Parenting advice

Subterms

    Latest story

    188 Shares

    Heartbreaking moment Hollyoaks’ Jorgie Porter writhes in agony with pregnancy condition ‘nobody ever talks about’

    by

    HOLLYOAKS star Jorgie Porter has opened up about a painful pregnancy symptom that leaves her in agonizing pain.The 36-year-old who is pregnant with her second child, has been suffering from ‘lightening crotch,’ a symptom that she says ‘no one ever talks about.”Jorgie Porter is pregnant with her second childCredit: Instagram / @themissyporterThe star posted the footage to raise awareness of the little talked about symptom, Lightening CrotchCredit: Instagram / @themissyporterWhile this is not a precise definition the term refers to short sharp pains the pelvis, rectum or vaginal area during pregnancy that can feel like going into labour.Soap star Jorgie uploaded some footage of herself wincing with pain on social media, describing the ordeal as a burst of agony, appearing from out of the blue.She said on her video feed: “Why don’t more women talk about this in pregnancy? Minding my own business, trying to go about my day… then bam! I had totally forgotten all about this. What other pregnancy symptoms did no one warn you about?”In May the Hollyoaks star revealed that she’s expecting her second child with fiancé, Oliver Piotrowski, sharing the news on the ITVbe show, Drama Queens. read more about The couple already have a two-year-old son, Forest who was born in December 2022.The star has spoken candidly in the past about her desire for a large family after she tragically suffered a miscarriage at 14 weeks when she was pregnant with quadruplets in 2021.She later described the pain of losing four babies and the frustration of not having answers. She said: “My miscarriage was the hardest thing I’ve had to go through in my life. None of the doctors knew why it happened. I had four times the hormones, and then afterwards, the feeling of being pregnant never went away. Ollie and I had felt so ready to be parents. I just didn’t understand how it could be taken away.”Most read in ShowbizShe added: “There is no pain like it, and it was the same for Ollie. Some think, ‘It’s the woman’s body’, but that’s not true. If anything, it makes the male partner feel he can’t be upset. So it’s important to talk about it.”The popular actress has played the role of Theresa McQueen on Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks since 2008 and has been part of some pivotal storylines during her time on the show. She left briefly in 2013 to star on ITV, Dancing on Ice but after being eliminated in week one, returned to Hollyoaks again in 2014. Then she left to star on ITV’s I am a Celebrity, Down Under, finishing in 5th place.  In 2017 Jorgie was a contestant on Celebs Go Dating.What is Lightening CrotchLightning crotch’ Is a sharp, shooting pain that starts in the groin and can travel down the thigh, during the latter stages of her pregnancy. The condition typically occurs in the third trimester and while not dangerous, it can be quite uncomfortableWhat does it feel like? A quick, shooting pain through the vagina or pelvic areaA stinging or the feeling of pins and needles in the vagina or pelvisBrief but intense pain that’s very strong, but quicker than a menstrual crampBut it is not to be confused with: Lightning crotch is not the same as round ligament pain, which often occurs in the second trimester due to your uterus growing quickly. Round ligament pain feels more like a dull pain or ache that begins in your lower abdomen and moves out towards your hip bones.Jorgie is already mum to her two year old son, ForestCredit: Instagram / @themissyporterHollyoaks – soaps sexiest moments,Credit: Channel 4Having miscarried when pregnant with quadruplets, Jorgie has spoken of her desire for a big familyCredit: Instagram More

    More stories

    • 263 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Who are John Mayall’s six children? What we know about the blues musician’s kids Gaz, Jason, Tracey, Ben, Zak & Samson

      by

      GODFATHER of the British blues John Mayall has died aged 90.Mayall was surrounded by his family at his home in California where his six children grieve the loss of their father. But who are they and what do we know about them?John Mayall with his wife first wife Pamela and their four children Tracey, Jason, Gary and BenedictCredit: GETTYWho are John Mayall’s six children?Musician John Mayall OBE – whose influential band the Bluesbreakers was a springboard for stars including Eric Clapton – died at his home in California on Monday, 21 July, 2024. Mayall is survived by his six children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, the family statement said.”He is also surrounded with love by his previous wives, Pamela and Maggie, his devoted secretary, Jane, and his close friends,” it added.”We, the Mayall family, cannot thank his fans and long list of band members enough for the support and love we were blessed to experience secondhand over the last six decades.”READ MORE FROM SHOWBIZGaz Mayall is the blues legend eldest sonGarry ‘Gaz’ MayallGarry ‘Gaz’ Mayall is the eldest son of the blues legend John Mayall. He moved to London with his dad in 1962 and he now lives in Kensal Green, West London.Gaz is part of a ska band The Trojans and after a few guest appearances at the Two-Tone club, Oxford Street in 1979, decided to start a club of his own.In summer 1980 he set up Gaz’s Rockin’ Blues; London’s longest running club night. The establishment is said to be a favourite of Meghan Markle growing up.Most read in MusicTo pay homage to the 30th anniversary of the club night, a book called Gaz’s Rockin’ Blues was released.Being the first-born son of a musician came with many benefits. Gaz attended almost every pop & rock festival throughout the sixties as a child.He is been lifelong fan of reggae and began collecting ska records when he was 17-years-old.It is estimated that he owns over 10,000 records.Jason Mayall is the second son of John MayallCredit: InstagramJason MayallJason Mayall, aka ‘The Cumbia Kid’ is a DJ and the director of Smash corporation.Established in 1984, Smash promotes concerts and headline tours with the aim of introducing an array of acts from around the globe to Japanese audiences.Smash’s summer festival began in 1997, and is Asia’s biggest outdoor music event. It is held annually in the mountains of Naeba, Niigata.Jason has also booked several tours for Japanese artists in the UK, namely the amazing Shibusashirazu and formidable Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra shows at Glastonbury. John’s son spends a lot of his time in Colombia championing “Cumbia”, the traditional dance music of Columbia.Musician John Mayall married his second wife Maggie Mayall who was 20 years his juniorTracey MayallTracey Mayall is the daughter of the blues legend, and his first wife Pamela.She shared her father’s love of music and had a particular penchant for robotic dancing.In the early 1980’s Tracey was part of a dance group called Sketch, that was made up of her and Dee and Fritz, the two boys.She later left the group and they renamed themselves Flex.John Mayall’s children have inherited his love of musicCredit: GETTYBenedict MayallBenedict ‘Big Ben’ Mayall is a Nigerian bass player. He is the adopted son of John Mayall and Pamela.Ben occasionally featured in his brothers band The Trojans. His most notable contribution was a reggae song entitled ‘Earth First,’ that was released in 1997.The Bluesbreakers was a training ground for Eric Clapton, Mick Fleetwood and many other superstarsCredit: Associated PressZak MayallZak Mayall is a skateboarder from California. On his Instagram @sk8erdun he shared a heartfelt message following his father’s death.He wrote: “With a heavy heart I say age is just a number but all things must come to an end.”He lived by his own rules rigid and set in his ways from when he was a young adult who was rocketed to stardom until he stepped off the stage 2 years ago. “90 is a number that can’t convey the richness of his life experience, 40 I’ve been along for the ride. “I personally reassured him of his impact on every one of my friends that was his fan as well as on the rest of my enormous family that has blossomed in his legacy. “Goodnight Bluesman 1933 – 2024.”John Mayall continued to perform up to the age of 88Credit: GETTYSamson MayallSamson is John’s youngest son who he shared with his second wife Maggie Parker.Samson’s mum is also a blues musician. In 1978, Maggie met John and joined his backing band. They later married and had two sons together, Samson and his elder brother Zak.READ MORE SUN STORIESSamson shares his birth date with his legendary father. In an extract taken from November 29, 1994 entry in John’s journal he wrote: “My best birthday of 61 years because the decision we’d made was it was to be Samson’s birthday as well.”John Mayall is survived by six children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildrenCredit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Jack Whitehall’s mum and dad reveal star and girlfriend Roxy Horner’s parenting styles in rare insight into home life

      by

      JACK Whitehall’s parents have praised him and girlfriend Roxy Horner for their parenting style.The comedian and model welcomed their first child, daughter Elsie, back in September last year.Jack Whitehall’s parents have praised him and girlfriend Roxy for their parenting methodsCredit: GettyThe loved-up couple welcomed their first child together back in SeptemberCredit: InstagramHilary and Michael have shared an insight into the proud parents and their daughter ElsieCredit: GettyFollowing the birth, the proud parents were seen leaving the exclusive Lindo Wing at St Mary’s in London with their newborn daughter.Jack, 35, and Roxy, 32, look to be the perfect family unit in the occasional glimpses they’ve given fans into their home life, and now his mum Hilary, 62, has confirmed that’s the case.Speaking to The Sun on behalf of easyJet Holidays, she said: “I think Jack and Roxy definitely saw Molly [Jack’s sister] with one baby and having another baby and thought, ‘oh, maybe we should be getting on with it’.”Particularly as Jack is older than Molly. I think he thought slightly being left behind here, we need to crack on.more on jack whitehall“But they’ve taken to it amazingly. Jack and Roxy are amazing parents, much more patient than I ever was. There’s a lot of singing, a lot of dancing.“They’ve just been on holiday as well. I think there was some beach work, eating sand, all of that.”Jack and Roxy met while Jack was on a trip to Australia in 2020 and they ended up isolating together in London during the coronavirus pandemic.The following year Roxy was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and she has since called Jack her “rock” for helping her deal with the diagnosis.Most read in ShowbizEssex-born Roxy has modelled for a number of known brands, including Boohoo, Superdry and Boux Avenue.The couple announced they were expecting their first child on Instagram in May 2023, sharing a black and white snap of their scan pictures.Netflix are very pleased with our new show – we’ll do a series 2, reveals Jack Whitehall’s dad MichaelThis September the family will appear in Fatherhood with my Father, which focuses on Jack and his dad Michael’s relationship as well as the impending birth.Michael, 84, said: “I think we’ll try and squeeze as much toothpaste from the tube on that one. I mean, on the fatherhood thing, there was travelling was involved.”So the fatherhood series is sort of like Travels with my Father, except it’s a little bit more themed and more focused on sort of documentary and imparting information as well. And Netflix seemed very pleased about it.”So I wouldn’t be surprised if we might have our arms twisted to do a second series of it, but we’ll wait and see what happens to the first one.”Michael’s built up a somewhat fearsome reputation as a talent agent in a former life and his stern, no-nonsense demeanour followed him into his own television career.But in the family home, Hilary revealed her husband has a softer side and the nickname ‘Grandpa Chocolate’.She said: “He’s an old softie with the grandchildren. Oh my God, they’ve got him wrapped around their little fingers.”One big grin and a sort of giggle and he’s putty in their hands. I kept saying, where is this ruthless man that everybody knows from the travel series? Not when the grandchildren are concerned.”While he might be mellow with the grandkids, Michael is anything but when it comes to bad beach etiquette.This summer, he and Hilary have become Beach Rangers to tackle ‘beach botherers’. Alarmingly, 94 percent of 2,000 Brits polled reported having their beach relaxation ruined by poor beach etiquette in the past, whether it’s from loud portable speakers, intrusive drones, stag parties or vain social media poseurs.Michael said: “Nothing spoils a holiday faster than bad beach etiquette. Whether it’s shaking sand from towels everywhere or treating the beach like their own private nightclub, we’ve seen these issues all over the world. READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s time to put a stop to them. As Beach Rangers, Hilary and I are here to educate tourists on the common courtesies and basic do’s and don’ts of beach etiquette to ensure everyone enjoys a great beach holiday this summer. And remember, don’t feed the seagulls. It never ends well.”   Hilary and Michael Whitehall are Beach Rangers this summer with easyJet HolidaysCredit: Will Ireland More

    • 188 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Elizabeth Jagger snogs mystery man on date at pub after split from film producer husband

      by

      ELIZABETH Jagger is back on the dating scene after secretly ­splitting from her husband of five years Christopher Behlau.The daughter of The Rolling Stones’ frontman Mick was spotted snogging a mystery bloke as she enjoyed a pint at a boozer last week.Elizabeth Jagger was spotted snogging a mystery blokeCredit: BackGridThe pair were seen enjoying a pint at a boozer last weekCredit: BackGridThe daughter of Mick Jagger secretly ­split from her husband of five years Christopher BehlauCredit: GettyElizabeth, 40 — who was last seen in public with film producer Chris, 42, last summer — was not wearing her wedding ring while smooching with her new man.The model and her date, who resembles Sir Mick’s bandmate Ronnie Wood, were spotted at a table outside the pub in the King’s Road in Chelsea, West London.An onlooker said: “Lizzie and her new man seemed totally engrossed in one another.“They were sitting in the sun outside a pub and couldn’t keep their hands off each other.READ MORE IN SHOWBIZ“Lizzy looked so happy and was laughing really loudly at everything he said. She was loving life.“They were kissing and hugging and didn’t seem to mind who could see them.” The pair spent an hour at the boozer before wandering to a nearby Waitrose.The onlooker added: “Lizzie still had her pint with her. She necked it after realising she couldn’t take it in to the shop with her. She was laughing her head off.”Elizabeth married Chris in 2019 and they have a son, Eugene, who was born in 2020.Most read in CelebrityChris is known for his producing work on documentaries Althea in 2014, Tiger Tiger (2015) and Overland (2020).The couple were last seen together in public last summer in London at Sir Mick’s 80th birthday party and at a British Vogue event.Mick Jagger’s daughter Jade, 51, leaves court after being let off with fine over drunken clash that injured cop in IbizaElizabeth is the eldest of the rocker’s four children with his model ex-wife Jerry Hall.She has a close bond with the Paint It Black singer, who on Sunday played the final night of the Stones’ epic Hackney Diamonds Tour in North America.Her new man may be anxious he gets Sir Mick’s seal of approval too, after she admitted he could be tough on suitors when she brought them home as a teenager.“He would do that look — the dad look,” she once explained. “But nothing too bad.Mick with daughter Elizabeth pictured in 2011Credit: Getty – Contributor“Luckily most of my boyfriends were quite cool with the whole thing. I would have hated to go out with anyone who was, like, ‘Oh wow, there’s your father’.” Elizabeth became a model aged 16 and left school after her GCSEs for a career on the catwalk.She said of her decision to follow in her mum Jerry’s footsteps: “I’ve learned more about life than my friends did being at school.“I’ve met more interesting people and I feel more grown up.“I’m the only one who’s gone out into the world.”READ MORE SUN STORIESDuring her modelling career, Elizabeth has posed for brands including Lancôme, Marks & Spencer and Mango.She is also an activist and supports the women’s equality campaign Equal Means Equal.Elizabeth was not wearing her wedding ring while smooching with her new manCredit: BackGridThe pair, seen kissing, were seen outside a pub on the King’s Road in Chelsea, LondonCredit: BackGridAn onlooker said Elizabeth and her man ‘couldn’t keep their hands off each other’Credit: BackGrid More

    • 163 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Olly Murs reveals secret perk of becoming a dad for the first time

      by

      AFTER welcoming baby daughter Madison with wife Amelia Tank in April, Olly Murs has been embracing his new role as a dad.But as well as the sleepless nights, dirty nappies and learning to get his Tommee Tippee bottles in a row, the Marry Me singer is enjoying a sexier side to fatherhood — being a Dilf.Olly Murs is embracing fatherhoodCredit: GettyOlly has been hanging out with new dad Joel DommettCredit: GettyThe term — which stands for Dad I’d Like to F*** — is a label Olly is comfortable with after hanging out with new dad Joel Dommett and father-of-four Joe Wicks.I caught up with Olly in an exclusive chat at Flackstock, the festival in memory of Caroline Flack in Berkshire.He told me: “I was chatting today with Joel, whose baby is ten months old, and Joe, who has a six- week-old.“I’m sort of in that ballpark now. We’re like a little Dilf club.”READ MORE ON OLLY MURSOpening up about headlining the show, Olly also paid tribute to TV presenter Caroline, who he was close friends with.Olly said: “In all the gigs I’ve done in my career, this is probably the toughest.“I’m excited to be doing this for Caroline and her family but I sort of wish we weren’t doing this.”Denise Van Outen also played a DJ set at the event, which raises money for charities Mind, Samaritans and Charlie Waller Trust, as well as humanitarian organisation Choose Love.Most read in BizarrePaying tribute to Caroline, Denise told me: “Even driving here I did feel a bit emotional because you get so caught up that it’s a festival and then you suddenly remember there’s a real meaning behind this one for all of us, as we all knew Caroline.Watch the moment emotional Olly Murs returns to stage just 48 hours after baby’s birth and tells crowd ‘it’s my first show as a daddy’“I was in the car thinking, ‘I wish she could see what everybody’s doing’.“I’ve got two teenagers with me — obviously one is my daughter — but I was explaining to them what the festival is in aid of because I think it’s really important to discuss with young people so they totally understand that you can speak to someone if you’re feeling bad mentally.“For me, more than anything, that is the reason this is a festival I really wanted my daughter to come to because I think it’s important they have an understanding.“It’s the one festival you wish wasn’t happening.“But it is, so we make it brilliant for her and for everybody else that needs the support.”Murs has also befriended father-of-four Joe WicksCredit: AlamyJade’s flying highJADE THIRLWALL is going all out on her first solo album and has enlisted the help of Mike Sabath, the producer behind Raye’s six-time Brit Award-winning My 21st Century Blues.The Little Mix star, who is hoping to hit the Top Ten with debut single Angel Of My Dreams on Friday, said: “I did a lot of speed-dating producers and writers to try and find my own people. In the band there was such a formula, so I tried to push myself with new people.”Jade Thirlwall is going all out on her first solo albumCredit: GettyShe has also written tracks with Raye and Tove Lo for the album.Credit where its DuaBEING one of the hardest-working women in music has certainly paid off for Dua Lipa.I’ve learned she made almost £1million a week in the 12 months to March 2023, with her company, Radical22 Live LLP, turning over £51.6million.Dua Lipa made almost £1million a week in the 12 months to March 2023Credit: EPAAfter expenses, the New Rules singer netted £21.7million, which means £59,000 a day was left in the coffers.The numbers make her one of Britain’s highest-earning musicians, only eight years after launching her career.The figures, filed at Companies House, reflect the ticket and merch sales of her Future Nostalgia world tour.Dua’s latest earnings will massively boost her fortune after she was ranked 21st in The Sunday Times Rich List For Under-35s last year, with an estimated £75million.She is now on a break following a busy summer of shows, including a headline set at Glastonbury.But she will tour Asia in November before two sell-out gigs at Wembley Stadium next June.Fancy lending me a quid or two, Dua?Eminem among top artistsHE landed his 11th No1 album on Friday, but now Eminem has something else to celebrate, too.Today, he becomes the latest artist to receive a Brit Billion Award from the BPI.The accolade is given to those who reach one billion career streams.So far it has been handed out 39 times – and Eminem now joins acts including Queen, Green Day, The Rolling Stones and ABBA.Blake and Gigi are Marvel-lousBLAKE Lively and Gigi Hadid dressed the parts for the New York premiere of Marvel superhero flick Deadpool & Wolverine.Gossip Girl star Blake wore red to channel Deadpool, played by her husband Ryan Reynolds.Gigi Hadid and Blake Lively dressed the parts for the New York premiere of Marvel’s Deadpool & WolverineCredit: GettyRyan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman with Madonna on the red carpetCredit: GettyWhile model Gigi dazzled in a yellow outfit inspired by Wolverine, played by Hugh Jackman.Brit Emma Corrin, who also stars in the film – which hits cinemas tomorrow – was bewitching in a black leotard and fur.Ryan and Hugh posed with Madonna, who allowed her 1989 hit Like A Prayer to feature in the film – but only after a visit from its stars.Ryan said: “It was a big deal to ask and a bigger deal to use it.“We met with her and showed how it was being used.”Blake kissing hubby Ryan while he is dressed up as DeadpoolCredit: InstagramRyan and Hugh on the set of the new Deadpool filmCredit: APKieran? Hayl noIT made me chuckle when I saw that The Crown’s Matt Smith had kicked up a stink over appearing on set with Kieran Hayler.Matt was said to have demanded Katie Price’s stripper ex be edited out of scenes they featured in for TV drama The Death Of Bunny Munro.The Crown’s Matt Smith has kicked up a stink over appearing on set with Kieran HaylerCredit: GettyMatt was said to have demanded Kieran be edited out of The Death Of Bunny Munro scenesCredit: The Mega AgencySources close to the former Dr Who star said he was “embarrassed” that Kieran, who was an extra, was on screen at the same time as him –  albeit for a split second.Now, having spoken to Kieran I can’t help but feel sorry for him.He signed up to an extras agency a couple of months ago and landed the very minor part in the background as Matt drove past him on Brighton seafront.Kieran, who has two children with Katie, told me: “I’m not embarrassed, I’m more hurt somebody like that would say something when they don’t even know me.“For him to say what he has apparently said . . . It doesn’t give much hope to young actors. “I’m probably in 0.5 seconds of a scene with him.“For me, it’s like, f***ing hell! “It’s like bullying. It’s mean. “Everybody should support each other.”Production crews reportedly had no idea who Kieran was.His previous credits include four gigs on EastEnders, where he played a stripper.Poor old Kieran.This is certainly up there with one of the strangest showbiz feuds.Kieran Hayler with his ex Katie PriceCredit: GettyAnne and Bandit’s new babyHAVING topped the charts for nine weeks with their 2016 collaboration Rockabye, Clean Bandit and Anne-Marie have teamed up again.They have been back in the studio working on follow-up track Cry Baby, along with David Guetta.Clean Bandit and Anne-Marie have teamed up againCredit: SuppliedAnd that title is something Anne-Marie knows all about, given this will be her first single since she gave birth to her daughter earlier this year.Anne-Marie and the trio – Grace Chatto and brothers Jack and Luke Patterson – posed for this quirky snap, above, on the set of the video, which I’m told is a feast for the eyes.Speaking about the track, which is expected to be released this summer, Grace said: “I can’t express in words how much Cry Baby means to me. “It came out delicate, playful and soft, despite the song’s deep pain.“It still makes me cry sometimes when I listen to it, four years on from when we started it.“I’m so grateful it is going to finally be out in the world.”Vick’s Cal palVICK HOPE looked glowing as she posed for a rare photo with husband Calvin Harris.The pair, who tied the knot last year, are notoriously private about their romance.Vick Hope beams in a rare picture with hubby Calvin HarrisCredit: instagram/vicknhopeBut Radio 1 DJ Vick shared this snap of her grinning from ear to ear when she joined him backstage as he performed in Ibiza on the weekend.Ten months on from their wedding, these two are still in the honeymoon phase.Celine on track for OlympicsSHE hasn’t performed live in four years but it looks like Celine Dion will make her grand return at Friday’s Olympic opening ceremony.I exclusively revealed last month how the superstar had received a formal offer to be part of the showstopper in Paris – and now she has been spotted there.It looks like Celine Dion will make her grand return at Friday’s Olympic opening ceremonyCredit: SplashIf Celine does make it to the microphone, it will be her first performance since she was diagnosed with stiff person syndrome, which has left her struggling to sing and move.But she isn’t the only big name set to appear.Lady Gaga was spotted returning to a hotel in the city on Monday, following a rehearsal for the ceremony.In 2018 movie A Star Is Born, she covered Edith Piaf’s La Vie En Rose – so she may well perform that.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, one of France’s most successful living artists, David Guetta, is unlikely to feature.He is scheduled to DJ in Valencia on Thursday, and then Ibiza the next day, when the ceremony is taking place. More

    • 175 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Christine McGuinness drops another hint she’s found love again after ‘mystery partner’ was revealed

      by

      CHRISTINE McGuinness has dropped another hint she’s found love again with a sweet holiday snap.The mum of three – who is separated from TV presenter husband Paddy, 50 – shared an image showing her mid-cheers as she clinked glasses with a companion.Christine McGuinness has dropped another hint she’s found love again after her mystery partner was revealedCredit: InstagramChristine, 36, recently returned from a sun-soaked trip to IbizaCredit: InstagramHer vacation pal Roxxxan posted a snap from a similar-looking hotel roomCredit: instagram/@rotriplexThe mum of three gushed ‘I love my life’ as she raised a cheers with a palCredit: InstagramIn her upbeat Instagram caption Christine, 36, gushed: “I love my life.”The model recently returned from a sun-soaked trip from Ibiza where she posed topless by the pool.During the holiday to the White Isle, she dropped the first hint she had jetted away with a love interest.Her vacation pal was then revealed as Roxxxan – with the pair posting a fun snap showing them donning matching red Adidas trainers.read christine mcguinnessNow Christine, who split with Max and Paddy star Paddy in 2022 after 11 years of marriage, has hinted she’s in her next happy chapter.She uploaded her image of wine glasses to her Instagram Stories with the words: “I have so much more to show you!”I’ve been working on staying present and really taking in the special moments in life so a lot of my posts are not in real time but, I want to share, to say thank you out loud, to acknowledge and appreciate my blessings always.”The star has since touched down on home turf.Most read in CelebrityShe vowed how her next trip would “not be as chilled as this.”Eagle-eyed fans were quick to spot Christine’s pal Roxxxan appearing to be staying in the same hotel.Christine McGuinness looks incredible in figure-hugging satin dress at glitzy F1 event She took to social media to share snaps of her tattooed legs in a similar-looking ensuite.In 2022 Christine and ex-husband Paddy shocked fans when they revealed they were splitting.The former couple share three young children and still live together at their £2.1m Cheshire mansion.Christine recently exclusively told The Sun of relishing her single status.She said: “People are kind of, ‘Oh, you must be out there having fun and going on dates and having a great time’, but I’m thinking, ‘No, I’ve got time for myself for the first time’.“I don’t need to tell anyone where I’m going or what I’m doing. “That is so freeing and something that I’m not sure I want to give away again.”Christine has treated fans to a selection of snaps from her trip to the White IsleCredit: InstagramShe told fans she was trying to be more mindfulCredit: Instagram / @mrscmcguinness More

    • 275 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      I was set for Tess Daly’s job on Strictly but ‘settled down’ instead… good on Maya Jama for putting her career first

      by

      IN the week it was announced that women are, on average, leaving it til they’re 35 to start a family, it’s little wonder the rumour mill is going at full pelt that the reason Maya Jama and Stormzy have split is because at 29, she’s not ready to settle down yet.I vividly recall Lily Allen’s candid admission: “My children ruined my career.  In terms of pop stardom, totally ruined it”. This week, Stormzy and Maya Jama announced that they had split for the final timeCredit: GettyIt has been reported that while Stormzy wanted to settle down, Maya was not readyCredit: InstagramUlrika understands why Lily Allen said that having her kids ruined her careerCredit: AFPUlrika had to fight with producers to keep her job on Gladiators when she fell pregnantCredit: RexThere is no doubt she loves her children, but the point she was making on behalf of all working women was that she paid a price for having children, professionally.And she’s not the only one. I had to fight tooth and nail to retain my job as co-host of Gladiators when I fell pregnant in 1994.  It was our third series and the producers and makers of the show considered a pregnant woman “too high risk”. In the end, the compromise was that they refused to let me host the last two weeks of international shows and they employed a midwife to follow me around with a chair so I could sit down between takes.READ MORE FROM ULRIKA I wasn’t ill. I was just six months pregnant.Ten years later I was asked if I was interested in hosting a programme that was about to launch on BBC1 called ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.  I was keen as mustard but I was pregnant and would have been a few weeks away from giving birth when filming would have taken place.So, I had no choice but to turn it down, which was heartbreaking.  My husband at the time would not have needed to turn down any work because he wasn’t the one who was pregnant.Most read in CelebrityYou don’t have to be in showbiz to be faced with the dilemma of working out when is the right time to pause work and start a family.Because there is NO right time.Maya Jama looks incredible in very sexy sheer dress as she spotted for first time after announcing Stormzy splitShe had to turn down the chance to host Strictly as she was pregnant at the timeCredit: PA:Press AssociationTess Daly and the late Bruce Forsyth ended up fronting the iconic showCredit: BBCWhenever you choose, there will be compromises that have to be made. Granted, they’re all for the greater good in the long run but it doesn’t take away from the fact that any woman doing any job will – at some point – have to down tools and take a break.  A break, incidentally, which isn’t a break at all because you’re putting on three stone; end up with piles, sore nipples; you can’t sit for a week or sleep for the next five years and on top of which, returning to work becomes a whole new game.As women, if we take any extended time ‘off work’, we risk falling behind on promotions or being considered for other roles.  That is, if your employer hasn’t already written you off and cleared your desk by the time you go back. It’s hardly the most relaxing, reassuring prospect or time of any woman’s life.If you rush back to the office before the placenta has even come out (some women are quite, quite capable of this – not me), you’re judged for being a cold-hearted, unmotherly, ambitious, career-driven b***h.So, you see, we just can’t win.Shock and surpriseAt 29, Maya Jama’s ovaries must be screaming out to house a little baby Jama – they’re in their prime and as all women know, it’s downhill after 35 when it comes to fertility.I won’t be the only one who greeted the news of Maya’s and Stormzy’s break-up with an equal measure of shocking surprise and abject disappointment.I had everything crossed for them and really hoped they would make it work second time around despite the anecdotal evidence to the contrary which has stared us in the face over the years.Ulrika was hopeful that Stormzy and Maya would be able to work it out this timeCredit: GettyMaya is making loads of money and has a ton of brand dealsCredit: InstagramMore often than not, after that initial, palpable joy and relief of a reunion, things tend to settle down only for one or both parties to realise that fundamentally nothing has really changed. People always revert to type and to their old habits – the very ones that broke the other’s hearts in the first place.It’s either that, or one person has changed enough to realise that, despite thinking they really wanted the other, they no longer actually need them.  The virtue of the first split, of course, is that you learn to live without each other and once you realise you can do that, life takes on a completely different meaning.Balance of powerI kinda felt it in my waters that Maya and Stormzy would get back together – they seemed so right for one another; they looked so right for each other but also because I know just how good reuniting feels.  For a while, anyway.But scratch the surface and – as an outsider looking in – I think it’s become clear that the balance of power between this golden couple has doubtlessly shifted. Significantly.Being the strong, independent woman that she is, Maya picked herself up and dusted herself off and, in no time, high-profile work soon came flooding in. She even found herself a fiancé in the States at one point and I wondered if she might leave these shores forever.That relationship wasn’t to be either. So, she cracked on with life. And with work – building up her profile on and off screen. She’s the face of Dolce & Gabanna; ambassador for Rimmel London and is said to be wanted by Netflix. Not to mention becoming the host of Love Island….. and who knows if it was that that brought her and Stormzy back together.It seems from their mutual statement about this final break-up that it is truly amicable and there is clearly – without a shadow of a doubt – a great deal of love between the former couple.I’m guessing a lot of healing went on behind the scenes, and it might just be that despite there only being a one-year age gap between them, they have discovered they are at different stages of their life.If, if, if it’s true that he was ready to settle down but she wasn’t – you can totally see why.Because, no matter how far we’ve come on our quest for equality between the sexes; no matter how much we try to make things fairer and more just for women; and no matter how much work we put into levelling the playing field, starting a family will always penalise a woman more.Of course, Maya Jama may not want to have kids at all. And that’s her choice and hers alone. She may not feel the need; she may not have those bonkers, maternal cravings some of us have.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhatever her choices are and turn out to be, there will doubtless be judgement or conflict or compromise. Because that’s what it’s like to be a woman.It had become clear that the balance of power between the couple had significantly shiftedCredit: SplashMaya is now one of the most sought after women on TVCredit: GettyMaya and Stormzy’s relationship timeline More

    • 238 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Abbey Clancy and Kerry Katona break down in tears as Atomic Kitten singer reveals her lowest moment in rehab

      by

      KERRY Katona has opened up about how one of her most traumatic memories stopped her from hitting rock bottom in rehab.The TV personality, 43, has had a troubled past and got emotional as she delved into it on Abbey Clancy’s podcast.Kerry Katona broke down in tears as she opened up about a painful memoryCredit: @exhibitashow / YoutubeThe pop singer had to go to rehab after struggling with drug issues and depressionCredit: GettySpeaking on Exhibit A, she told the English model about her most heartbreaking memory.Kerry said: “Watching my mum slit her wrist. I can get emotional and upset about it now I’m older.”Later on in life the Atomic Kitten singer spent a stint of six weeks in rehab for depression, as well as alcohol and drug abuse.She admits that at the time she was so low she thought about self harming too, but it was the thought of her children that stopped her.read more in celebrityKerry realised that seeing her mum struggle in that way affected her when she was young, and didn’t want her own daughters to have the same experience.She told Abbey: “I remember sitting in rehab and I couldn’t believe I let myself get so low.”I kept thinking if this is in my DNA and if it is a genetic thing.”The one thing I never want my kids to feel is unloved or not wanted by me, because that’s how I felt. Most read in Celebrity”So I thought if this is something that I might end up doing, I got Molly and Lilly tattooed on my wrist because I thought I’d be so selfish to put my kids through that no matter what’s going on my life.”Both women broke down in tears at the difficult admission.Kerry Katona reunites with fiance Ryan Mahoney as she moves back into their home after time apartAfter her appearance on the podcast, Kerry went on to clarify: “I loved doing this with podcast Abbey but I do want to make it very clear I love my mum with all my heart and she too had no help and she’s made me who I am today.”I really hope you get some hope an inspiration from this amazing podcast.”Followers flooded to the comments to share how much they appreciated her vulnerability in sharing something that personal.One person wrote: “She is a total inspiration @kerrykatona7 u are a brilliant mum and should be so proud of yourself.”Another agreed: “Well done for speaking about it, you’re so brave and strong and an inspiration to others especially your babies.” More

    • 238 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Inside shamed Graziano di Prima’s life before shock Strictly axe… From twin’s tragic death to bold proposal to wife

      by

      HE left Strictly amid a storm of controversy but Graziano Di Prima’s life before the sequins and sparkle was far from ordinary.The 30-year-old’s early years were marred by poverty and tragedy – including a near-death experience at birth and the loss of his twin brother. Production staff were reportedly ‘in tears’ over Zara’s treatment backstageCredit: BBCZara was partnered with Graziano last year and says she ‘wrestled with fear of speaking out’Credit: BBCWannabe dancers train for up to 12 hours at Italian dance school Team DiabloCredit: GoogleAs he grew up, Graziano faced bullying due to his long hair and passion for dancing. But he overcame these adversities to achieve success on the international stage, married the woman of his dreams and landed his coveted role on Strictly. Now, insiders are questioning whether his career can recover from damning claims he hit, spat and kicked his former dance partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals.Graziano was sacked hours after BBC bosses watched video footage of their time backstage – which reportedly reduced production staff to tears. READ MORE IN FEATURESAfter another video emerged of Zara seemingly “passed out” backstage, the 27-year-old Love Island star responded in a lengthy statement and said she was “scared to speak up”.The revelations will come as a huge blow to his beloved mother, who he once referred to as his “best friend forever”. He often posted pics of his devoted mum on Instagram and tells how she supported him in realising his dreams of becoming a professional dancer. She also nursed him back to health when he nearly died at birth.  Most read in Celebrity”I was born seven weeks early and my brother didn’t make it,” Graziano revealed. “They thought I was dead too at first because I wasn’t breathing. In Italian, the name Graziano means ‘grateful’ and my mum chose that name because I was lucky to have survived.” Graziano Di Prima has been dramatically axed as allegations of abuse arise Humble beginnings As his family mourned the loss of his twin brother, he spent weeks in hospital for premature babies. He was “skinny” and always suffering from fevers.And his mother is now at his side again as he is in “bits” over his recent sacking. “He is being monitored 24/7 by his wife Giada and mum who has moved in to take care of him,” a source revealed. Graziano di Prima as a childCredit: Instagram/GrazianodiprimaGraziano di Prima often shares pictures of his beloved mum on InstagramCredit: Instagram/GrazianodiprimaHis mum is reportedly taking care of him along with his wife GiadaCredit: Instagram/GrazianodiprimaThe Italian proposed to his wife Giada during the Burn The Floor dance tour performance in Watford in 2019Credit: GettyUnlike many celebrities who have glamorous upbringings, Graziano grew up in a Sicilian vineyard and was driving a tractor by the age of six. While most of his peers were destined for agricultural lives, young Graziano aspired to make it on the big stage.”My parents worked on the land all day for a humble income,” he revealed, admitting that he “never” had enough money for luxuries like fashionable trainers. I nearly died at birth and my brother didn’t make itGraziano Di Prima “My mum would never buy me Nike shoes. She would say: ‘We [have to] save money for dancing!'” But he “understood the sacrifice” and always helped his family on the farm from a very early age.School was tough for Sicily’s Billy Elliott – he was “bullied” over his long hair and love for dancing. “Some competitions were a 12-hour car ride away,” he explained.  “I was living two lives. At school, I was just a normal kid but outside, I was dreaming about dancing.”Tough trainingRemarkably, Graziano and Giovanni Pernice – who has also left Strictly under a cloud this year – come from the same part of Italy and both attended Europe’s biggest dance school, Team Diabo. Giovanni – whose celeb pairings have included Amanda Abbington, Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore –  was dropped from the hit BBC show amid a flurry of bullying stories. My mum would never buy me Nike shoes…we saved money for dancingGraziano Di PrimaAfter gruelling rehearsals with Giovanni, reports suggest that Sherlock actress Amanda experienced mild post-traumatic stress disorder. Determined to pursue careers as professional dancers, the pair left their families behind on the island of Sicily in their youth to train at a prestigious dance studio near Bologna in northern Italy, Team Diablo.The academy has been criticised for creating a toxic environment, where students are pushed to dance for up to 12 hours a day and are encouraged to dangerously lose weight.Former Strictly professional Joanne Clifton, who won the Glitterball trophy with broadcaster Ore Oduba in the 2016 series, revealed that she was hospitalised after being part of the academy.The Team Diablo School of Dance in Bologna trained both dancersCredit: Chris Warde-Jones/Telegraph SyndicationInstructor Anna Mafus (left) with pupils Amielle Tutelman (right in red) and Alessandro Laineri practice at the Academy where both Gio and Graziano trainedCredit: Chris Warde-Jones/Telegraph Syndication“The problem was there were too many dancers — including me — who thought being skinny was good,” she said. “As well as doing my best to limit my intake of pizza and pasta, and drinking up to ten espressos a day, I cut out meat, which led to me being hospitalised with anaemia.“That feeling of low energy was horrendous and impacted on my training. For a period of four months, I remember collapsing unexplainably — my body was telling me to change something.”A Team Diablo staff member denied students are pushed too hard, but said competition prep was not taken lightly. Monica Cinti, secretary to the director, told The Sun: “Teaching methods are not harsh, but require serious preparation.”Graziano Di Prima – Strictly statement in FULLGRAZIANO Di Prima has addressed his Strictly Come Dancing sacking with a statement on social media – see the details below.In a statement shared to his Instagram page Graziano wrote: “I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.”Respecting the BBC HR process, I understand it’s best for the show that I step away.”He continued: “While there are aspects of this story involving external influences that I can’t discuss at this time, I remain committed to being strong for my family and friends.”I wish the Strictly family and the BBC nothing but success in the future.”He concluded the post: “I also want to thank everyone who has supported my career, both professionally and personally. When the time is right, I will share my story.”Strictly breakAfter leaving Team Diablo school – which has 11,000 members –  Graziano forged a successful career as a professional dancer.In 2018, he joined the Strictly line-up as the partner of radio DJ Vick Hope.He did not have a celebrity partner for two years but stayed on the show. He danced with comedian Judi Love in 2021 and a year later was paired with actress Kym Marsh, and reached the quarter-finals.Last year, he was teamed with TV presenter Zara, but the pair were eliminated in week six of the dance competition. An old video has since emerged of Zara seemingly passed out which Graziano allegedly took and shared on his Instagram story. The caption of the clip reads: “She asked me 5 minutes break,” accompanied by a shocked face emoji as the camera zooms in.The video was recorded just a few days before the pair were eliminated and Zara had reshared the clip shortly after it was posted and seemed to make light of the situation.I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from StrictlyGraziano Di Prima He was scheduled to be in the line-up this year but after his shock departure he’s reportedly fled the UK. “I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime,” he said in a bombshell statement. “While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it’s only right for the sake of the show that I step away. “I am saddened that I wasn’t allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation. “There’s more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future.”Zara was pictured collapsed on the floorCredit: InstagramZara spoke out about the ‘distressing’ treatment in a postCredit: InstagramBold proposal His loyal wife, fellow Italian Giada Lini, 34, who has danced as a professional on the Italian version of Strictly, is believed to be at her husband’s side but has not issued a statement. The pair have been together for nearly ten years and tied the knot in 2022 at the 14th century Castle of Falconara, in Sicily, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.Graziano proposed to Giada on stage during the Burn The Floor dance tour performance in Watford in 2019. Former Strictly dancer Oti Mabuse revealed the happy event to her Instagram followers and Kevin Clifton was also there. Giada told Hello! Magazine if she was concerned about ‘Italian Stallion’ Graziano falling prey to ‘the Strictly curse’.I’m alone in this big new world and I need herGraziano Di PrimaShe said: “I come from the same background so I understand that if you dance together you have to be very close. I’m not jealous of that.”READ MORE SUN STORIESGraziano previously described Giada as his rock, saying: “We love each other so we have to be together. I’m alone in this big new world and I need her.”Right now, he needs her more than ever. Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timelineOctober 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meetingMarch 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bossesHe leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holidayThe BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.Strictly dancer Giovanni Pernice attended the same “toxic” dance school as GrazianoCredit: GettyHis wife Giada Lini is also a dancerCredit: Getty – ContributorZara was allegedly “passed out” backstage during gruelling rehearsalsCredit: PA More