable" conduct — which he vehemently denies. Discussing the balance needed in interactions, Fred expressed the opinion that society may need to "reset a little bit". He recounted his experience on the BBC programme where he playfully serenaded a woman at a restaurant. He recalled how he told her: "I was singing Pretty Woman in my head when you were walking in with all your froufrou and everything." Reflecting on turning 53 and wanting to continue these moments of charm, Fred said: "I'm 53; I want to carry on singing Pretty Woman", reports the Mirror. He pondered the consequences of potentially telling a poor joke, stating, "And also I may do a bad joke one day too, you know what I mean?" While not directly referencing Gino's situation, Fred emphasised that there is a stark contrast between an ill-received joke and utterances that are: "But hold on: there's a big difference between a bad joke that somebody doesn't appreciate and saying something rude, inappropriate and quite frankly unacceptable." Fred has urged for society to reconsider its course, passionately pronouncing: "I think we've got to reset a little bit. It's gone too far. I've got to say, I love men. Men are fantastic. They are!". The First Dates host didn't hold back on his views regarding Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, and his approach to immigration, markedly different from that of the Labour party, as highlighted by Gloucestershire Live. When questioned about the possibility of leaving the UK should Farage become prime minister in 2028, Fred remained elusive, pointing out he would decide when necessary but noting the complexities back in France, his native country: "He could be, but we're not there yet. Look, my children are here. I live here and I love this country." In his candid critique of the current political landscape, Fred observed: "All countries have these ups and downs and we are currently at the bottom of a wave. "Things are not going very well, there is no clear sense of direction and the politicians don't know what they're doing." Further contemplating the political climate in France, he remarked: "But in France it's no better. When Macron got elected there, 25 per cent were voting extreme left and 25 per cent voting extreme right." Having won over the nation for nearly three decades with his television roles, including his cherished part in 'First Dates', Fred is quickly becoming a British icon. His latest endeavour takes him on a journey through his ancestry on BBC's 'Who Do You Think You Are?'. In tonight's moving episode, Fred returns to France to delve into his heritage, where he discovers the wartime romance of his maternal grandparents and confronts a long-standing family legend.
Edinburgh Live
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
First Dates' Fred Sirieix in blunt four-word response to Gino D'Acampo scandal
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Fred Sirieix, known for his role as the charming maître d' on Channel 4's 'First Dates', has shared his thoughts on the delicate balance between humour and causing offence. In light of recent allegations against 'This Morning' chef Gino D'Acampo, with whom Fred has appeared on ITV, the 53 year old offered his perspective during an open discussion with The Times. Fred, who has previously joined forces with Gino and Gordon Ramsay for the ITV series 'Road Trip', reflected on a flirtatious comment he made during his stint on the BBC's 'Who Do You Think You Are?' His remarks follow accusations that Gino engaged in "unacceptable" sexualised and aggressive behaviour on set, which Gino vehemently denies. Discussing the need to "reset a little bit", Fred recalled his appearance on the BBC show where he began by serenading a woman at a restaurant with his usual smooth charm, reports the Mirror. He recounted how he told the lady: "I was singing Pretty Woman in my head when you were walking in with all your froufrou and everything." Reflecting on the moment, which the woman took in good spirits, Fred considered: "I'm 53; I want to carry on singing Pretty Woman. "And also I may do a bad joke one day too, you know what I mean?". Without directly referencing Gino's situation, Fred highlighted the distinction: "But hold on: there's a big difference between a bad joke that somebody doesn't appreciate and saying something rude, inappropriate and quite frankly unacceptable." Fred Sirieix has urged for a change in societal attitudes, ardently remarking: "I think we've got to reset a little bit. It's gone too far. I've got to say, I love men. Men are fantastic. They are!". The charming 'First Dates' host delved into the rising popularity of Reform UK and its leader Nigel Farage, alongside his perspective on immigration, offering a stark contrast to Labour's approach, says Gloucestershire Live. When asked about potentially relocating from Britain should Farage clinch the PM role in 2028, Fred was undecided but highlighted ties to both the UK and France: "He could be, but we're not there yet. Look, my children are here. I live here and I love this country." Addressing the current turbulent times, Fred critiqued: "All countries have these ups and downs and we are currently at the bottom of a wave. Things are not going very well, there is no clear sense of direction and the politicians don't know what they're doing." He compared this with the situation in France, commenting on the political extremes there: "But in France it's no better. When Macron got elected there, 25 per cent were voting extreme left and 25 per cent voting extreme right." Over the span of almost three decades, Fred has won over the nation with his television appearances, notably his cherished role on 'First Dates', solidifying his status as a British icon. His most recent endeavour involves tracing his roots on BBC's 'Who Do You Think You Are?' In this evening's poignant episode, Fred journeys back to France to investigate his ancestry, where he discovers the wartime love story of his maternal grandparents and addresses a longstanding family myth.
Daily Mirror
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Fred Sirieix says ‘it's gone too far' after co-star Gino D'Acampo's scandal
First Dates star Fred Sirieix has shared his thoughts on the recent controversy surrounding Gino D'Acampo, who has been accused of making 'unacceptable' comments on set Fred Sirieix, famed for his role as the charming maître d' on Channel 4's 'First Dates', has weighed in on the fine line between humour and offence. His comments come amid allegations levelled at ' This Morning ' chef Gino D'Acampo - who Fred has starred alongside for ITV. At 53, Fred spoke out during a candid chat with The Times. Having previously teamed up with Gino and Gordon Ramsay for their ITV show 'Road Trip', Fred reflected on a flirtatious quip he made on the BBC series 'Who Do You Think You Are?'. His comments come after Gino faced claims of using "unacceptable" sexualised and aggressive language on set, which he strongly refutes. Fred spoke of the need to "reset a little bit", after talking about his BBC appearance. The episode kicked off with Fred exuding his trademark suave demeanour, serenading a lady at a restaurant. He reminisced about telling the woman: "I was singing Pretty Woman in my head when you were walking in with all your froufrou and everything." Looking back at the incident, where the woman received his words warmly, Fred mused: "I'm 53; I want to carry on singing Pretty Woman. "And also I may do a bad joke one day too, you know what I mean?". While not explicitly mentioning Gino 's controversy, Fred pointed out: "But hold on: there's a big difference between a bad joke that somebody doesn't appreciate and saying something rude, inappropriate and quite frankly unacceptable." Fred Sirieix has called for a societal rethink, passionately stating: "I think we've got to reset a little bit. It's gone too far. I've got to say, I love men. Men are fantastic. They are!" The 'First Dates' maître d' also weighed in on the political ascent of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and his party's stance on immigration, contrasting it with Labour's policies, reports Gloucestershire Live. When probed about potentially leaving Britain if Farage were to become PM in 2028, Fred remained non-committal. Fred noted that he would make that decision when the time comes, while pointing out that France, his homeland, is facing its own challenges: "He could be, but we're not there yet. Look, my children are here. I live here and I love this country." Fred didn't shy away from critiquing the current state of affairs, saying: "All countries have these ups and downs and we are currently at the bottom of a wave. Things are not going very well, there is no clear sense of direction and the politicians don't know what they're doing." Reflecting on the political climate across the Channel, he added: "But in France it's no better. When Macron got elected there, 25 per cent were voting extreme left and 25 per cent voting extreme right." Having charmed the nation over nearly three decades through his television work, including his beloved role on 'First Dates', Fred is fast becoming a British icon. His latest venture sees him exploring his lineage on BBC's 'Who Do You Think You Are?'. In tonight's emotional episode, Fred travels back to France to delve into his heritage, where he uncovers the wartime romance of his maternal grandparents and confronts a long-standing family legend. The episode is set to air on Tuesday evening at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
