Latest news with #SmashHits
Daily Record
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
90s pop star warns celebs to be 'very afraid' ahead of autobiography release
Celebrity Big Brother contestant Kavana says he was 'broken by addiction' as he opens up in his upcoming book. The pop star of the nineties, Anthony Kavanagh, is warning celebs to be 'very afraid' ahead of the release of his autobiography. More well known by his stage name Kavana, the 47-year-old became a pop sensation with hits such as I Can Make You Feel Good, MFEO and Crazy Chance. Anthony is set to release his explosive memoir - Pop Scars - in July, in which he has promised to tell all about his experiences in the limelight. While talking about his battles with addiction, the singer is also said to lift the lid on the supposedly 'innocent' 90s pop scene. Nearly three decades ago, Anthony graced the covers of teen pop magazines, including Smash Hits, as a bright-eyed 20-year old. However, since then, he has been candid about his addiction problems over the years, reports the Mirror. For example, last year he shared a post on Instagram that included before and after photos of his recovery battle, along with the caption: "Recovery is possible." He has also spoken about his drastic change in appearance compared to how he looked a year and half prior, when he was in one of his lowest states, and what steps he had taken to get help. In the comments, he wrote: "On #addictionawarenessweek I want to make anyone struggling aware that recovery is possible. 20 months ago I was lost, broken and hopeless. Ask for help, I'm so glad I did." Many of his celebrity pals flooded the comments with encouraging messages, including former Bad Boys Inc singer Matthew Pateman who said: "Proud of you." Steps' H Watkins also added a heartfelt "Proud friend", while 911's Lee Brennan wrote: "Superstar". While he has many friends who support him, with the upcoming release of his 'explosive' book, some of his friends and acquaintances may be in for a surprise. Speaking to Attitude magazine back in 2017, Anthony promised that he would write an exposing memoir about his experience in the music industry. He said: "I am very excited about it. It's more of a memoir, I'll save the autobiography for when I'm older. It'll be warts [and all] and recalls what was happening back in the pop industry back in the 90s and when I went to live in Hollywood. "There are some really outrageous stories that most people wouldn't know about. Yes, people should be afraid…very afraid." The former star has since promoted his book on his Instagram, claiming that it is "for the underdog". Posting a picture of the front cover that shows an image of Kavana back in the 90s, he said: "Can't believe I'm saying this but I actually wrote a book. "Like by myself, like those grown ups do. POP SCARS covers all things 90s pop but more importantly what happens AFTER fame." He continued: "It's about teenage fame, loss, addiction and hope, and how not to iron a white Kappa tracksuit. It's been described as 'Laugh out loud, jaw dropping, and heartfelt' but you can decide that. Come join the ride with me. More news to come. This is for the underdog." Kavana didn't disappear after his pop career ended, as he remained in the spotlight through a variety of television appearances. This includes starring in Hollyoaks: In the City in 2006, being a finalist on TV competition Grease Is the Word in 2007, auditioning for The Voice in 2014 and coming seventh in Celebrity Big Brother in 2015. In 2014, the star came out as gay as he revealed a past secret romance with Boyzone's Stephen Gately. However, his battle with addiction followed as he confessed to feeling "guilty and sick" about his relapse. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. He said: "Ok. I think it's important for me to be transparent about my recovery. I relapsed after 100 days of sobriety. I feel guilty and sick and I hate myself after letting the people I love down. I thought I knew better. I have to start again."
Daily Mirror
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
90s pop star 'broken by addiction' warns celebs to be 'very afraid' over exposé
Former 90s pop star and Celebrity Big Brother contestant Kavana has been very candid about his addiction battles, but now he's promised to be honest over his heyday experiences too Nineties pop sensation Anthony Kavanagh warned celebs to be 'very afraid' over his upcoming autobiography. The now-47 year old singer who had a string of hits including I Can Make You Feel Good, Crazy Chance and MFEO using the stage name Kavana, made the threat prior to the release of his explosive memoir, Pop Scars, which he's promising will tell all about his experience with fame. The singer has been candid about his battles with addiction since hitting the spotlight as a fresh-faced 20 year old nearly three decades ago, when he graced the covers of teen pop magazines including Smash Hits. Last year, he candidly shared on Instagram a before-and-after photo that illustrated his journey from a dark place last year to a successful recovery, along with an encouraging caption for his fans: "Recovery is possible." He spoke about how vastly different he looked compared to one and a half years previously, when he was at a low ebb, and explained how he'd taken steps to get help. Leaving a powerful comment with his images, he said: "On #addictionawarenessweek I want to make anyone struggling aware that recovery is possible. 20 months ago I was lost, broken and hopeless. Ask for help, I'm so glad I did." Celebrity pals rallied around with messages of encouragement, including former Bad Boys Inc singer Matthew Pateman who declared, "Proud of you," while Steps' H Watkins chimed in with a heartfelt, "Proud friend," and 911's Lee Brennan added: "Superstar." But with the release of the book , some of his friends and acquaintances in the industry could be in for a shock. Back in 2017, Anthony spoke to Attitude magazine and promised that he'd write a revealing memoir about his time in the music industry, to lift the lid on the wild goings on of the seemingly-innocent 90s pop scene. He told the publication: "I am very excited about it. It's more of a memoir, I'll save the autobiography for when I'm older. It'll be warts [and all] and recalls what was happening back in the pop industry back in the 90s and when I went to live in Hollywood. There are some really outrageous stories that most people wouldn't know about. Yes, people should be afraid…very afraid." And it seems the former idol is excited about what's to come, as he recently promoted the book on his Instagram page. Alongside a shot of its cover, featuring an image of Kavana at the height of his success, he said: "Can't believe I'm saying this but I actually wrote a book. Like by myself, like those grown ups do. POP SCARS covers all things 90s pop but more importantly what happens AFTER fame." And he continued: "It's about teenage fame, loss, addiction and hope, and how not to iron a white Kappa tracksuit. It's been described as 'Laugh out loud, jaw dropping, and heartfelt' but you can decide that. Come join the ride with me. More news to come. This is for the underdog." After his pop career ended, Anthony stayed in the spotlight, going on to star in Hollyoaks: In The City in 2006, before becoming a finalist on the TV competition Grease Is the Word in 2007, auditioning for The Voice on ITV and finishing seventh on Celebrity Big Brother in 2015. He later revealed a 12-month stalking hell. He also came out as gay in 2014, revealing a past secret romance with Stephen Gately from Boyzone. But his addiction battle followed, with Anthony previously confessing he felt "guilty and sick" for relapsing, saying: "Ok. I think it's important for me to be transparent about my recovery. I relapsed after 100 days of sobriety. I feel guilty and sick and I hate myself after letting the people I love down. I thought I knew better. I have to start again."
Belfast Telegraph
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Belfast Telegraph
Belfast-born founder of one of world's biggest movie magazines passes away aged 65
In a statement, Empire – one of the the world's biggest movie magazines – wrote that Mr McIlheney, a 'journalist, editor, publisher, broadcaster, and one-time vocalist for Northern Irish post-punk band Shock Treatment passed away in his sleep in the early hours of yesterday [Monday] morning, it has been confirmed'. Colin McIlheney shared the news of his brother's death on Facebook on Tuesday morning, writing: "It is with a very heavy heart that I have to share the news that my brother Barry died unexpectedly and peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of yesterday morning, Monday 26th May at his home in Spain. "This has come as a terrible shock to our family and especially to Lola, Frankie and Mary. We all loved Barry very much and I shared a close bond with him [...] He will be very much missed by us all.' Mr McIlheney was born in Northern Ireland's capital on 13 May, 1960. After earning degrees from Trinity College Dublin and City University London, he began his journalism career with local newspapers. He later moved to Melody Maker, which paved the way for his appointment as editor of Smash Hits in 1986. You will be remembered as a creative beacon The magazine hit its peak in 1989, with sales topping one million per issue, having been steered through the mid-1980s and its peak golden years by Mr McIlheney. From there, Mr McIlheney — following a suggestion from old Smash Hits colleague Dave Hepworth about making a film-based publication — would go on to become the founding editor of Empire in 1989, enjoying a three-year reign at the helm. He launched issues featuring cover stars from Michael Keaton to Michelle Pfeiffer, Bruce Willis to Julia Roberts, and Tom Cruise to Spike Lee, always with the promise of delivering reviews and features on every big cinema and home entertainment release from day one. Behind-the-scenes look at filming for How to Train Your Dragon in Northern Ireland ahead of release Following his time at Empire, Mr McIlheney took on the role of Managing Director at EMAP Metro in 1994, overseeing prominent titles like Q, FHM, and Mojo. He later spearheaded the launch of Heat magazine in 1999. Barry McIlheney later transitioned into consultancy, where his extensive industry experience earned him the role of Chief Executive at the Professional Publishers Association. Empire magazine added: 'For helping give movies the magazine they deserved, for setting the standard which each of us here at Empire strive to live up to every day, and for all that you have done for us, we thank you Barry McIlheney. "You will be remembered as a creative beacon for the publishing industry, and as a man beloved by friends, family, and colleagues alike. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the McIlheney family and all of Barry's friends at this time.'
Extra.ie
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Extra.ie
Taste of Dublin Marks 20 Years with Another Yummy Festival
Dublin's most flavour-packed festival is back – and this year, it's bigger, bolder, and tastier than ever. From June 12–15, the iconic Taste of Dublin, in association with JYSK, returns to the lush surroundings of Merrion Square, marking 20 years of unforgettable food, fun, and festivity. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply seeking the ultimate day out with friends, this milestone edition is not to be missed. Taste of Dublin isn't just another food festival, it's a celebration of how far Ireland's culinary scene has come. Across four days, the city centre will come alive with pop-up restaurants, sizzling food stalls, and artisan producers serving up everything from Irish classics to international flavours. Taste of Dublin Pic: Supplied With live cooking demos from Ireland's top chefs and interactive masterclasses for hands-on fun there will be endless foodie inspiration at every turn! But it's not just about the food… The Bulmers Music Stage will keep the party going with performances from feel-good favourites like Smash Hits, Spring Break, The Runaways, and The Swing Cats – creating the perfect soundtrack to a sun-soaked weekend in the city. Taste of Dublin Pic: Supplied If you're looking for a real treat, the Häagen-Dazs VIP Suite is back and better than ever this year, offering a luxurious escape within the festival. VIP ticket holders can enjoy: Fast-track entry Lounge access with unreserved seating Exclusive restrooms and cloakroom A chilled glass of Laurent Perrier Champagne A fragrant Glendalough Wild Rose Gin & Tonic A revitalising Caffè Vergnano coffee And of course, a Häagen-Dazs ice cream treat If you upgrade to the VIP Suite Bundle, and you'll also receive two Signature Dishes from the festival's standout restaurants, making it the ultimate way to indulge. Taste of Dublin Pic: Supplied To mark this milestone anniversary, Taste of Dublin is releasing a limited-edition cookbook, Taste of Dublin: The Recipes, featuring delicious dishes from Irish culinary icons like Neven Maguire, Rachel Allen, Donal Skehan, and Trisha Lewis. Available to pre-order for €17.50, a portion of proceeds will support the Dublin Simon Community, making it a feel-good keepsake in every sense. Standard tickets for Taste of Dublin start from just €20.50, while the VIP Packages are from €57.50 Tickets and full festival info available now at the official Taste of Dublin website. Whether you come for the flavours, the music, or the atmosphere, one thing's for sure – this is the tastiest birthday party Dublin's ever seen!
Telegraph
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
The Assembly, review: Danny Dyer braves a bracingly direct grilling, with charm and an open heart
If you've ever had a sneaking suspicion that members of the public could do a better job than TV presenters when it comes to conducting interviews and holding people to account, The Assembly (ITV1) is here to prove you right. This is a gem of a show in which a group of autistic, neurodivergent and learning disabled people put questions to a celebrity. There is no Graham Norton-style fawning or Today programme grandstanding from the interviewers, who take the mic one by one. It helps that the first celebrity subject is Danny Dyer, who throws himself into proceedings wholeheartedly. The questions broadly fall into two categories: sweetly honest and bracingly direct. All are specific – none of your wishy-washy, 'Tell me about your creative process,' gubbins here. 'How much money did you get paid for presenting The Wall?' (Answer: £100,000) 'How working class were you to send your son to private school?' ('I don't regret it but… I used to get the bus. I don't think they've ever been on a f---ing bus. They get driven door-to-door in a Bentley.') The programme kicked off with a spicy reference to Dyer's previous marriage difficulties; even Piers Morgan would shy away from opening with: 'When Jo kicked you out, she emptied your shared bank account. Do you still have a shared bank account now?' A lady in a sparkly top voiced what we were all thinking when she asked Dyer why he kept swearing. One chap playfully challenged him to a fight. Another asked: 'What's your favourite kebab?' These sorts of questions brought to mind the late, great Smash Hits magazine. But there were more poignant moments in the programme, as when someone spoke of being abandoned by their father and asked Dyer how he had coped with a similar situation. Dyer recalled with clarity a moment from his boyhood when he reached for his dad's hand to cross the road 'and he told me I wasn't allowed to hold his hand any more'. He followed it up with some words of wisdom: 'Children just need stability and affection and to feel like they're loved. When you haven't got that, it's a really tough thing. It's their loss… we can't force people to be decent human beings.' The pilot for this show aired on the BBC a year ago but the producer recently told Radio Times that the broadcaster could not afford to commission a full season, hence its move to ITV1. This is a bit baffling, because the programme doesn't look as if it costs a fortune to make. The format is adapted from the French show Les Rencontres du Papotin, on which Emmanuel Macron gamely appeared and was asked if marrying his teacher set a bad example. Dyer was wonderfully patient and open-hearted, dispensing hugs and cracking jokes. He was never patronising. He even led a group meditation session, which you probably didn't have on your Danny Dyer bingo card. But in one sense, he was too easy a choice. You get the impression that he would answer questions with this much candour, whoever he was talking to, whether it was Nick Robinson or the milkman. Get some politicians in front of this lot so we can see what they're made of.
