Celebrities

Comedian Jason Manford has been forced to cancel a series of shows on his UK comedy tour after being rushed to hospital and undergoing emergency surgery22:33, 31 Jul 2025Updated 22:35, 31 Jul 2025Jason was rushed to the hospital with appendicitis(Image: Getty)Comedian Jason Manford has revelaed that he underwent emergency surgery for appendicitis, leading to the cancellation and rescheduling of several UK tour dates for his show.The 44 year old comedian had been set to perform his show A Manford All Seasons in Hertfordshire on Thursday, but was abruptly cancelled due to his sudden illness. Subsequently, three more shows in Oxford, Lincoln, and Skegness were also postponed.Jason shared an update from his hospital bed on Instagram, revealing that his appendix surgery was successful. He posted: “Appendix surgery all went well, now in recovery with my Vimto – they serve it in all Manchester hospitals.”Jason shaared the snap from his hospital bed(Image: Jason Manford)Describing the experience as a “bit of a scary & extremely painful 24 hours,” Jason explained that his symptoms began while driving at 70mph on the motorway. The condition, caused by an inflamed appendix, typically results in severe pain and requires urgent surgical removal.He said: “Thankful to our NHS & my incredible nurse mum who’s a godsend in a health crisis!”Thank you for understanding, we apologise for any inconvenience caused.”A follow-up statement confirmed that the shows at Oxford’s New Theatre, Lincoln’s Engine Shed, and Skegness’ Embassy Hall had been rescheduled.The post read: “We regret to inform you that the following performances of A Manford All Seasons have been unexpectedly cancelled due to Jason Manford being unwell. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”Jason also revealed he would miss his family holiday(Image: Jason Manford)Manford confessed he had intended to carry on with the shows, despite his discomfort. “I thought I could get by on antibiotics and surgery at a later date so I could still do the shows, but was advised not to.”The operation’s timing also means he’ll miss a family holiday abroad, reports the Express.Manford added: “Also means I can’t fly out to Portugal on Monday to join my family on holiday! Ah well, such is life.”Expressing his disappointment, he added: “Seriously though, I’m gutted that I’ve had to move the dates this weekend… Thanks for all the ‘Get Well Soon’ messages.”Earlier in the day, organisers confirmed the cancellation of his Hertfordshire show, attributing it to his ill health.Article continues belowManford, born in Salford, career began in 2007 when he had a small part in Ideal as Jack. He then hosted a breakfast show on Xfm Manchester until May 2008.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters. More

Love is a force of nature – and even the rich and famous can be swept up in its whims. How else can we explain some of the oddest romances in showbiz history?22:32, 31 Jul 2025Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson attend “The Naked Gun” US Premiere(Image: Getty Images for Paramount Pictu)Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson have been going full barrel with their rumoured romance ahead of today’s Naked Gun release. They’ve been spotted cosying up together on red carpets all over the world.The duo, who star together in the comedy remake, are keeping their lips sealed about whether they are actually dating. But they wouldn’t be the first surprise showbiz coupling to raise a few eyebrows. Here we take a look at some more unlikely pairs…Tom Cruise and CherNo, we’re not joking. Back in the mid-1980s, actor Tom Cruise really did get hot and heavy with the music legend 16 years his senior.They believe in life after love(Image: WireImage)They met at Madonna’s 1985 wedding to Sean Penn and went on to have a brief, but passionate, fling. They even lived together for a short while, before their busy schedules forced them to part.Cher has since rated the pint-sized action star as among her top five lovers. She said: “It could have been a great big romance because I was crazy for him.”Julia Roberts and Lyle LovettRemember when actress Julia Roberts got married to that country star with a questionable hairdo? You’re not imagining things – they really did tie the knot in 1993 after dating for just three weeks.He bagged himself a pretty woman(Image: Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)They first met on the set of 1992 film The Player, but it wasn’t until the following summer that their whirlwind romance took flight. Their church wedding in rural Indiana, US, was apparently arranged with just 72 hours notice.When they split less than two years later in March 1995, Julia insisted she had no regrets. “What we had doesn’t come close to the mistake category,” she said.George Clooney and Lisa SnowdonWay back in 2000, Lisa Snowdon was a little-known model while George Clooney was well on his way to becoming Hollywood royalty. The pair met on the set of a Martini ad and went on to date for five years.Everyone was jealous(Image: Getty Images)Lisa, who was 11 years younger than the actor, often visited him in Los Angeles between photo shoots. She has since spoken fondly about their “wild” romance.“George was charming, a really nice man, good fun and we had a great time,” she said. “Sometimes I think it will be written on my tombstone — ‘George Clooney once dated Lisa Snowdon.’”Chris Evans and Billie PiperBillie Piper was just 17 when she first met Chris Evans, then 34 years old. He was already a household name thanks to TV hits The Big Breakfast and TFI Friday, while she was an up-and-coming pop star.TFI over(Image: Getty Images)The pair shocked the world by getting hitched in a £200 Las Vegas ceremony in May 2001, having dated for just five months. They then settled into married life at Chris’ home in Surrey.Although it couldn’t last – they separated in 2004 – they remain good friends. Billie said: “We had a really amazing time together.”Lembit Öpik and Gabriela IrimiaIn ‘bizarre couple’ terms, this was the big one. This fever dream of a romance unfolded in the early noughties, when Lembit was a Liberal Democrat MP and Gabriela was one of the Cheeky Girls.The Romanian pop duo, which also includes her twin sister Monica, are famous for hits like 2002’s Cheeky Song (Touch My Bum). Their political leanings, if any, are unclear.Gabriela and Lembit spent more than a year together and were briefly engaged before splitting in July 2008. The politician lost his seat in the 2010 elections, later admitting: “When we were on the doorstep it was my relationships that people kept talking about.”Ryan Reynolds and Alanis MorrisetteIt’s not ironic, it’s just unexpected. Long before Scarlett Johansson and now-wife Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds was engaged to Alanis Morrisette.It’s not ironic(Image: Getty Images)The actor met the You Oughta Know singer in 2002, when they were both guests at Drew Barrymore’s birthday party. For the next few years they were inseparable, getting engaged when Ryan popped the question in June 2004.Article continues belowBut it wasn’t to be. They split for good in February 2007 and the heartbreak inspired Alanis’ 2008 album Flavors of Entanglement. She said at the time: “It’s really about my grief.” More

Infamous East End villain Reggie Kray showed a softer side in a letter to his mother Violet from London’s Brixton Prison, where he had been jailed for the murder of Jack ‘The Hat’ McVitieJames Podesta and James Caven22:14, 31 Jul 2025Reggie Kray and Frances Kray on their wedding day(Image: © GETTY IMAGES / EXPRESS)Murderous gangster Reggie Kray was a fan of yoga and crooner Des O’Connor, a never-before-seen letter from him reveals.The notorious East End villain showed an unexpected softer side in the letter to his mother Violet from Brixton Prison in April 1969. This was just a month after he had been jailed for life for the murder of Kray henchman Jack ‘The Hat’ McVitie.He appeared to be on a health kick as he told his mother he was doing yoga and suggested she put honey instead of sugar in her tea. Reggie added that he had just watched TV and ‘the Des O’Connor show was good with Patricia Noble and Sacha Distel’. He was in a philosophical mood and confided in his mother that he hoped everyone could have a ‘fresh start and leave the past behind us’.The crook then suggested that they could begin a new life in the countryside as ‘country life is better than living in London’. Reggie disclosed to Violet he had been visited by a woman named Carol, believed to be Carol Skinner who rented the basement flat at 97 Evering Road, in north London’s Stoke Newington, where he killed McVitie in October 1967. He signed off by telling her that he was about to go to church and ‘I’ll be thinking of you while I’m there’.East End gangster twins Ronnie (right) and Reggie Kray (Image: Getty Images)The letter is part of a collection of Kray mementos which are being sold by the son of Charlie Kray’s long term partner, Diane Buffini. She was with the Reggie and Ronnie’s older brother for 27 years and kept hold of the material until her death last year. Ronnie Kray’s gun licence, which comes with a reference letter describing him as ‘responsible, solvent and trustworthy’, and Charlie’s 18 carat gold and diamond ‘pinkie’ ring are also up for sale.The gun licence, serial number 00917, was issued by Bethnal Green Borough Office on May 30, 1964. The items are tipped to sell for a combined £15,000 at auctioneers Bearnes, Hampton & Littlewood, of Exeter, Devon.Auction specialist Brian Goodison-Blanks said: “The collection has been consigned by Dean Buffini, the son of Diane Buffini. One of the items consigned is Ronald Kray’s gun licence issued in Bethnal Green in 1964 with the address at Valance Road. Among the letters are several dating from 1969 soon after Ron and Reggie were jailed and one from a lady signed Carol.Reggie loved the dulcet tones of Des O’Connor(Image: PA)The letters and photographs are a unique historical archive that shows the relationship between the three brothers and their mother Violet Kray.”Also included in the auctioned Charlie Kray’s 18ct gold and diamond ‘pinkie’ ring that he wore up until his death. The Reggie Kray letter shows an unexpected softer side as he talks about Des O’Connor, yoga and putting honey in your tea. You can’t write a comprehensive history of London without acknowledging the impact of the Krays on culture and society at the time.”There’s an appetite for crime and crime history among collectors and these Kray items which are such personal pieces should attract a lot of interest.”Reggie also liked a yoga pose every now and again(Image: Getty Images)The Kray twins were jailed for life in 1969 after an Old Bailey trail for the murders of George Cornell and McVitie. Ronnie died in 1995 after suffering a heart attack at Broadmoor Hospital. Reggie Kray died aged 66 in 2000 after being released from prison on compassionate grounds. Their older brother Charlie was a professional boxer and convicted criminal who died in 2000.The sale takes place on August 12. The four page handwritten letter, which is stamped HM Prison, Brixton, reads: “I just finished watching TV, the Des O’Connor show was good with Patricia Noble and Sacha Distel. Well Mum I’m going to do a few yoga exercises then I’ll listen to Radio Luxemberg. Try honey every day in tea instead of sugar – it’s good for your health.Article continues below”We will soon be going to church and I’ll be thinking of you while I’m there. I hope we can all have a fresh start sometime in the future, then we can all settle in the country and leave the past behind us. The country life is better than living in London.” More

EXCLUSIVE: Daily Star was invited to an exclusive Clarkson’s Farm event, but series favourite Kaleb Cooper was noticeably missing from the afternoon’s festivities22:03, 31 Jul 2025Clarkson’s Farm favourite Kaleb Cooper was forced to pull out of a recent event with Jeremy Clarkson.Daily Star was invited to Jeremy’s Hawkstone VIP Summer Party and sadly Kaleb was missing. However, Jeremy was there and during his speech the Top Gear presenter informed the crowd: “Excuse my dishevelled state, we began the harvest at Diddly Squat this very morning!””Set off about 8:30, Kaleb’s first time ever with his new combine, doing the combining.”Unfortunately, the Clarkson’s Farm regular was faced with some difficulty out in the field: “8:45, combine broke down. Got the combine mended. Then, and this is true, for the first time in four months it rained. So, that soaked all the oats we were supposed to be harvesting.”Jeremy apologised for Kaleb’s absence(Image: PRIME VIDEO)”I rushed over here but he sends his apologies, he’s sitting waiting for the moisture levels to drop so that he can get cracking because we know we’re on for a shocking harvest this year.””If there are any farmers here, they’ll tell you the same thing. I mean, last year was the second worst recorded ever and we think this year is going to be even worse because it just hasn’t rained.”Cooper was facing a tough day on the farm and decided to back out of the Hawkstone event(Image: PRIME )Clarkson then thanked the crowd for their support and explained that his Hawkstone Lager has been doing so well, he’s decided to make a TV advert.However, you won’t be seeing it on your screens anytime soon: ” More

EXCLUSIVE: Love Island 2025 has been one of the most drama-filled series in recent years, but this could be the reason behind the show’s newfound success21:47, 31 Jul 2025Love Island’s girl group drama is “key to series’ success” after years of declining viewership.The 2025 series has arguably been more focussed on the drama between the female contestants rather than the blossoming romance among the couples.Speaking exclusively to Daily Star on behalf of Betfred, PR Specialist Kayley Cornelius has revealed that this is actually a good thing – but producers should be careful about relying on this in future series.She explained: “On the one hand, the divide within the girl group this year is everything the producers could have hoped for. The drama has kept viewers hooked tuning in night after night and has likely played a huge role in reversing the series’ dwindling viewership.”Kayley noted that the situation has “reignited the social buzz” around the show and sparked Gen Z’s love for the ITV reality show once more.Shakira and Meg recently exchanged cross words during a challenge(Image: ITV)”One reason I believe this year’s series has been successful is that viewers feel more connected to the cast, amplified by the clearly visible divide among the girls. As a result viewers themselves appear split, feeling compelled to take sides and support their chosen ‘team’.””The lack of strong romantic connections or solid couples has allowed the girls’ drama to take centre stage. In previous years such rows would rarely have been central to the storyline, so from that perspective it is easy to see why producers may have been reluctant to intervene. Without the drama, they might not have had much of a show left.”The girls tried to put the “divide” behind them, but things quickly blew up again(Image: ITV)However, Kayley said that the producers should be wary of relying on arguments to drive the story in the long-term as it could prove a “risky strategy for ITV if they attempt to replicate it in future series”.”They are taking a high-stakes gamble with their brand image which they have worked hard to redeem, yet they could soon find themselves back at square one and signs already suggest they may be heading into muddy waters.”It seems the broadcaster is beginning to pay the price of this fandom culture, with thousands of viewers lodging complaints with Ofcom about alleged bullying towards Shakira. Many more have admitted to struggling while watching her emotional breakdown, during which she spoke openly about feeling pushed out of the group and the perceived ‘fakeness’ of the other girls.”The drama has arguably been the main focus of this season(Image: ITV)The PR specialist pointed out that the main issue is that “there are always two side to every argument” so it is hard to “strike the right balance while remaining impartial,” careful not to show favour to one contestant or another.”With the cast due to leave the villa next week the real test is about to begin. I suspect that in the weeks that follow, we may start to get a clearer picture of what actually happened behind the scenes and how accurately it was portrayed on screen.””Although things may appear to be improving for Love Island, I would argue that the waters remain rocky. It might only take one major scandal to bring the entire show to an end.”Join the Daily Star’s WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots moreThe Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join us!Through the app, we’ll send you the sassiest showbiz stories, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens…along with the latest breaking news of course.To join our community, all you have to do to join isclick on this link, select ‘Join Chat’ and you’re in!No one will be able to see who has sign up and no one can send messages except for the Daily Star team. We also treat our community members to competitions, special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.CLICK HERE TO JOINArticle continues belowHave you joined Threads? Follow Daily Star to keep up to date on all things showbiz hereWant all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter More

Singer Myleene Klass is looking gorgeous in a new sun-soaked selfie and fans can barely contain themselves as they gush over her washboard abs and incredible curves21:37, 31 Jul 2025This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreMyleene Klass is hotter than ever in brand new bikini snaps.The singer recently showed off her washboard abs in a gorgeous geometric print bikini – the top featured a halter neck design while the bottoms flaunted her hourglass waist.Her long brunette locks blew in the wind as she gazed into the sunset, one hand in her hair while the other held onto the side of the boat.The songstress covered her face with black sunglasses and topped off her look with red lipstick. Myleene took to Instagram to post the snap and added the caption: “Fair winds and following seas. Geometric bikini @lascanaofficial @freemans #BrandAmbassador.”Myleene posed in the black and white two piece(Image: Myleene Klass/Instagram)Fans rushed to her comment section to gush over her “incredible figure” and gorgeous bikini. One person typed: “Fabulous,” while another person branded her an “absolute babe”.Fans can copy her look by heading to Freemans’ website(Image: Freemans)”Looking amazing,” said one comment, a second read: “Sooo pretty,” while a third added: “Such a lovely positive lady, you are amazing, beautiful inside and out and a fantastic mum.”The former Hear’Say singer recently paid homage to her I’m A Celebrity jungle days with a photoshoot wearing a bright white bikini.Klass recently sported a white bikini very similar to her iconic 2006 look(Image: INSTAGRAM)Klass appeared on the ITV competition show back in 2006 and famously showered in the creek wearing a skimpy white ensemble, very similar to her most recent seaside look.Myleene wore a white top twisted at the front paired with matching bottoms, soaking up the sunshine while relaxing on a yacht.Join the Daily Star’s WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots moreThe Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join us!Through the app, we’ll send you the sassiest showbiz stories, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens…along with the latest breaking news of course.To join our community, all you have to do to join isclick on this link, select ‘Join Chat’ and you’re in!No one will be able to see who has sign up and no one can send messages except for the Daily Star team. We also treat our community members to competitions, special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.CLICK HERE TO JOINArticle continues belowHave you joined Threads? Follow Daily Star to keep up to date on all things showbiz hereWant all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter More

Julian Story had gone missing and is now believed to have been murdered by his partner Tamika Chesser in Australia, now the man’s head has been discovered by a horrified dog walker20:54, 31 Jul 2025Tamika Chesser shot to fame on Beauty and the Geek in 2010(Image: @tamikachesser/Instagram)The severed head of a man allegedly murdered by his Beauty and the Geek star girlfriend has been found.The dog and its owner had been walking through scrubland in the Australian city of Port Lincoln, about 250km – or about 155 miles – west of Adelaide. While the pair had been walking through the landscape, the head was discovered by the walker, though the dog appeared to run off with the had and did not return.It is now believed that the severed head is that of Julian Story, a 39-year-old man who was allegedly brutally murdered and dismembered by his partner Tamika Chesser. Tamika, 34, first shot to fame when she starred in the reality show Beauty and the Geek back in 2010.According to the Sun, police in the Australian state of South Australia confirmed that a head had been discovered. In a statement released on Thursday (July 31), South Australia Police boss Darren Fielke confirmed that other remains had also been found.Julian Story is alleged to have been murdered and dismembered by Tamika Chesser(Image: South Australian Police)”Earlier today, police received information from a member of the public in Port Lincoln that they had located in a scrub area what appeared to be a human skull,” Fielke explained. “There are some walking tracks through there, my understanding is the person who contacted us today was walking their dog in the area.”The dog ran off into the scrub, it didn’t come back when called,” he added. “They had to walk into the scrub area to find it; [the remains] were not buried – they were quite out in the open.”Formal identification is now set to take place, with tests being carried out on the remains to confirm that they are those of missing Julian. Fielke added that Julian’s family have been made aware of the discovery and are now being told to prepare for any information regarding his disappearance and alleged murder.Tamika is currently being held in a mental health facility(Image: Facebook)”Julian’s family have been contacted today and provided an update in relation to what has been located and what the ongoing process is from here,” the police boss added. “Hopefully we can give them some comfort that we have found all the remains of Julian.”Aussie police first made the horrific discovery in June, after they were called to deal with a small fire that had broken out. Julian’s partner Tamika was later arrested and detained under the Mental Health Act some two days afterwards.However, while police are keen to launch a full investigation, officers are unable to speak to the star, as she is currently being held in a mental health facility. She has, however, already appeared before a magistrates court in Port Lincoln via video link, in connection for three different crimes.Police believe Tamika was seen wearing all back just hours after the alleged murder took place(Image: 9 News Australia)Tamika stands charged with murder after police released CCTV footage of a woman believed to be Tamika in the wake of the alleged murder. She is also accused of perverting the course of justice by disposing of human remains, as well as assaulting a police officer.Court documents found that officers discovered Tamika sitting in the back garden of her home – dressed fully in black wearing a head covering – “in a catatonic and unresponsive state”. Police have admitted there is no obvious motive that has been found yet, and that there are “a lot of unanswered questions” in the case.Article continues belowFor the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters. More

This Morning presenter Cat Deeley and her husband Patrick Kielty announced their split this week after more than a decade of marriage. The couple share two children19:24, 31 Jul 2025Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley(Image: PA)Cat Deeley has shared a poignant memory from before her luxurious wedding to Patrick Kielty. The TV presenters announced their separation earlier this week, bringing an end to over a decade of marriage.This Morning host Cat, 48, and Northern Irish presenter Patrick, 54, first met while co-presenting BBC’s Fame Academy in 2002, going on to host two series of the show together that year.The couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony in Rome in September 2012, just nine months after they started dating. The ceremony, attended by 100 guests, was conducted by Belfast-based priest Father Gary Donegan.In a previous interview, Cat revealed that her grandfather was unable to attend the destination wedding due to poor health. Although the former couple recorded the ceremony for him, he sadly passed away before he could watch it.Cat took on the role of presenting This Morning in London while Patrick hosts The Late Late Show in Dublin(Image: PA Archive)When asked about her “biggest regret” by Grazia magazine in 2017, Cat opened up about the heartbreak, saying: “He died before he saw it. The good thing is we love it and, after two glasses of wine, Patrick and I put it on like a pair of losers.”The couple’s fans were shocked when details of their wedding emerged, especially since Patrick had denied being engaged just months before they tied the knot. Cat had already chosen her wedding dress before Patrick had even popped the question.During a 2021 appearance on Lorraine, she revealed: “Mine [wedding dress] is in the cupboard somewhere but I’d actually already got my dress before… It wasn’t because I was feeling lucky, I promise! It was a couture dress from Alexander McQueen – a shift white dress.”She continued: “It was so beautiful that I just couldn’t not buy it and I hadn’t even met Paddy at that stage. I literally put it in my cupboard and I was like I’ll wear it to something… I’ll wear it to some awards. There you go.”Cat and Patrick have two children together. In a statement announcing their separation this week, they said: “We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated. There is no other party involved.Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley were trying to juggle their work commitments(Image: Getty Images North America)”We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected. There will be no further comment.”Cat’s rise to fame began when she presented SM:TV Live alongside Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly. She met Patrick in 2002 on Fame Academy, but they didn’t start dating until almost a decade later.RTE presenter Patrick claimed he won Cat over with a grand romantic gesture. In an interview with The Daily Mail, he said: “Unless someone was stupid enough to get on a plane, nothing would have happened.”Patrick explained: “Cat was in LA and I was in Northern Ireland, so I texted her to wish her a happy birthday. When she said she was having a birthday lunch at the Beverly Hills Hotel, I said I’d be there. She told me to go to sleep as I was drunk.Article continues below”That was 2am. I got up at 5am, went to Belfast airport for 6am, got the 7.15am flight to Heathrow, landed at 8.30am, took off again at 9.40am and arrived in LA at 1.15pm.”The couple had previously resided in the US while Cat hosted So You Think You Can Dance, but they relocated back to the UK in 2020. More