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    Olly Alexander reveals secret ‘super power’ which drove him to success as he prepares to represent the UK at Eurovision

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    YEARS & YEARS’ Olly Alexander is the UK’s most high-profile Eurovision entry in more than a decade.He has had five Top Ten hits, Bafta and Brit nominations and even his own waxwork at Madame Tussauds.Olly Alexander is the UK’s most high-profile Eurovision entry in more than a decadeCredit: PAOlly had five Top Ten singles, Bafta and Brit nominations and even his own waxwork at Madame TussaudsCredit: SplashOlly rehearsing Dizzy at the Second Rehearsal of the Grand Final at Malmo Arena in SwedenCredit: PANow Olly will be competing in the most-watched contest in the world this weekend in Malmo, Sweden, with his song Dizzy.But the road to the final has been a rocky one.The singer has admitted he was driven to perform by relentless bullying as a child — and now wants to inspire other youngsters with his performance, which will be watched by more than 160million people worldwide.Olly said: “At school I was picked on and I just felt like something was wrong with me, like I was just different from other people in a way that was really bad.Read More on Showbiz“People would make fun of me and call me gay even before I had any idea of my sexuality.“But music and performing and drama, like, the weirder you were, the more unique you were. It kind of worked in your favour.“If you stood out, people remembered you, and I’m actually really good at something. I have this secret power. So I really just followed that feeling and I haven’t stopped.”Olly, 33, will deliver a boxing-themed dystopian performance which he promises will be “really gay” in a bid to promote equality on Saturday.Most read in CelebrityDespite already being straight through to the final, you can see him showcase Dizzy in tonight’s first semi-final show, which is broadcast on BBC One at 8pm.And although Olly will only be on stage for three minutes, he started rehearsals on a slanted stage two months ago with his team of four dancers.Olly Alexander teases new EuroVision entry song The song was created with top producer Danny L Harle, 34, who recently co-wrote much of Dua Lipa’s new album.And although Olly will only be on stage for three minutes, he started rehearsals on a slanted stage two months ago with his team of four dancers.He said: “The power that has — the TV going out into living rooms across the world — feels really big.“You know, for a lot of people, it’s not safe for them to be themselves, not safe for them to express their sexuality. I’m really lucky that I can, and I can do that in this really big, bold way.”UK commentator Graham Norton thinks that will do wonders for his chances, although Baby Lasagna for Croatia is the favourite to win.Graham said: “Having a bona fide pop star representing the UK this year is a great start.“Olly has already done all the things that it’s impossible to prepare someone for.“He has played to huge crowds, he can relate to the cameras and he is used to high-pressure situations.“Add to that the fact the song is a massive bop, and I think we could do really well this year.”But despite it being an occasion of bonkers, brilliant and beautiful pop, this year’s contest has run into geopolitical controversy due to Israel taking part.Many fans have called for their entry to be disqualified because of the conflict in Gaza, maintaining they should suffer the same fate as Russia, which has been excluded since 2022 after the invasion of Ukraine.But the acts themselves are now facing abuse for not withdrawing from the contest in solidarity with Palestine, with campaigners even picketing a performance from Olly in London last month.Eurovision bit
    DESPITE it being 50 years since ABBA won with Waterloo, when the contest was staged in Brighton, the four members won’t be reuniting on stage at the final.
    But the contest’s scriptwriter Edward af Sillen has teased there will be a treat for fans.
    He told the official Eurovision podcast: “We have a surprise coming up for the final, which I can’t get into now.
    “If you know Sweden and you know ABBA, you know you can’t get the four of them together again.”

    In a new BBC documentary, Olly Alexander’s Road To Eurovision, the singer cried as he explained: “A lot of the contestants and myself have been having a lot of comments that are like, ‘You are complicit in a genocide by taking part in Eurovision’. Which is quite extreme . . . it’s very extreme. I understand where that sentiment is coming from but I think it’s not correct.“It’s an incredibly complicated political situation, one that I’m not qualified to speak on.“The backdrop to this is actual immense suffering. It’s like a humanitarian crisis, a war, you know? And it just so happens there’s a song contest going on at the same time, that I’m a part of.“Eurovision is meant to be an apolitical contest but that’s like a fantasy.”As a left-wing, gay pop star, the woke generation would usually support Olly, but many of them have even turned on him.He added: “I deleted all my social media because the comments are just so insane. There’s a lot of love and support but there’s a lot of . . . they are brutal.”More than 20,000 protesters are expected to picket events in the lead-up to the final this week in Malmo, and Olly has been given a private security team as a precaution.The Israeli act, Eden Golan, 20, has been warned not to leave her hotel room other than for her performance.‘Brutal comments’And the terror threat is now so high that Swedish police have asked for help from neighbouring countries Denmark and Norway.All bags of any size have been banned from Malmo Arena and drone-mounted cameras will be used to monitor crowds.But Olly is keeping his head down and powering on, as he has done throughout his time in the spotlight. He formed his band Years & Years in 2010 with mates Mikey Goldsworthy and Emre Turkmen.They had huge hits such as Shine and King on their 2015 debut album, Communion.The Israeli act, Eden Golan has been warned not to leave her hotel room other than for her performanceCredit: AFPThe terror threat is now so high that Swedish police have asked for help from neighbouring countries Denmark and NorwayCredit: EPABut the trio faced creative differences making their 2018 follow-up Palo Santo and in 2021 it was announced his bandmates had quit and he was continuing the band as a solo project.Olly then went on to acting, playing Ritchie Tozer in 2021’s Channel 4 drama It’s A Sin.The heart-wrenching series, following a group of gay men during the HIV/AIDS crisis in London, was critically acclaimed.However, fearing any subsequent role could not live up to the plaudits, Olly returned to music. He released one more album, 2022’s Night Call under the name Years & Years before moving to performing under his own name.And, having not entered the Top Ten in six years, despite collaborations with Kylie Minogue and Sir Elton John, a lot is riding on this Eurovision performance.It is fair to say the UK does not have a great track record at the contest, finishing bottom in 2019 and 2021, then ending up 25th out of 26 last year.Last chance saloonBut in 2022 there was the whirlwind success story of Sam Ryder, who placed second with his song Space Man — our best result in 24 years.Bookmakers Coral are currently saying the UK is 50-1 to win, with odds of 8-1 to finish last and 16-1 to score the dreaded nul points.And Olly doesn’t sound too confident either.He said: “I’m probably not going to win.“The performance is challenging so success will be not falling over and managing to hit the high note.”But it does risk being something of a last-chance saloon for Olly, because an embarrassment at the contest can make you a pariah in the industry.People would make fun of me and call me gay even before I had any idea of my sexuality. But music and performing and drama, whatever, like, the weirder you were, the more unique you were. It kind of worked in your favourOlly AlexanderIn 2022, his European tour was cancelled amid underwhelming ticket sales and he has admitted he needs some new life pumped into his career.On why he is taking part, he said: “I’m ten years into my music career and I haven’t had a big hit for a while. I’m not Dua Lipa — I’m not streaming crazy amounts. This is a route to lots of people hearing your song. I think that’s really helpful.”There have been moments of self-doubt, too, but he is trying to put those thoughts to the back of his head.He said: “I still feel though sometimes, I’m like, ‘Oh my God, I can’t do it, it’s all going to go terribly wrong.“‘I’m just the wrong person to be here, like oh my God’, you know what I mean?“But I actually can do it and I get this amazing platform so I’m just going to make sure I get out there and do a really good job.”It is almost show time. Do us proud, Olly.Eurovision bit
    REIGNING champion Loreen will return to the stage at the grand final to give a special performance.
    The singer, who is the only woman to have won the contest twice, said: “I’m elated to grace the Eurovision final stage in Malmo this year. It’s bound to be a deeply emotional journey.
    “Your unwavering support always leaves me spellbound.
    “This performance is my sincere tribute to the cherished community and fans who shower me with love. Consider it my heartfelt gift to you all.”

    7 acts to watchCROATIA: Baby Lasagna – Rim Tim Tagi Dim. Odds: 13/8 favouriteRIDICULOUSLY catchy. All about leaving your small hometown as he sings: “I’m a big boy now, I’m going away and I sold my cow.” Italian singer Angelina Mango poses on the turquoise carpet before the opening ceremony for the 68th EurovisionCredit: AFPBesa from Albania attends the event ub styleCredit: GettyBambie Thug from Ireland was also pictured on the turquoise carpetCredit: GettyBaby Lasagna is the solo project of Croatian singer Marko PurisicCredit: SplashAlthough it is inspired by folk music in Croatia, Baby Lasagna, whose real name is Marko Purisic, sings the track in front of a backdrop of neon dancing cats.IRELAND: Bambie Thug – Doomsday Blue. Odds: 8/1WACKY enough to win over new fans. Bambie claims to be a witch and sings about casting spells in the track, which veers from screamo rock to soft and soothing vocals in the chorus alone.On stage, Bambie is surrounded by a ring of candles and dances with a man dressed as a dark devil.FINLAND: Windows 95 Man – No Rules! Odds: 100/1AN outsider for the crown but will definitely bring a smile. Despite the name, the act is actually a duo. Frontman Teemu Keisteri, known for his trademark denim hotpants, will be dancing and singing with fireworks strapped to him. Keen not to be upstaged, his bandmate emerges from a gigantic denim egg, naturally.ALBANIA: Besa – Titan. Odds: 200/1A BEAUTIFUL mid-tempo number but as the second act to perform on Thursday, she has a fight on her hands.It is famously unlucky to be one of the first to sing, but hopefully people won’t have forgotten about her by the time it comes to the voting.ITALY: Angelina Mango – La Noia. Odds: 5/1AT 23, she is one of the youngest participants but her song is a crowd pleaser which will get the whole arena dancing.She sings in Italian but it is inspired by Latin American folk music and also raps on the track.FRANCE: Slimane – Mon Amour. Odds: 12/1THE inevitable heartfelt ballad – and it is a really good one. READ MORE SUN STORIESExpected to be the favourite among the music juries but might get lost in the public vote due to simple staging singing alone on a smoky platform.NETHERLANDS: Joost Klein – Europapa. Odds: 12/1HAPPY hardcore tune has been a smash hit in the Netherlands.Visually, it will stick in viewers’ minds too, thanks to Joost’s gigantic shoulder pads, and his best mate on stage who is dressed as an enormous blue bird.How it works
    AS one of the “Big Five” contributors to the European Broadcasting Union, the UK has already qualified for the final alongside acts for France, Germany, Spain and Italy.
    As last year’s winners, Sweden is also automatically through.
    But the remaining 31 nations will battle it out in semi-finals for 20 places in Saturday’s show.
    The first semi will be broadcast live on BBC One at 8pm tonight, with the second on Thursday, also on BBC One at 8pm.
    But viewers will still get a chance to see Olly’s performance before Saturday, as he will showcase his song Dizzy during tonight’s show. More

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      Inside Dua Lipa’s incredible rise to stardom from working as a waitress to Glastonbury headliner with £30m fortune

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      POP star Dua Lipa has the world at her feet.In less than a decade, she has gone from waitressing in London’s Soho to become one of the most in-demand stars on the planet — amassing a fortune of £30million and clocking up three Grammys and seven Brit Awards.Dua Lipa has gone from being a waitress in London’s Soho to one of the most in-demand stars on the planetCredit: GettyDua performed at this year’s Grammy’sCredit: GettyWith close friends including designer Donatella Versace, Sir Elton John and supermodel Gigi Hadid, the daughter of refugees from Kosovo has transformed herself into the ultimate global It Girl.And as befits a British superstar, she has an £8million mansion in affluent West Hampstead in North West London, boasting a swimming pool, home studio and ­cinema.Now she is on course to go to No1 this Friday with her third album Radical Optimism — her first since 2020’s Future Nostalgia, which turned her into a major superstar.The new record has already given Dua another three Top Ten singles in the form of Houdini, Training Season and Illusion, bringing her total to 16.READ MORE ON DUA LIPANot too shabby for someone who is still 15 months away from celebrating her 30th birthday.Its release has ushered in the biggest summer of her career, which will include a massive headline slot at Glastonbury Festival next month.The feat solidifies Dua’s spot in music history, as she follows in the footsteps of the Rolling Stones, Adele and BeyonceDua said of her milestone: “This is the pinnacle. For me, Glastonbury has always been the biggest dream.Most read in Celebrity“It’s been my barometer every time I go into the studio, when I write a song I love. It’s like, ‘How is this going to sound at Glastonbury? Is it going to work?‘Hurtful and humiliating’“It’s just always been on my dream board of something that I want to do. It’s the biggest show of my career.”How Dua Lipa and Callum Turner are set to be Hollywood’s hottest itemThe set, expected to be attended by 100,000 music fans, will come in stark contrast to the last time she ­performed at the famous festival.In 2017, she sang on the John Peel Stage — known for hosting up-and-coming artists — and was worried no one would even turn up.She recalled: “It was just as I was about to go on and there really wasn’t anyone there. And I was like, ‘Oh, f**k. No one’s going to come’.“But I just went, ‘Do you know what? It doesn’t matter — I’m going to get out and I’m just going to ­perform and I’m going to have fun’.“By the time I went out, the whole thing was full and I jumped out and had the best time.”At the weekend, Dua hosted and performed on one of US telly’s ­biggest shows, Saturday Night Live — becoming the first British star to do so since Harry Styles in 2019.Born in London in 1995 to Kosovo-Albanian parents Anesa and Dukagjin Lipa, Dua grew up in the capital before returning to her parents’ homeland when she was 11.Determined to follow her dream, Dua persuaded her mum and dad to let her return to the UK when she was just 15 years old.She said: “I wanted to do music. As much as I loved living in Kosovo, it was a very different experience. I was living with a roommate and my parents knew her parents. My parents put a lot of trust in me so I really tried to be as good as possible.”Dua worked a series of jobs in the UK, including as a guest list girl on the door of nightclubs, before finding a manager and landing a record deal.The star won the best new artist Grammy in 2019Credit: GettyDua even starred in 2023’s Barbie MovieCredit: Instagram/@dualipaBut before earning fame, fortune and accolades, she had a tough ride following the release of her self-titled debut album.She was criticised for her lacklustre dancing on stage and was mocked online with a comment that went viral, reading: “Go girl, give us nothing.”Speaking to a newspaper about the jibes, she said: “When people took that snippet of me dancing online and just turned it into a meme, and then when I won the Best New Artist Grammy and people were like, ‘She’s not deserving of it, she’s got no stage presence, she’s not going to stick around’. Those things were hurtful. It was humiliating.“I had to take myself off Twitter. The thing that made me the happiest — performing and writing songs — was also making me really upset because people were picking everything apart that I’d been ­working on, and I had to learn all that in front of everyone.“In the public eye, I was figuring out who I was as an artist, as a performer. All that was happening while I was 22, 23 years old and still ­growing up. You have to build tough skin. You have to be resilient.”However, she then underwent months of intensive dance rehearsals before her return in order to silence her critics, and she now pulls off complex choreography during her sold-out stage shows.At the 2019 Grammy Awards she won two gongs — Best Dance Recording for single Electricity and Best New Artist for explicit track IDGAF.Two years later, she returned to the US music industry ceremony to pick up her third accolade — Best Pop Vocal Album — for second album Future Nostalgia‘I was over the moon’With three wins and ten nominations to her name, Dua has more Grammys than pop icons Britney Spears (one win from eight nominations) and Kylie Minogue (two wins from six nominations).Even global music legend Cher has fewer, bagging just one from seven nominations. Meanwhile, back on home soil, Dua has won seven Brits.With such star power, it’s no ­wonder the great and the good started lining up to record with Dua.Miley Cyrus enlisted her for 2020 single Prisoner, while the following year Sir Elton John snapped her up to create chart mega-hit Cold Heart.Madonna, the Queen of Pop herself, even gave her royal seal of approval by appearing on a remix of Dua’s smash hit Levitating in 2020, alongside rapper Missy Elliott.Dua said of Madge’s involvement: “It was very much a manifestation thing. I was thinking out loud.“She was so down. I was over the moon. I couldn’t believe that she wanted to do this record with me. I’m such a fan. It was really exciting.”Dua Lipa as a childCredit: InstagramDua Lipa performing at Glastonbury Festival 2017Credit: GettyNot content in dominating the charts, Dua has turned herself into a global brand.She currently has deals with Porsche — said to be worth seven figures — and YSL Beauty.Dua has previously been snapped up by Jaguar, Evian, Mac Cosmetics and Versace, for whom she made her catwalk debut at Milan Fashion Week in September 2021.Last year she co-designed a collection for the Italian fashion house alongside industry powerhouse Donatella Versace.In a gushing statement at the time, Donatella said: “You are now both a Versace supermodel and a Versace super-designer.“We designed this collection with true friendship, love and joy at the heart of every piece.“Your passion and vision have inspired me throughout this creative journey.”The deals have boosted Dua’s net worth to more than £30million — which is set to jump even further in the coming 12 months thanks to a soon-to-be announced global tour.In her last live shows, Dua played to 1.3million fans around the globe over 91 dates — and the ten-month trek took just shy of £100million.Dua appears keen to make her mark on the big screen, too‘Proved them wrong’In 2023, she made a cameo in Oscar-winning film Barbie, playing a Mermaid Barbie alongside Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, as well as topping the charts with Dance The Night from the soundtrack.Earlier this year, she starred alongside Henry Cavill in Apple TV’s spy thriller Argylle.But don’t expect her to call time on creating chart hits.She said at the Golden Globes: “At the moment, music is my priority. I love acting and it was fun — but music is first.”Her love life has also kept her in the news after relationships with model Anwar Hadid and French director Romain Gavras.But she is now in a British power couple with rising screen star Callum Turner, 34.With her album Radical Optimism on track to be another hit, Dua’s sights will now be set on her live shows.Next month she will kick off a series of mini outdoor gigs across Europe before her landmark Glastonbury set on June 26, and a prestigious show at the Royal Albert Hall in October.And she will be making sure there is no reason for people to criticise her performances.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe said: “Every time someone has doubted me, I’ve proved them wrong. And for me, I’m like, this is fuelling me.“This is pushing me to be better, to work hard. And I get a real kick out of proving people wrong.”The family of Dua Lipa, parents Dukagjin and Anesa Lipa and siblings Rina and Gjin attending the Brit Awards 2019Credit: PA:Empics EntertainmentDua Lipa was snapped with boyfriend Callum TurnerCredit: SplashAt the weekend, Dua hosted and performed on one of US telly’s ­biggest shows, Saturday Night LiveCredit: BackGridThis year the artist starred alongside Henry Cavill in Apple TV’s spy thriller Argylle More

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      Power problems, loose wiring and gigs cancelled last minute, inside £365m Manchester Co-op Live Arena launch catastrophe

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      IT was hailed as the most revolutionary venue in the country – one that would usher in a new era of live music.But a week after the £365million Co-op Live Arena was due to open in Manchester, it has turned into a catastrophe.The revolutionary plans of the £365million Co-op Live Arena have been put on hold after its opening has turned into a catastropheCredit: William Lailey / SWNSComedian Peter Kay’s opening performances were cancelled TWICE last monthCredit: GettyUS rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie was due to launch the arena last night instead – but was axed 10mins before the doors openedCredit: GettyConcerts have been cancelled and fans left devastated, while the venue’s chief executive has also quit.US rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie was due to launch the arena — which counts singer Harry Styles as a minority shareholder — last night after comedian Peter Kay’s opening performances were twice cancelled last month.But as queues gathered outside, punters were told the gig had been axed at the last minute, throwing the saga into another level of turmoil.And tonight, Take That and Keane announced their gigs due this month had been called off too, with Take That moving theirs to the nearby AO Arena.READ MORE MUSIC NEWSYesterday’s plans were halted after part of an air-conditioning unit fell off, striking fear into a city already uneasy about venues after the bombing of Ariana Grande’s show at the AO Arena in 2017.An initial test event at Co-op Live in mid-April highlighted major concerns, with loose wiring, unfinished interiors and some cables even gaffer-taped to walls.The capacity for that event, which featured a performance from Rick Astley, had to be cut by 4,000 with two hours to go due to power issues.When it was first announced, the Co-op Live — the biggest indoor arena in Britain with a capacity of 23,500 — promised to “elevate both the artist and fan experience”.Most read in MusicBut the current shambles has raised a series of questions about how long it could take to finally get the building up to scratch — and whether anyone will actually want to perform, or go, there once it is.‘Miracle no one hurt’Grammy’s 2022: Olivia Rodrigo Wins Best New ArtistA music industry insider told The Sun: “The whole thing is a nightmare and an embarrassment.“The developers are absolute experts on building venues so it is shocking how wrong it has gone.Olivia Rodrigo shared how ‘disappointed’ she was after her performance had to be axedCredit: Getty“Every issue which the operators have is to do with the building itself.“When Peter Kay was first supposed to perform in April, half the building didn’t even have electricity.“There have been loads of problems with getting power, which is pretty key. You can’t have a gig in front of 23,500 people with no power.“But the fact something fell off the air con is even more concerning. It’s a miracle no one was hurt.“It doesn’t bear to think about what could have happened if people had been allowed in as planned.”It has also been reported that the backstage toilets are still incomplete, meaning artists have to use the public loos until they are finished.After Wednesday’s cancelled gig, a statement from operator Oak View Group said: “During soundcheck, a component of the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system, used to direct air, separated from the ductwork. There was nobody injured.“Although we believe this to be an isolated incident caused by a factor defect, we were not able to verify that all similar nozzles were free of such defects.”In response, a spokesman for The Co-op Group said: “As the naming rights sponsor for Co-op Live, we are shocked at the incident which has led to late cancellation of tonight’s show at the arena.“We are relieved that no one has been injured, but we share the disappointment and frustration of ticket holders.”US superstar Olivia Rodrigo’s opening shows of her UK tour, which were scheduled to take place tonight and tomorrow at the venue, have now been axed.Olivia, who would have appeared suspended from a crescent moon hanging from the ceiling, was understandably upset — as were almost 50,000 fans who were due to see her.She wrote on Instagram: “I’m sooooo disappointed that we’re unable to perform in Manchester due to ongoing venue-related technical issues. We’re doing our best to reschedule the show.“I’m so bummed and I really hope to see you all soon.”TikToker Chelsea Salt, who was due to attend, said in a video: “We spent so much time planning, talking about it, booking hotels, booking surprises. “I booked my make-up online to get done, I bought matching bracelets, spent time talking about outfits.“I’m just absolutely gutted. It’s just such a shame and they’ve let so many people down.”Olivia was part of an all-star line-up for the launch season. But there are now questions over which concerts will go ahead, meaning hundreds of thousands of fans are still in limbo. But there are now questions over which concerts will go ahead, meaning hundreds of thousands of fans are still in limbo.Currently, still due to perform this month are Elbow, The Black Keys (rescheduled from an axed April gig), Eric Clapton, Barry Manilow, Nicki Minaj and the Eagles.But panicked stars are understood to be frantically trying to make alternative arrangements in case the lucrative shows are cancelled.Nicki Minaj is due to play on May 25 and May 30Credit: GettyTake That were supposed to be lined up for May 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12 but confirmed that they’ve been axed, tooCredit: GettyThe Black Keys had to reschedule after their plans in April were cancelledCredit: GettyThe Eagles are set to play five nights from May 31 as part of an exclusive residency on their Long Goodbye tour — the last chance to see the band perform in the UK.They are believed to have been booked due to their link with former manager Irving Azoff, whose son Jeffrey manages co-owner Harry.However, Liam Gallagher said he is hopeful his concerts on June 15, 16, 27 and 28 will go ahead.In response to a post questioning whether they will happen, he tweeted today: “Keep the faith Rastas.”Speaking about yesterday’s gig cancellation, headliner A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, real name Julius Dubose, told Good Morning Britain: “I just grabbed a glass of wine and started drinking like, damn.“Cancelling a show a week or two weeks, a month ahead of time . . . but never the day of.“This is crazy. A lot of fans in my DMs [direct messages] going off.”Last week, Gary Roden, the venue’s general manager, resigned after the original series of problems and delays.He is understood to have been paid hundreds of thousands in his role — but failed to deliver the building in time.And he faced a backlash after claiming, ironically, that small music venues are closing down because they are poorly run.Rebecca Kane Burton, who was previously in charge at London’s O2 Arena, has been brought in as interim general manager.Former Westlife star Brian McFadden, who lives in Manchester and has played at the nearby AO Arena multiple times, said he saw no use for the costly new venue — which is just a five-minute walk from Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium — in the first place.Brian, now touring in duo Boyzlife, told The Sun: “The AO is a fantastic arena. The arena is just minutes from the Etihad stadiumCredit: Peter Byrne“When I was in Westlife we did ten nights sold out when it was called the MEN Arena and I still to this day remember it. It was by far the best venue.“It had the best facilities and it was big. It was always amazing.“I understand London having a few venues but the Liverpool Echo [now M&S Bank arena] is not too far away and you’ve got the Leeds First Direct Arena. “I’m not sure they needed another one. Someone clearly thought they did and they’re probably regretting it now.”On what will happen next, the venue admitted it has no answers over when things will finally be sorted.A Co-op Live spokesman said: “We understand the need to reassure fans over future shows. “We are working with artist management and promoters to limit the impact on the opening season schedule.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Where necessary, we will identify alternate dates, and will continually reassess to provide fans with sufficient notice regarding imminent shows.“Should shows be cancelled or rescheduled, fans will be contacted by their point of purchase and offered a full refund where preferred.”Rick Astley’s audience was cut as thousands mist out on the test eventCredit: MEN MEDIAKeane were set to play on Sunday but it’s no longer possible for them nowCredit: GettyElbow are set to play on May 14Credit: GettyEric Clapton is supposed to perform on May 18Credit: GettyThe schedule has Barry Manilow up for the following dayCredit: GettyEagles are suppoed to be playing on May 31 and then on June 1, 4, 7 and 8Credit: GettyLiam Gallagher is up for June 15, 16, 27 and 28Credit: The Mega Agency More

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      Bitter love split, spats with sons & burning through her £50m fortune – how Britney Spears’ life has gone into free fall

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      IT was a court case that raged on for years, as #FreeBritney campaigners fought for pop superstar Britney Spears to be released from a legal arrangement that gave her little power over her own life.But two and a half years after she was freed from her 13-year conservatorship, which had given her father Jamie control over her personal life and finances, there are major questions over whether throwing her back into the deep end of life without any help was the right thing to do.Britney Spears pictured in 2018Credit: GettyFans wave #FreeBritney placards but sources say the singer has no one looking out her nowCredit: AlamySince November 2021, the Toxic singer has been hit by disaster after disaster and things have gone from bad to worse.Britney, 42, married third husband, actor Sam Asghari, 30, in June 2022, after they began dating in 2016. But they split 13 months later amid allegations she attacked him as he slept and left him with a black eye and bite marks.Then her sons Preston, 18, and Jayden, 17, moved to Hawaii with their dad Kevin Federline, 46, and publicly begged their mum to stop stripping off and dancing in videos posted on Instagram.Read More on ShowbizThe pop favourite, who has sold more than 150million records, is now living an increasingly “dysfunctional and isolated” life according to sources in the US.And there are concerns she is burning through her £50million fortune, splashing her cash on eye-wateringly expensive luxury holidays.Yesterday, US gossip website TMZ claimed she has been spending millions of dollars on regular trips to French Polynesia every couple of months, blowing the money on private jets, luxury hotels and staff.Then there have also been monthly trips to Hawaii, costing £280k a pop, where she stays in the presidential suite at the Four Seasons.Most read in CelebrityA source said: “There is no one looking after Britney. “Her life is in freefall. Britney Spears dances in teeny black bikini inside LA mansion as she gushes she was ‘feeling herself’“She has no focus and no one is telling her that she is at risk of flittering away all of the earnings she worked so hard for. “She is living like there’s no tomorrow.”There were allegations of financial mismanagement during her conservatorship.She was forced to perform several lucrative tours and Las Vegas residencies, released four albums, appeared as a judge on the X Factor USA and launched a string of products but despite her heavy workload, the numbers did not add up to the huge sum she should have earned, while her father was paid £12,000 per month.But the source continued: “Her finances were so tightly watched when she was in the conservatorship.“There were times when she had to ask her backing dancers to pay for dinner and she was basically given meagre pocket money from her own accounts.“Now it’s like she’s gone from one extreme to the other. “It’s worrying to think what could happen in just a few short years if she blows through her fortune.”Although the conservatorship was legally terminated in 2021, only last week did the legal wrangle over the intricacies finally come to an end. It was decided she would have to pay £3.2million in fees to her lawyer Mathew Rosengart and a further £1.6 million for her father’s legal costs.But an emotional Britney hit out at her dad Jamie, 71, and mum Lynne, 68, who she has also had a rocky relationship with, claiming they ought to face “justice”.In a post on her Instagram page on Sunday night, before she deactivated her account yesterday, she wrote: “There has been no justice and probably never will be!There is no one looking after Britney, her life is in freefall. No one is telling her that she is at risk of flittering away the earnings she worked so hard for’Inside source“The way I was brought up I was always taught the formative of right and wrong but the very two people who brought me up with that method hurt me!“I am so lucky to be here! “It’s funny ’cus till this very day I haven’t told them face to face!“I text through IG but I honestly believe it will not be so safe if I ever did go face to face!”Her lawyer Mathew seems to be one of the only people acting in her best interests, after deciding it would be better to end the legal battle with Jamie.The Sun’s insider said: “Britney told Mathew that she wanted justice and her day in court with her dad.“She urged him to push the case that Jamie effectively stole money from her, while running the estate as her conservator but he has strongly denied any wrongdoing.“Jamie’s lawyers have had the right to make Britney sit in front of them for depositions about many of these matters — and it would cost many more millions. “If that had happened, she would have been filmed answering hours of questions about the darkest times in her life including drug problems, mental health woes and personal dramas.The star wed husband number three Sam Asghari in June 2022 but they broke up 13 months laterCredit: Instagram/Sam AsghariSinger Britney won back control of her finances and personal life from dad JamieCredit: AFP“Mathew’s focus has been protecting his client.”However, the source, based in Las Vegas and who has worked with Britney for many years, stated: “Jamie has pretty much had all his expenditures examined by the LA Superior Court and signed off by a judge. “The overarching observation is that Jamie saved Britney’s finances from ruin.“She was at one point down to £2.5million and he helped her to rise up to more than £50million.”While Britney has struggled since the conservatorship was terminated, many are convinced it was how she was treated during the arrangement which did irreparable damage.During interviews in the UK in 2016 during a press tour for her ninth album Glory, she appeared present and witty. A few years later it was a different story.In early 2019, she pulled out of a Las Vegas residency and announced an indefinite hiatus from music.Sons Preston and Jayden have begged Britney to stop posting revealing picsCredit: Refer to CaptionOne of Britney’s erratic and worrying social media postsCredit: Instagram/britneyspearsIt is believed to have been axed after she refused to take medication and she was carted off to a live-in rehabilitation centre, leading fans to question where she was, having not been pictured for months.At that point, she was forcibly given lithium to treat her bipolar disorder, as well as a cocktail of other prescription medications.Speaking in court in 2021, she said: “Lithium is a very, very strong and completely different medication compared to what I was used to.“You can go mentally impaired if you take too much, if you stay on it longer than five months. But he put me on that, and I felt drunk.”In summer 2021, Jamie’s lawyers made it clear that much of her private health information had been kept a secret from the public as he tried to protect her.Documents filed in court said: “There is no doubt that the Conservatorship saved Ms Spears from disaster, supported her when she needed it the most, protected her and her reputation from harm, and facilitated the restoration of her career.”But now she is out on her own, she appears far more erratic and vulnerable, with distrust for the system which was supposed to look after her.I was always taught the formative of right and wrong but the very two people who brought me up with that method hurt me! I am so lucky to be here!’ Britney on Sunday on InstagramIt has also been more than two years since she has seen her sons, who did not attend her wedding to Sam. Speaking in 2022, Jayden said of his relationship with his mum: “I 100 per cent think it can be fixed, of course. “It’s just going to take a lot of time and effort. “I really want to see her again.”But about her social media, he added: “It’s almost like she has to post something on Instagram to get attention.“There’s a high chance that this is never going to really stop, but I’m hoping for me, maybe she will.”There is once again a discussion over whether Britney could ever return to music. Aside from one-off collaborations with Sir Elton John and Will.i.am, she has not released her own music in eight years.Last year, her management started assembling a team to write for a new Britney album. But after she got wind of the plan, she hit out online and said she had no ambition to ever return to pop.Now there are fears she might have to do it because she needs the cash. But the music industry is not an easy place to navigate and is quick to build people up and spit them right back out again.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhat Britney needs right now is some proper TLC. Her father clearly isn’t the one to give it to her, but someone needs to step in. More

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      All the celebs racking up sunshine holidays in 2024 – with one taking FIVE trips including Hawaii already

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      CELEBS are not letting the miserable weather get them down – because they’ve dodged the UK’s April showers for sunny jaunts abroad instead.We revealed yesterday that Katie Price, 45, is sunning herself in Ayia Napa with her Married At First Sight boyfriend JJ Slater, 31, despite not attending her bankruptcy hearing due to “anxiety”.Katie Price is in Ayia Napa with boyfriend JJ Slater after dodging her bankruptcy hearingCredit: InstagramThe mum of five also went skiing in Bulgaria with JJ in February – but she isn’t the only one who loves jetting off. Hayley Minn tots up the hols seven sun seekers have had since the start of year.Rochelle Humes – Maldives, Dubai, Miami, Maldives (again)Rochelle Humes has jetted out on four holidays so far this year – including two to the MaldivesCredit: Instagram/rochellehumesWHAT’S better than a trip to the Maldives? How about a free holiday there . . . Rochelle Humes jetted out with husband Marvin and their children to an £800-a-night luxury resort in January, which was paid for because she was doing a photoshoot on the island.READ MORE SHOWBIZ NEWSThe This Morning duo returned with daughters Alaia-Mai, ten, Valentina, six, and three-year-old son Blake in March – but this time they paid for the trip.They headed to Dubai in February for half term before Rochelle, 35, went to Miami in March. Beats being on This Morning’s sofa.Jess Wright – Dubai, Paris, Val ThorensJess enjoyed a family holiday to French ski resort Val Thorens in JanuaryCredit: Instagram/jesswright77LIFE must be tough for Jess Wright. The former Towie cast member described last month’s family trip to Dubai – her third holiday of the year so far – as some “much-needed time out”.Most read in CelebrityJess, 38, went to French ski resort Val Thorens in January with her one-year-old son Presley – who she has with husband William Lee-Kemp – and the rest of her family, including brother Mark Wright, 37.Nicole Scherzinger looks incredible as she strips down to her bikini for sizzling holiday snaps Jess took her mum Carol, 64, to Paris in February. As it was Carol’s first time in the French capital, Jess treated her to a trip to the Eiffel Tower.Millie Court – Australia, Val Thorens, Las Vegas, Sorrento, Palm Springs, Avoriaz Millie Court has already been on six holidays this yearCredit: Instagram/milliegracecourtGLOBE-trotting Millie Court went to ­Sydney in January and Val Thorens in France for skiing in February.In March she had a second French ski trip in Avoriaz – this time with boyfriend Liam Reardon, 24, who she met on Love Island in 2021. The couple also headed to Vegas. This month they travelled around Italy before Millie, 27, went to Coachella music ­festival in California.Millie Mackintosh – Mauritius, South Africa, Milan, KosMillie Mackintosh has already been on three more holidays since seeing in the new year in MauritiusCredit: Instagram/milliemackintoshMADE In Chelsea . . . holidaying in Mauritius. Posh reality TV couple Millie Mackintosh and Hugo Taylor saw in the new year on the subtropical island with their two daughters, Sienna, three, and Aurelia, two.Later in January, they went to Cape Town, staying at the £805-a-night Mount Nelson, and in March had a break in Milan.Millie, 34, is now on a well-earned free holiday in Greek island Kos, with Hugo, 37.Nicole Scherzinger – Maldives, Portugal, LA, Hawaii, AustriaGlobe-trotting Nicole Scherzinger took a trip to Hawaii this yearCredit: Instagram/nicolescherzingerWHAT is it about the beautiful, exclusive Maldives that attracts so many celebrities?Nicole Scherzinger may know – in February she stayed at the £1,800-a-night Finolhu Baa resort on the South Asian island with rugby hunk fiancé Thom Evans, 39.In January the couple had a weekend break in Portugal after Nicole, 45, finished her five-month West End stint in Sunset Boulevard. They also visited LA in February and Hawaii in April for Thom’s 39th birthday – and now Nicole is in Austria for her fifth break of the year.Molly-Mae Hague (Maldives, Ibiza, Courchevel)Molly-Mae Hague has been on three holidays this yearCredit: InstagramAFTER finding fame in a summer villa, 24-year-olds Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury seem intent on staying in the sun whenever they can.The 2019 Love Island stars spent January in the Maldives with one-year-old daughter Bambi at the £10,000-a-night Ritz Carlton.In March, Molly-Mae flew out to Ibiza. Then, later that month, she took Tommy and Bambi to Courchevel, France, for a ski trip.Myleene Klass (Maldives, Miami, South Africa, Disneyland)Myleene Klass has been on four holidays this year alreadyCredit: Instagram/myleeneklassI’M a celebrity – get me out of the UK!Myleene Klass kicked off the year by holidaying in the Maldives with her fiancé Simon Motson, her three children, Ava, Hero and Apollo, and his two kids.The TV host and singer last month soaked up the rays in Miami’s South Beach before heading to South Africa – where she won I’m A Celebrity All Stars last year – to shoot her Next swimwear campaign.READ MORE SUN STORIESEarlier this month, Myleene, 46, and Simon took their kids to Disneyland Paris. More

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      Victoria Beckham finally hits High Street as 46-piece Mango collection is revealed – but some fans aren’t happy

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      SINCE a little black dress made her an overnight fashion icon in the Nineties, Victoria Beckham has spent three decades earning her stripes.She launched her eponymous brand in 2008 but for years her pricey garments were out of reach for most — until now.Victoria Beckham launched a fashion brand in 2008Credit: Instagram/victoriabeckhamPosh has now hit the High Street thanks to a collaboration with Spanish giant Mango, pictured with Alexa ChungPosh has finally hit the High Street thanks to a collaboration with Spanish giant Mango, with chic pieces starting at £50, released on Tuesday.Victoria, 50, said: “I really wanted to speak to a wider audience in a way that feels relevant to my brand and retains my aesthetic and DNA.“I wanted to create a conscious, modern wardrobe which is perfect for the summer months.“There is a cheekiness but it is also very put together with a sensuality.”READ MORE ON POSHThe 46-piece collection goes up to £300, spanning silk camisole tops, tailored suit separates and chunky jewellery, and fashionistas have raved over the boxy cut blazer and sexy slip dresses.Victoria celebrated the launch with a glitzy showbiz bash in Spain with guests including Alexa Chung, 40, Emily Ratajkowski, 32, and her son Romeo’s on-off model girlfriend Mia Regan, 21.Mango hired Casa Cruylles, a 1960s luxurious white villa set in the cliffs of Costa Brava’s Port d’Esclanya, and the crew filled the property with hundreds of white candles and mannequins wearing the collection.Other guests included models such as Adwoa Aboah and British Vogue stylist Julia Sarr-Jamois plus bloggers and stylists.Most read in CelebrityDressed in a white suit from her collection, Victoria was seen hobbling on crutches after breaking her foot earlier this year in a fall at the gym.Later she sipped on spicy margaritas as they partied to one of Posh’s favourite DJ acts, Hale Zero, made up of brothers Carl, Greg and Raf Haley.After only hours of the collection’s launch some items had sold out, including a white trouser suit and a whimsical lilac gown.But Vic always knew those designs would fly out the door.She said: “I really love the easy slip dresses and the tailoring in particular. I have always played with both the feminine and masculine and want to offer an effortless women’s wardrobe that is versatile and wearable.“I was inspired by the iconic French film La Piscine, but more specifically by Jane Birkin’s character and her ease. She is all about natural beauty, is highly feminine and has a real sense of freedom.”From her days as a Spice Girl, Victoria favoured simple cuts and a streamlined silhouette, although she dabbled with quirkier designs during her solo pop years and at the start of her marriage to David — remember the bandana head scarfs and double denim?But her fashion compass has always swung back to the classics.I was the UK’s top Posh lookalikeLess is always more for Victoria, but she said: “Something might appear simple but so much thought and execution has gone into how that piece fits or sits on the body, the way it creates a strong silhouette.“It was an exciting challenge to embrace another creative process with Mango without compromising on the creative and desirability.“I am very proud of what we have created together. It feels very modern to bring the two brands together.“I also feel that we have a shared ethos, aesthetic and values around femininity, quality and a real love of product.”There appears to be just one snag — the size range.The 46-piece collection goes up to £300, spanning silk camisole tops, tailored suit separates and chunky jewelleryCredit: Victoria Beckham x MangoMia Regan and other stars joined Posh to celebrate the launch with a showbiz bash in SpainCredit: InstagramCritics have noted the largest items are a size 14, with some only available up to 12, even though Mango reaches a size 26 in other collections.‘Excluding so many potential customers’The blazers span from small to large, with measurements of the latter landing between a 12 and 14 at Marks & Spencer.One style influencer, Stephanie Yeboah, who notes she is a body image advocate and a size 22, shared her disappointment online.She wrote: “I tried on the only three pieces that had stretch because I wanted to see what they looked like on.“Brands need to see and recognise that bigger bodies are deserving of clothing too. I would have bought the black skirt.“The dress and the skirt were my favourites but, alas, Vic and Mango said no fatties allowed.“A shame. A missed opportunity.”Others added their voice online, with one writing: “Why aren’t you offering sizes above UK14? I’m a size 16-18.“I feel left out and like I’m not good enough. So disappointed.“You’re excluding so many potential customers. Real shame.”The brand stepped in to reply to the feedback, responding to one: “We are sorry to hear your dissatisfaction regarding the availability of sizes in our Victoria Beckham x Mango collection. We take this opportunity to inform you that we are working to add a wider range of sizes in our next collections.”Posh’s core collection under her Victoria Beckham brand ranges from XS to XXL (size 18) after she extended the measurements in 2022.I think people will be very surprised by how strong the fashion message is in every single garmentPoshIf Posh was bothered by the criticism, she didn’t let it show.In an interview with Vogue last week Victoria gushed that she hoped her Mango collection was “timeless”.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe said: “When you invest in one of these pieces you won’t just wear it for one season, they’ll be pieces you’ll keep in your wardrobe and wear time and time again.“I think people will be very surprised by how strong the fashion message is in every single garment.”Victoria with models Adwoa Aboah and Emily RatajkowskiThis suit jacket without lapels is £180, and these pleated suit trousers are £115Credit: Victoria Beckham x MangoGet this asymetrical dress for £190Credit: Victoria Beckham x MangoThis crochet dress with open back is £115Credit: Victoria Beckham x MangoPick up this pink Godets dress for £170Credit: Victoria Beckham x MangoI LOVE THIS BUT WHERE IS THE LBD?By Clemmie Fieldsend, Fashion Editor

      I SPENT my younger years as a die-hard Spice Girls fan, dressed up in Posh-inspired LBDs and insisting on having a bob haircut.
      Fast forward 19 years and I can finally get my hands on a piece of Victoria Beckham’s collection.
      Her range with Mango is filled with sophisticated and timeless pieces that suit my style down to a tee.
      From beautifully fluid dresses to elevated tailoring such as a deconstructed trench coat at £300, to classic tuxedo trousers for £150, the range is full of pieces you could pull out of your wardrobe in ten years and they would still be current.
      Other fashion and Victoria fans are impressed too, with items such as a black blazer, £180, and lilac dress, £170, already selling out.
      Even the more daring pieces are a hit, such as the £140 black semi-sheer blouse.
      The blazer screams Posh style and is now the look she is best known for.
      There are accessories too, and I love the oversized black basket bag at £170.
      For those who aren’t fans of muted wardrobe staples there’s also a floral printed frock and blouse for a splash of colour.
      But I can’t believe there is no Little Black Dress.
      Sure, it would have been a bit gimmick, but myself and other life-long Posh fans would have appreciated it. More

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      All of Taylor Swift’s favourite London haunts revealed – from pubs to greasy takeaway shop and swanky members only club

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      SHE may be the embodiment of the American dream, but Taylor Swift has made no secret of her love for Britain – and our boozers.Her latest album, which is sure to give the 34-year-old her 12th No1 on Friday, even includes a track named after South London pub The Black Dog, which has been swamped with Taylor’s loyal “Swifties” ever since its release.Taylor Swift has made no secret of her love for Blighty – and a British boozerCredit: GettySwifties pose for a selfie outside The Black Dog pub in LondonCredit: ReutersOn the song, Taylor sings about watching her ex Joe Alwyn go into the pub after he forgot to turn off his shared location on his phone following their split in early 2023.The quiet venue has now seen a spike in bookings from fans desperate to check it out when they visit the capital for Taylor’s record-equalling eight sold-out nights at Wembley Stadium in June and August.In total, 720,000 fans will watch the shows, with tickets being flogged for upwards of £600.Taylor first performed in the UK in 2008, when she played an intimate set at the King’s College student union in London to promote her second album Fearless.Read More on Taylor SwiftSince then she has brought four lots of live gigs to our shores, including her 1989 World Tour in 2015, which saw her play a headline gig in Hyde Park, and her 2018 Reputation Stadium Tour.‘I love it when someone says someone is well fit’Her Eras Stadium Tour touches down in the UK in June, kicking off with three sold-out nights at Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh.Her latest album, The Tortured Poets Department, released last Friday, includes lots of references to her ex-boyfriend Joe, 33.The couple dated for six years from late 2016. Most read in CelebrityIn June 2017, Taylor relocated to North London to be with the then up-and-coming actor.Prior to the move he was living with his parents. Ex Drove Taylor INKsaneTaylor then based herself between Primrose Hill and the States.Other Brits she has dated — and written tracks about — include One Direction superstar Harry Styles, 30, actor Tom Hiddleston, 43, and Scottish DJ Calvin Harris, 40.The Tortured Poets Department also covers her 2023 fling with The 1975 frontman Matty Healy, 35, son of Loose Women’s Denise Welch and actor Tim Healy.Speaking previously about her love of British slang, Taylor, who is now dating American football ace Travis Kelce, 34, said: “Some of my favourites are ‘cup of Rosie’ [Cockney rhyming slang for tea], ‘chuffed’, ‘knackered’, ‘gutted’ and ‘taking the p***’. Oh, and ‘well fit’. I love it when someone says someone is ‘well fit’. You guys are really fun.”She added: “I especially love it as they all pronounce my name ‘Tay-la’ here.”With her love of British phrases, blokes and boozers, here we bring you the ultimate guide to Taylor’s London . . . 1. Spaniards Inn, HampsteadWHEN she was living in Crouch End, North London, Taylor would often slip off for a drink and bite to eat at the quirky, wood-panelled Spaniards Inn.The singer is said to have worn a black wig to fly under the radar from unsuspecting locals.Taylor would often slip off for a drink and bite to eat at the quirky, wood-panelled Spaniards InnCredit: Alamy2. Hampstead HeathJUST a few minutes from her home, Taylor regularly enjoyed low-key walks on the Heath, which she sung about on 2019 track London Boy and on this year’s So Long, London.The latter includes the lyrics: “I left all I knew, you left me at the house by the Heath.”Taylor enjoyed walks on the Heath, which she sung about on London Boy and So Long, LondonCredit: Getty3. Garden Gate pub, HampsteadTAYLOR name-checked the boozer, which was close to where she lived with ex Joe Alwyn, in 2019 song Cruel Summer.She sings: “And I snuck in through the garden gate. Every night that summer just to seal my fate.”Taylor name-checked The Garden Gate boozer in 2019 song Cruel SummerCredit: ROGA_4. Kentish Delight kebab shopSHE is said to have been spotted grabbing a greasy late-night treat at Kentish Delight kebab shop in Kentish Town.In fact, Taylor loved the small takeaway so much she filmed a scene for her 2018 single End Game there.Taylor is said to have been spotted grabbing a greasy late-night treat at Kentish Delight kebab shop in Kentish TownCredit: HandoutStaff say it was then boyfriend Joe’s favourite place to grab a chicken shish.5. Camden MarketA FAVOURITE hangout for artists and musicians, the market has its fair share of musical heritage – so it’s no wonder Taylor fell in love with the area.On London Boy, Taylor sings: “You know I love a London boy/I enjoy walking Camden Market in the afternoon.”Camden Market has its fair share of musical heritage – and Taylor fell in love with the areaCredit: Alamy6. Laylow, Notting HillAPTLY named Laylow, this Notting Hill restaurant, known for its South American dishes and live music, was a place Taylor could hide out at.She enjoyed a swanky dinner in January 2023 with Cameron Diaz, Sacha Baron Cohen and Lena Dunham.The Laylow is known for its South American dishes and live musicCredit: Laylow7. ShoreditchTAYLOR made sure to give the edgy streets of East London a name-check in London Boy.Simply singing how she enjoys “Shoreditch in the afternoon”, she left fans guessing if she was a fan of sticky-floored boozers or a regular at exclusive members’ club Shoreditch House.Taylor made sure to give the edgy streets of East London a name-check in London BoyCredit: Getty8. The Groucho Club, SohoSHE has been seen at members-only venue The Groucho Club throughout the years.And in 2013 Taylor snuck into the exclusive haunt for a date with British singer Tom Odell.Taylor has been seen at The Groucho Club throughout the years – pictured with Tom Odell9. The Savoy HotelTAYLOR has been known to stay in the Royal Suite at central London hotel The Savoy.The hotel can count a long list of A-listers as guests, including Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor.Taylor has been known to stay in the Royal Suite at central London hotel The SavoyCredit: GettyAt a wallet-busting £17,500 a night for the Royal Suite, most of us can only dream of such luxury, but for billionaire Taylor, it’s a drop in the ocean. In 2015 she posed in the Savoy’s Beaufort Bar for Vanity Fair.10. Black Dog Pub, VauxhallA WHOLE song is dedicated to the pub in Vauxhall on Taylor’s latest album.On the track, called the Black Dog, she sings about watching ex Joe go in there after he forgot to turn off his shared location following their split last year.A whole song is dedicated to the Black Dog pub in Vauxhall on Taylor’s latest albumCredit: AlamyThe lyrics include: “And so I watch as you walk/Into some bar called The Black Dog/And pierce new holes in my heart.”READ MORE SUN STORIES11. BrixtonIT is one of the most multicultural and diverse boroughs in the capital, and Taylor has gushed over nights out in Brixton, which is known for its lively music scene.On London Boy, Taylor sings: “I enjoy nights in Brixton”.Taylor has gushed over nights out in Brixton, which is known for its lively music sceneCredit: Getty More

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      I’ve had my breast implants out after health woes… but I don’t like not having my boobs, reveals Jess Impiazzi

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      BRAVE Jess Impiazzi says she has been through a “year of hell” after twice being rushed to hospital while dealing with her split from Jermaine Pennant and needing to have her breast implants removed.The ex-glamour model, who ended her two-year relationship with the former footballer in December following him having a night in Ibiza with a dominatrix, admits: “I don’t like not having my boobs.”Brave Jess Impiazzi speaks about her ‘year of hell’ – twice being rushed to hospital when dealing with her split from Jermaine PennantCredit: Olivia West – Commissioned by The SunAnd she had to have her breast implants removed, fearing they were connected to her lupus, which causes skin rashes and tirednessCredit: Ian Whittaker – Commissioned by The SunJess, 35, had her breast implants removed in October, fearing they were connected to her autoimmune condition lupus, which causes skin rashes and tiredness — and she is still trying to adapt to her new figure.In an exclusive interview, she revealed: “I got so used to them and it’s taken a lot for me to get used to not having them.“It’s scary, especially for self-confidence. That’s why I had them done in the first place.“There are so many women who have had to have this procedure either for the same reason as me or for breast cancer, and I’m just trying to be confident with it.READ MORE ON JESS IMPIAZZI“There are so many groups online where women build each other up. We’ve got to stick together.“And I know it was the right decision for my health.“I’d had a ruptured implant on my old boobs and had them redone, and I think that it also contributed to me getting sick.“There were so many factors which would end up giving someone autoimmune symptoms so I decided to remove them.Most read in Celebrity‘Someone has put the smile back on my face’“I’ve had implants since I was 18, so for me it’s a big change and I’m still trying to get used to it. I’m just listening to my body.”Jess, who has reinvented herself as an actress by starring in shows such as BBC crime drama Strike, has managed to remain upbeat despite her problems.Jess ditched Jermaine after he spent the night with an adult entertainer on a boozy Ibiza stag doCredit: Dan Charity – Commissioned by The SunJess Impiazzi takes a savage swipe at ex Jermain Pennant after bitter split as she breaks her silence on cruel betrayalThe actress ditched Jermaine, 41, after he spent the night with an adult entertainer on a boozy Ibiza stag do at the same time Jess was undergoing IVF treatment to start a family.The former Liverpool and Stoke star moved out of her Surrey home at the beginning of the year.Jess said: “I just think the best way to move forward with that is to always heal, forgive, let go and carry on with your life as best you can.“It’s about focusing on all the positive things in your life, which is what I did.“With any loss or break-up you have to focus on yourself.“There will always be things in life that will throw you off course—  there are always going to be challenges, but it’s about pulling yourself together and getting back to doing what you love.”With her personal life unravelling, Jess’s health took a turn for the worse.She was appearing in panto in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warks, and was rushed to hospital twice with a suspected blood clot in her right lung.She was eventually diagnosed with a viral infection and discharged.Jess said: “During panto I ended up in A&E, which was really scary.“I’d been prescribed steroids to keep my lupus at bay but they impact your immune system, so I had to be really careful.“I caught some kind of chest infection. My resting heart rate went through the roof and I was sent to A&E.“Luckily I was able to carry on with the show and didn’t miss one performance, which I’m really proud of.I’m so proud to have got through it, despite my health problemsJess Impiazzi“It was my first theatre show since I was 17. I was so nervous, but after that first show I got that feeling in my stomach.“It wasn’t fear any more, and it meant so much to be back on stage.“And I’m so proud to have got through it, despite my health problems. The cast and crew were all so supportive and really helped me.“When I look back I still can’t believe I did it, especially with everything that was going on.”But Jess has bounced back and now feels healthy and happy. She is even dating again.She said: “Everyone was saying to me, ‘You’ll meet someone when you least expect it’, but I didn’t want to meet anyone ever again.“That always seems to be the way, though — when you’re not looking, someone comes into your life.“There is someone who has put the smile back on my face.“I’m seeing my friends more and everything is falling into place, which I couldn’t have expected in a million years. I feel like I’ve got a really good balance going on and I couldn’t be happier.”“With her health improving, Jess hopes to secure her next big acting role, after impressing viewers of the JK Rowling drama Strike in 2022.She said: “When I got sick my acting took a bit of a back seat.“It was a shame, because after Strike I was hoping to build on that momentum. But I’m back now auditioning.” Jess larking around in underwear for fans on InstagramAnd she is also excited about the possibility of returning to Prime Video’s Covid mockumentary Keep Calm & Carry On.The comedy came out in 2022 and also starred Harriet Thorpe — AKA EastEnders’ Elaine Peacock.Jess said: “I had such a great time filming Keep Calm & Carry On. We’re just waiting for the second series to be green lit.“I really am excited about the next few months. There’s been a lot of positive changes in my life.“My mindset is so focused on all the good stuff that it’s now outweighing a troublesome few years.“I’ve also got quite a few things in the pipeline.”Putting her recent upheavals behind her, Jess jumped at the chance in February to help Emergency Ukraine, an initiative to deliver medical supplies to the war-torn nation.She said: “I’d never been invited to do anything like this before, and with everything that I’d gone through I knew it was something I had to do.‘People help strangers – that gives me hope’“We drove through the Channel Tunnel to France and then through Germany before reaching Poland and on to the Ukraine border.“We were seeing young men come in from the front line and all the buildings that had been blown up.“You see these things on the television but you’re almost disconnected from it. When you’re there, it really hits home.“I had goosebumps every night and you’d hear the air raid sirens go off.“But what I did notice was how resilient the people of Ukraine are.“The sirens would be going off and yet there were children skipping down the street as if it was nothing.“It’s heartbreaking what’s going on in those moments of real tragedy — that’s when humanity comes together.“People just want to help strangers and that gives me hope. It’s something that I will never forget and I am so glad that I did it.”What I did notice was how resilient the people of Ukraine areJess ImpiazziShe added: “It was a life-changing experience and gave me time to reflect on my own life. It felt like I’d done something good. “When we got to the hospitals and the doctors came out, they were so relieved to see what we had brought.“It was things like catheters, wheelchairs, drips, needles — everything they were running out of.“It made me feel valued that I’d done something to help other people.“The whole experience gave something back to me as well.“But my mum has made me promise never to do anything like it again. “She was so worried and wouldn’t talk to me while I was out there because she’d really not wanted me to go.”Jess’s mother Debbie, 62, went blind when she was 47 from a rare genetic disorder and now the actress is also looking forward to continue helping Guide Dogs UK. I haven’t been able to do much these last few months because of my healthJess ImpiazziShe became an ambassador for the charity after her mum lost her sight and has raised funds for it over the years.Jess said: “I’m hoping to get myself fit enough to run some marathons for the charity.“It’s something that is close to my heart, so to be able to get back to fundraising for them would be incredible.“I have run three half-marathons for them and abseiled down the side of London’s Leadenhall Building.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Sadly, I haven’t been able to do much these last few months because of my health.“So to be able to get back out there doing stuff like that again would be amazing.” More

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      in entertainment and celebrities

      Can people stop claiming Taylor Swift is some kind of musical messiah – she’s no Madonna or Britney

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      IN the world of pop she is the ultimate digestive biscuit, when what we really want is a party ring.I appreciate I’m one of a very small minority of people   who can’t stand the Taylor Swift phenomenon, but I’m standing my ground here.I’m utterly bewildered by our fringed friend whose army of sycophants hail her as the musical messiahCredit: AFPNot because I’m a misogynist who can’t stand to see a powerful woman call the shots in a male-dominated industry, but the opposite.I refer you back to the Eighties, when the changing world of rock and pop became dominated by divas strutting around stages with bouffant hair, giant earrings and towering high heels.And that was just the men. The women were even wilder. Tina Turner, Madonna, Annie Lennox  – they were gender-bending, trendsetting, rebellious trailblazers who took the planet by storm.They broke taboos regarding race, class, religion and, of course, sexism. READ MORE TAYLOR SWIFTNo one had ever seen anyone quite like them before.Which is why I’m utterly bewildered by our fringed friend whose army of sycophants hail her as the musical messiah.I will acknowledge that Tay-Tay writes great lyrics and has knocked out some sensational pop songs.She’s also clearly very shrewd and strong-willed and isn’t pandering to anyone’s perceptions of how she should be.Most read in MusicGood for her. She’s a decent pop star. But she’s not, as so many claim, an iconic one.Taylor not distinctiveIn order to earn this iconic status, and the smoke constantly blown up her backside, she ought to be serving something more than a few brightly coloured leotards, which, let’s face it, is the sort of get-up Madonna would wear to nip for a loaf  at Tesco.Madonna is a true musical icon who has lasted decades – will the same be of Taylor?Credit: RexKim Kardashian gets trolled by Taylor Swift fans after singer ‘shades’ star in Tortured Poets song (commenting on her latest pic with ‘thanK you aIMee’Madge tackled head-on sexuality, male chauvinists and just about every other form of bigotry imaginable.Those of us of a certain age will recall  her Like A Prayer video, which took a swipe at the Catholic Church and featured a black actor playing Jesus Christ, who she snogged . . . oof!Do you really want your kids to grow up coveting a career washing their dirty linen in public?Rod McPheeAnd my scepticism isn’t just because I’m a child of the Eighties, either.Look at all the amazing performers who have emerged since then – Britney Spears, Beyonce, Amy Winehouse.They’re all incredibly distinctive, talented women who, 30 years from now, will still be impersonated and revered. But will we be able to say the same thing about Swifty? I doubt it.And for all parents who think she’s an inspirational role model, do you really want your kids to grow up coveting a career washing their dirty linen in public?Beyoncé is one of the modern musical icons who are more impressive than TaylorCredit: Cécred / PA More