Latest news with #X-Factor
Metro
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
'I lost both eyes and my guide dog in one year - then stand-up comedy saved me'
Sydney May hates X-Factor style sob stories. She also doesn't want any kind of admiration for putting her shoes on the right feet. So if you've come here for that, please gently leave. What she can say, proudly, is that she's done something many able-bodied people wouldn't allow themselves: stand up on stage and very successfully make people laugh. So well, in fact, that she's won two gongs this year – including the Comedy Bloomers' LGBTQ new comedian of the year award. That's a huge achievement for anyone: not just for a blind person. 'People are always like, 'Oh, my God, you're amazing. How do you do that? I couldn't put toast in the toaster if I couldn't see,'' Sydney tells Metro over Zoom. 'I'm like, 'Of course you could..' So it's really nice to be admired for being good at something, and not just good despite the fact that you can't see.' As a baby, Sydney had retinoblastoma, which is a form of retinal cancer. 'My mum kept saying, 'Something's wrong. She's squinting.' They said, 'Babies always squint'.' While Sydney had some sight as a baby, she has no memory of being able to see as the cancer quickly took hold. But it's not all doom and gloom. 'In many ways, I count myself lucky,' Sydney says. 'I had cancer, and the only thing it took was my eyes. 'Some people find the concept of me saying I'm lucky to be a hard one, but I'd say it could have been a hell of a lot worse.' As per the NHS, Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that can affect young children. It affects the retina, which is at the back of the eye. Retinoblastoma can affect 1 or both eyes. The main symptom is a white glow or white reflection in the centre of the eye (pupil). You may be able to see it from just looking at the eye, or you may see it in low light or in photos where a flash has been used. Other symptoms of retinoblastoma can include: the eyes pointing in a different direction (squint) the coloured part of the eye (iris) changing colour swelling around the eye uncontrolled eye movements vision problems pain in 1 or both eyes Your child may otherwise seem well. Treatment aims to get rid of the cancer, but there is a high chance your child may lose some, or all, of their vision in the affected eye. But life is not without its struggles, as Sydney experienced a few years ago. While her eyes did not work, Sydney still had them. But when they began to deteriorate and die, she made the decision to have them removed in what ended up being an 'incredibly painful' post-operation recovery. She then lost her guide dog of eight years (and she's now three years into a waiting list to get a new one). This all happened within a 12-month period. 'I'm harder against physical pain than I used to be before,' she says. 'But the emotional stuff I've been through as well has not been fun, and comedy really came at a time when I needed something. 'I didn't know what it was. I just needed something new, and I found it.' As a blind comedian, Sydney can feel everything on stage. Her senses are heightened to pick up on the atmosphere. 'It's really important that people laugh. I always say it's no good smiling,' Sydney chuckles. Sydney thinks it was an advantage in the Comedy Bloomers final that she couldn't see the audiences' faces, which were lit up alarmingly bright for the comedians. 'In a way I think it can be an advantage that I don't have to see the audience, but it does mean I need to feel them,' she says. 'I need to hear them. I guess I'm sensitive to the energy in the room. I need to feel that energy.' Sydney's favourite rooms are small, intimate venues, where chuckles spread like contagion. 'If it's a big room and they're really far away, you just feel like you're working a bit harder for the laughs,' she says. If people are disrespectful and talk through shows, that's doubly distracting for Sydney. 'I probably am sensitive to that, but I think all comedians live in fear of the silences and talking. That's everyone, I think,' she says. What's certain is that while Sydney has only been doing comedy for a year and a half, she's got the on-stage confidence of a veteran. One question… How? 'I don't get particularly nervous. I just really love it. I just enjoy it. I get massive adrenaline rushes and a huge buzz from doing it,' she says. While many comedians are guilty of endlessly seeking social validation, it's possible Sydney is made of tougher stuff. Generally speaking. 'I'm not going to say it's more difficult for me than anybody, because everyone has struggles and challenges in life, but I think I've had to develop a fairly thick skin,' she admits. More Trending Next year, Sydney's goal is Edinburgh. But first she needs to expand her five-minute set. 'There's a lot of comedy related to my blindness, because that's just how life works. But I'm also very, very determined that it will not be the only thing I talk about,' Sydney says. 'There are more aspects to life, and to my life. It's not the only thing to me.' The Comedy Bloomers' LGBTQ New Comedian of the Year grand final will be broadcast on streaming channel OUTFlix on July 31. Follow Sydney on social media here. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: 'My 3-day childbirth hell turned me into a leaking, traumatised animal' MORE: 'Nobody's got $4,500,000': The moment a Beatles legend saved Monty Python MORE: 'Epic' sci-fi series returns to streaming — and four more shows to binge this month
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Endometriosis symptoms you've never heard of as X Factor's Ella Henderson announces diagnosis
The singer opened up about her diagnosis, saying she thought it was all in her head at first Former X-Factor star, Ella Henderson, has opened up about her recent diagnosis, calling it "devastating" but "validating". Talking about her health online, she revealed she shares the same condition as Love Island's Molly Mae and Anton Du Beke's wife, Hannah. The 29-year-old revealed she has been diagnosed with endometriosis - a painful and debilitating condition which affects around 1 in 10 women across the UK. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it. It is most commonly found in the pelvis, around the ovaries, fallopian tubes and lining of the pelvis. This misplaced tissue can cause inflammation, pain and potentially fertility issues. Despite some people knowing the main symptoms such as heavy and painful periods, stomach pain and bloating, there are also signs that people don't know and may brush off as something else. But what are they? Endometriosis symptoms you may not know about Common symptoms include: Pelvic pain Painful periods that interfere with everyday life Heavy menstrual bleeding Pain during or after sex Painful bowel movements/when having a poo Pain when urinating/peeing Difficulty getting pregnant – up to 70% of those with endometriosis will be able to get pregnant naturally Fatigue, with one or more of the above symptoms Symptoms you may not think are endometriosis but could be include: Leg pain Thigh pain Brain fog Bleeding from the bowel Dragging-like sensation around thigh area Rib pain Back pain Depression Diarrhea and/or constipation Hot flushes Shooting pain around bum Nausea Endometriosis 60-second test If you are not sure whether you have 'endo' you can take a 60 second test. You can do this through the Symptom Checker on the Endometriosis UK website. What are the different types of endometriosis? Endometriosis UK states there's 4 different types - and it's possible to have more than one type. The different types refer to the location, amount and depth of endometrial lesions. Peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis - is found mainly on the pelvic peritoneum – a thin film that lines the inner surface of the pelvis and surrounds the pelvic organs. Ovarian endometriosis (endometrioma) – is when endometriosis cysts are found in the ovaries. Deep endometriosis - is found in locations such as the bladder, bowel and recto-vaginal septum (tissue separating the vagina and the rectum). The lesions of endometriosis are at a deeper level than peritoneal (superficial) endometriosis. Extra-pelvic endometriosis - is when endometriosis is found outside of the pelvis, such as the thorax (chest) and caesarean scars.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
This Morning fans left concerned after Dermot O'Leary hits head live on TV
This Morning fans were left concerned for presenter Dermot O'Leary as he hit his head live on air after a beauty segment took an awkward turn on Friday morning This Morning presenter Dermot O'Leary suffered a minor injury live on air today as he presented along first time host, Olivia Attwood. The awkward moment happened towards the end of the show, when the presenting duo attempted to try Katy Perry 's pre-show beauty ritual. Taking to Instagram, the Roar singer revealed that she plunged her face into ice water for 18 seconds. Olivia and Dermot then went ahead and tried this trick, but unfortunately for Dermot, things went terribly wrong. "Ready, 3, 2, 1," he said as the duo held their breath before plunging their heads into the ice water. However, a clanking sound was heard with faint laughter in the background - as Dermot had whacked his head on the rim of the blow. Nonetheless, the former X-Factor host carried on like a champ, and after two seconds, the pair came up for air, as Olivia was left screaming: "OH MY GOD!" "The bowl is so small!" Dermot exclaimed, as Olivia laughed: "Did you hit your head on the rim?" "Yes!" he exclaimed while rubbing his head. "How can we not find bigger bowls than that?! That wasn't worth it!" After the moment, concerned fans took to X, formerly known as Twitter, as one questioned: "Why was Dermot trying to dive into a bowl?" with a second writing: "We're gonna need a bigger bowl..." "#DermotOleary needs to have a check after hitting his head on the rim of the bowl on #thismorning," a third wrote. It was an eventful Friday morning for the This Morning team, as Olivia Attwood took to the sofa for her presenting debut. It comes after regular Friday and summer host Alison Hammond revealed that she'd be taking a break for a few weeks. During Thursday's episode, the Brummy presenter gave Dermot a hug as she said: "See you in September, bye!" At the start of the show, Dermot revealed he was feeling down due to Alison's departure. "I'm sad because it's your last day for the summer! I'm sad because I won't see you next week," he said. Alison replied, "Aw, not sad; be happy for me! Be happy." Dermot started handing Alison individual flowers from the set as she detailed her summer plans. Olivia's role was announced a few weeks ago as she was interviewed by Ben and Cat about her ITV show, Price of Perfection. She commented, "I'm going to be doing a couple of shows in the summer, I'm very excited to be joining you guys. "It's a huge honour. I've obviously grown up watching this show, and being part of the Daytime team with the Loose Women has been the best experience. This just feels like a very natural progression."
The Irish Sun
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
X Factor star Sam Callahan reveals shocking new job and it's worlds away from music
SAM Callahan 's new career is a huge pivot from his rise to fame as a pop star on X Factor. Essex singer appeared on the 5 The X-Factor's Sam Callahan has an interesting new job Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 5 He works as a marksman for a pest control and wildlife management company Credit: Instagram / @itssamcallahan 5 The singer posed with an air rifle to promote his company Credit: Instagram / @itssamcallahan But a recent post on his Instagram revealed that the Sam modeled some of the gear he wears and uses, including a 12ft/lbs air rifle sub. "Putting the @jack_pyke gear to the test, with some great shooting out on the farm today. Good quality 'get up' breeds good performance if you ask me ," Sam captioned the post where he posed in camouflage gear while holding the large rifle. The business is described as "professional and ethical pest control and UK wild game management, carried out using precision rifle methods and "ideal for rural properties across Essex." x factor Along with modelling some of his favourite hunting clothes, Sam also revealed he'd recently partnered with a local butcher to process small game, such as rabbit, pigeon or partridge among others, that he captures through his work. "Proud to be turning pest control into a real food resource and reducing waste whilst helping landowners manage their properties," Sam wrote on the business' Facebook page. Sam also runs another business where he offers mobile car retuning around Essex. But the X Factor alum has not given up on singing entirely and last week performed a set at Bournemouth Pride, where he sang a number of cover songs, including Prince's Purple Rain and Robbie Williams' Rock DJ. Most read in TV Sam has also worked as a personal trainer and a racing car driver, including behind the wheel of a sporty Porsche, on the GT4 Supercup series. As if that all wasn't enough, Sam regularly stars in Christmas pantomimes. Sam Callahan sings You're Beautiful by James Blunt in his X Factor audtion The singer still has a legion of fans thanks to his X Factor fame, as proven by the fact he's able to knock out calendars of Sam was mentored by Louis Walsh on X Factor, but he didn't quite make it to the final on X Factor with a performance of Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls seeing him bow out of the contest. Last year, Sam popped the question to girlfriend, Charlie, a veterinary nurse and the pair will soon tie the knot. 5 Sam appeared on the 2013 series of The X Factor Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 5 Sam has tried many different careers over the years Credit: Instagram / @itssamcallahan
Scottish Sun
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
X Factor star Sam Callahan reveals shocking new job and it's worlds away from music
The singer is a jack of all trades and even races Porsches game man X Factor star Sam Callahan reveals shocking new job and it's worlds away from music Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SAM Callahan's new career is a huge pivot from his rise to fame as a pop star on X Factor. Essex singer Sam appeared on the reality singing series in 2013 and since then has moved into a number of different careers, including a racing car driver. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 5 The X-Factor's Sam Callahan has an interesting new job Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 5 He works as a marksman for a pest control and wildlife management company Credit: Instagram / @itssamcallahan 5 The singer posed with an air rifle to promote his company Credit: Instagram / @itssamcallahan But a recent post on his Instagram revealed that the 31-year-old now works as a marksman for his own company which offers pest control and wildlife management in Essex. Sam modeled some of the gear he wears and uses, including a 12ft/lbs air rifle sub. "Putting the @jack_pyke gear to the test, with some great shooting out on the farm today. Good quality 'get up' breeds good performance if you ask me," Sam captioned the post where he posed in camouflage gear while holding the large rifle. The business is described as "professional and ethical pest control and UK wild game management, carried out using precision rifle methods and "ideal for rural properties across Essex." Along with modelling some of his favourite hunting clothes, Sam also revealed he'd recently partnered with a local butcher to process small game, such as rabbit, pigeon or partridge among others, that he captures through his work. "Proud to be turning pest control into a real food resource and reducing waste whilst helping landowners manage their properties," Sam wrote on the business' Facebook page. Sam also runs another business where he offers mobile car retuning around Essex. But the X Factor alum has not given up on singing entirely and last week performed a set at Bournemouth Pride, where he sang a number of cover songs, including Prince's Purple Rain and Robbie Williams' Rock DJ. Sam has also worked as a personal trainer and a racing car driver, including behind the wheel of a sporty Porsche, on the GT4 Supercup series. As if that all wasn't enough, Sam regularly stars in Christmas pantomimes. Sam Callahan sings You're Beautiful by James Blunt in his X Factor audtion The singer still has a legion of fans thanks to his X Factor fame, as proven by the fact he's able to knock out calendars of himself topless year after year. Sam was mentored by Louis Walsh on X Factor, but he didn't quite make it to the final on X Factor with a performance of Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls seeing him bow out of the contest. Last year, Sam popped the question to girlfriend, Charlie, a veterinary nurse and the pair will soon tie the knot. 5 Sam appeared on the 2013 series of The X Factor Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
