Latest news with #DJFatTony
Daily Mail
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE DJ Fat Tony discusses growing up gay on a 'rough' council estate with 'skinhead brothers' and reflects on 'never coming out' to his loved ones ahead of Pride event
DJ Fat Tony has discussed what it was like growing up gay on a council estate in a candid new interview with MailOnline. The legendary music star, 58, real name Tony Marnach, rose to fame on London's club scene in the 1980s and became best friends with Boy George and Kate Moss. He is now the go-to DJ on the celebrity scene and a favourite at the Beckhams' big family events, such as Brooklyn's 2022 wedding to Nicola Peltz. But it wasn't always such a glamorous lifestyle for Tony, who battled addiction for many years and grew up on a council estate in Battersea alongside his 'skinhead brothers', mother and father. Ahead of his return to Ministry of Pride on Saturday, Tony opened up on coming to terms with his sexuality and how his family reacted. He said: 'I didn't have to come out. My parents always knew I was. 'I grew up on a council estate in Battersea, where at that point in time it was pretty rough. My brothers were all skinheads, and it was a lot. It was a tough time growing up, but I never had to come out of the closet and say, "Okay, hey, I'm gay", my mum and Dad always knew from a really young age.' He continued: 'For me, I was very, very lucky in that sense. 'But at the same time, as you go through your teenage years, and you discover who you really are, it's always a big thing, because we give it so much power, and society gives it so much power, especially back then.' Tony seemed happier than ever during our chat, after recently tying the knot with his partner Stavros Agapiou, 32, in a lavish ceremony in London. Going on to discuss friends accepting his sexuality, he said: 'The thing about it is if anyone has got a problem with it, they're not really your friend, because friendship isn't about who you sleep with in bed. It's about who you are as a person, you know. 'My friendship circle is not based on who we have sex with, therefore, why should it be any different? If you come out to a friend, and you trust that person, nothing should change except for the fact that you've been honest, and they should respect it.' Tony and Stavros were surrounded by celeb pals including Davina McCall, Boy George, Kelly Osbourne and Gemma Collins at their wedding, held at the Welsh Chapel in Charing Cross in May. Tony had carefully picked the 19th-century church where he began his career when he was just 18. The pair have been engaged since October 2023 after Tony popped the question during a romantic trip to New York. Following the nuptials, Tony is preparing for an epic DJ set at Ministry of Pride, a full-venue takeover on Friday July 5, with tickets available online from £16.95. The all-LGBTQ+ lineup also includes Catz 'N Dogz, FAFF, Josh Harrison, Princess Julia, Reenie, Tete Bang, and NOT BAD FOR A GIRL. The multi-room event will span house, disco, underground beats, drag performance, and more, embodying the spirit of queer celebration and unapologetic freedom at one of South London's most iconic venues. Speaking ahead of the event, Tony said: 'You don't have to be LGBT to attend, you can be an ally. You can be anything you want to be. 'It's about the music and bringing everyone together. You're going to have fun, you can be who you want to be, regardless of how you identify. The whole thing is about love.' On the importance of Pride, he added: 'It's not about the partying and all of that stuff, that comes much later. It's about visibility. It's about saying, we're here, this is who we are. It's about how you do it and how you celebrate Pride that's important. 'We have pride month for many reasons, so that people don't think that they're alone, and don't end up wanting to kill themselves because they can't cope with their sexuality, or who they are, or society tells them that they're wrong. 'Pride is about letting people know that they're not alone, that they can exist.' Tony celebrated 18 years of sobriety in January, and often opens up about transforming his life to remind people to never give up. Tony discovered drugs when he was 18 and would convince himself that he couldn't DJ unless he was high, sometimes going four or five nights straight without sleeping. At one point, he was homeless and had no teeth due to his habit. Tony had an epiphany and he soon quit drugs cold turkey, spending six months in rehab to beat the addiction. He explained: 'After 28 years of putting people through hell every day of the week, you know the support and love that I got from the right people was welcomed. 'The wrong ones always are like rats off a sinking ship they go, and you know, the good thing about recovery is, the trash takes itself out.' On working in an industry where he is surrounded by alcohol and drugs, Tony added: 'We live in a society where there's a pub every 200 yards, and it's more acceptable to drink than it is not to drink. That's the society we live in. 'So for someone like me that made a conscious decision not to drink or to take drugs, I don't find it a problem because I am the problem. The other people enjoying themselves, that is up to them. I'm not one of these people that think, "Oh, my God! I can't be around that," I probably have more fun than all of them put together being sober. 'People can go out and party and and go home and go to work. The world isn't full of addicts. I on the other hand, know that I can't do that stuff. I know I don't want to do that stuff. That's the difference, and that's why I don't miss it. 'So going to work and being in that environment, it never crosses my mind. What does cross my mind is how blessed I am not to be the last one standing every night of the week.'
Daily Mail
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
DJ Fat Tony, 58, looks loved-up with new husband Stavros Agapiou, 32, as they make first public appearance at Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition party after lavish wedding
DJ Fat Tony and new husband Stavros Agapiou looked loved-up on Wednesday as they made their first public appearance following their lavish London wedding. Tony, 58, showed off his impeccable style in a grey Prada jacket, teamed with matching trousers and black loafers. Stavros, 32, wore a tight fitting navy top and beige cargo shorts, completing the look with black Prada loafers. The pair looked happier than ever at the star-studded event, with Lady Amelia Windsor, Emma Weymouth and Trinny Woodall also in attendance. Held every year since 1769, the RA's Summer Exhibition celebrates contemporary art spanning mediums including painting, printmaking, film and photography. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. It is the world's oldest open submission exhibition, meaning anyone can submit their work to be considered for inclusion. When Tony wed Stavros at their star-studded nuptials last month the extravagance and attention to detail was clear for all to see. Tony and Stavros, who have been engaged since October 2023, made it official at the Welsh Chapel in Charing Cross (formerly the Limelight nightclub), before heading to the swanky Londoner Hotel for the glitzy reception. And no expense was spared for their special day as they treated their guests to flamboyant Greek dancing, drag acts and even gospel music. The wedding attracted some big names too including the likes of Gemma Collins , Davina McCall, Coronation Street 's Claire Sweeney and Kelly Osbourne . Tony had carefully picked the 19th-century church where he began his career when he was just 18. The Soho venue was a favourite spot for Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, George Michael and Bob Geldof. For the blessing Tony and Stavros Dior Homme suits while The King's Voices choir gave gospel renditions of I'll Be Loving You Always, Higher and Higher and You Got the Love. Even the couple's dogs were in attendance as ring bearers as they wore special wedding outfits themselves. Tony was also surprised with an unlikely wedding cake as he danced the night away with his new husband. In snaps shared by Tony's pals on social media, it was revealed that the wedding cake was far from an understated affair, with each layer boasting letters which spelt out the word 'c**t.' Another snap showed the pair flaunting their best dance moves at the reception after exchanging their vows. Following the ceremony, Tony also took to the stage alongside his new husband to thank the guests in attendance, with the stunning venue decorated with white roses for the occasion. For his special day, Tony was among the first to arrive at the chapel and was joined by singer Boy George as he prepared to exchange vows with his partner Stavros. The renowned music star, real name Tony Marnach, cut a very dapper figure in an all-black suit featuring a silver brooch. Stavros arrived not long after Tony, and opted for an all-white look, which was made up of a blazer, waistcoat and quirky shorts. Davina turned heads in a bright orange mini dress as she arrived to the chapel holding hands with her partner Michael Douglas. Kelly Osbourne opted for a black sleeveless dress while her locks were styled into a sleek bun for the day. Others in attendance included EastEnders stars Patsy Palmer and Jessie Wallace and fellow actress Jaime Winstone.
Daily Mail
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Inside DJ Fat Tony's star-studded wedding to Stavros Agapiou complete with flamboyant Greek dancing, gospel music, A-list guests and romantic touches
When DJ Fat Tony wed Stavros Agapiou at their star-studded nuptials last month the extravagance and attention to detail was clear for all to see. Tony, 58, and Stavros, 32, who have been engaged since October 2023, made it official at the Welsh Chapel in Charing Cross (formerly the Limelight nightclub), before heading to the swanky Londoner Hotel for the glitzy reception. And no expense was spared for their special day as they treated their guests to flamboyant Greek dancing, drag acts and even gospel music. The wedding attracted some big names too including the likes of Gemma Collins, Davina McCall, Coronation Street 's Claire Sweeney and Kelly Osbourne. Tony had carefully picked the 19th-century church where he began his career when he was just 18. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. The Soho venue was a favourite spot for Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, George Michael and Bob Geldof. For the blessing Tony and Stavros Dior Homme suits while The King's Voices choir gave gospel renditions of I'll Be Loving You Always, Higher and Higher and You Got the Love. Even the couple's dogs were in attendance as ring bearers as they wore special wedding outfits themselves. Tony was also surprised with an unlikely wedding cake as he danced the night away with his new husband. In snaps shared by Tony's pals on social media, it was revealed that the wedding cake was far from an understated affair, with each layer boasting letters which spelt out the word 'c**t.' Another snap showed the pair flaunting their best dance moves at the reception after exchanging their vows. Following the ceremony, Tony also took to the stage alongside his new husband to thank the guests in attendance, with the stunning venue decorated with white roses for the occasion. Claire and Boy George were ready to party the night away For his special day, Tony was among the first to arrive at the chapel and was joined by singer Boy George as he prepared to exchange vows with his partner Stavros. The renowned music star, real name Tony Marnach, cut a very dapper figure in an all-black suit featuring a silver brooch. Stavros arrived not long after Tony, and opted for an all-white look, which was made up of a blazer, waistcoat and quirky shorts. Davina McCall turned heads in a bright orange mini dress as she arrived to the chapel holding hands with her partner Michael Douglas. Kelly Osbourne opted for a black sleeveless dress while her locks were styled into a sleek bun for the day. Others in attendance included EastEnders stars Patsy Palmer and Jessie Wallace and fellow actress Jaime Winstone. Earlier in the day, Boy George got ready in the hotel with Claire and her son Jaxon, who she shares with her ex Daniel Reilly. Claire, 54, who is believed to be serving as a bridesmaid, took to Instagram to share some very glamorous photographs from her hotel room. With Tony being hugely popular on the celebrity circuit, it's little surprise that the nuptials hosted an eclectic star-studded guest list and an A-list performance from none other than Kylie Minogue for the evening celebrations. A source told The Sun ahead of the wedding: 'Tony is one of the most popular people on the London celebrity circuit and his wedding is going to be packed full of stars. 'No one had Kate, Gemma and Claire in a bridal party on their bingo cards this year, though. It's going to be incredible to see them lining up together.' They added: 'Tony and Stavros have put a lot of thought into their big day and it's going to be one to remember. As for having Kylie singing at their evening do, it's iconic.' In 2023, Tony opened up about the poignant choice of church for their wedding, noting that he planned to wed in a church in Earls Court which honoured those who died of HIV and AIDS in the eighties and nineties. As was Kelly Osbourne Comedian Grace Campbell also shared a snap of a keepsake from the wedding, with the stern warning: 'Do not drink' He said at the time: 'This church was the only place that had love and compassion for our community. I want to get married there because, for me, it's full circle. It's for everybody that didn't make it to that point.' Earlier this month, much of the reported guest list stepped out to party with DJ Fat Tony at his star-studded stag do. The pair have been engaged since October 2023 after Tony popped the question during a romantic trip to New York.
The Sun
07-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Gemma Collins ‘feels like she's dying' as she issues worrying new health update amid pneumonia battle
GEMMA Collins has said she 'feels like she is dying' as she continues to battle viral pneumonia. The TOWIE legend, 44, has been floored by the illness for nearly a month, but she's still powering through with public appearances — despite feeling 'really breathless' and completely drained of energy. Gemma shared the shock health update with fans from her sickbed, posting a photo to Instagram showing her lying down while hooked up to a drip. 4 4 4 She wrote: 'Hey guys sorry been quiet i have Pneumonia. I'm not as fast or on it as I usually am on the daily. I am still honouring my work commitments which is taking every bit of energy I have but will be back entertaining you all soon.' She also revealed she'd been under medical care for weeks and was finding it hard to bounce back. Giving an update, Gemma admitted that because the pneumonia is viral, she is unable to take antibiotics. She told The Mirror: "I've been really short of breath and obviously I have work commitments that I would never not turn up to. I'm old-school, I would always fulfill my work commitments.' Gemma confessed that she's finding the ordeal, which has lasted almost a month, "shocking" and any respite she had from taking prescribed steroids has gone. She explained: "It was DJ Fat Tony's wedding and I had to take them to get through that, but I'm off them now and the sickness is really kicking back in." The star said she felt frustrated because she's normally so full of energy. She finished: "…Now I get really breathless really quickly and I feel like I'm dying.' The reality star hasn't needed hospital treatment but says she's relying on her doctor, who's been checking in on her at home. Despite doctors urging her to rest, Gemma's still pushing on — though she admits it goes against her nature to slow down. Gemma Collins shows off her two stone weight loss in pink cycling shorts The TV personality confessed she has one job to do this weekend, which she's determined to honour, and then will be able to relax for two weeks. She admitted that she hates taking time off and it makes her feel guilty. Earlier this week, Gemma's post was flooded with support from fans and celeb pals, including X Factor duo Jedward who wrote: 'You giving us all so much energy and good vibes! Get your rest! Wouldn't want anything to happen to you.' Former EastEnders and Celebrity Big Brother star Danniella Westbrook also showed love, dropping a heart emoji in the comments. Even as she battles the nasty lung infection, Gemma isn't missing her latest event. Today (7th June) she's teaming up with Trainline at King's Cross to launch SlayStation: a glam pit stop designed to help partygoers kick off their big nights out in style. Fans heading through the station will be treated to makeup, hair, and glow-up touch-ups from pros, with the GC herself fronting the fun.
Daily Mail
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Gemma Collins 'feels like she's dying' amid devastating battle with pneumonia as she's left struggling to breathe and forced to undergo X-rays at home
Gemma Collins has confessed she feels like she's 'dying' amid her devastating battle with pneumonia in a latest health update. The former TOWIE star, 44, revealed earlier this week that she'd battling the condition for almost a month, before taking to her Instagram Stories on Friday showing herself undergoing X-rays at her Essex home. Gemma explained that her condition had been leaving her breathless 'really quickly' but due to medics diagnosing it as viral, antibiotics would be ineffective. She told The Mirror: 'It's shocking, I've had it now for over three weeks and I had steroids given to me by my doctor. It was DJ Fat Tony's wedding and I had to take them to get through that,' 'But I'm off them now and the sickness is really kicking back in. It's so frustrating because I normally have so much energy and I'm always loving life, but now I get really breathless really quickly and I feel like I'm dying.' From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. She revealed earlier this week that she'd battling the condition for almost a month, before taking to her Instagram Stories showing herself undergoing X-rays at her Essex home Pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs, usually caused by an infection. Most people get better in two to four weeks, but babies, older people, and people with heart or lung conditions are at risk of getting seriously ill and may need treatment in hospital. Taking to her Stories Gemma shared snaps as she underwent X-rays while praising medical staff for their care. She wrote: 'Thank you to all the amazing doctors helping me your real life angels'. Announcing the news of her condition on Wednesday, Gemma shared a photo of herself in bed looking poorly in bed. She wrote: 'Hey guys sorry been quiet i have Pneumonia. I'm not as fast or on it as I usually am on the daily. 'I am still honouring my work commitments which is taking every bit of energy I have but will be back entertaining you all soon.' On her Story she added an update as she showed she was on a drip and had been visited by a doctor. One post that showed a drip in her arm read: 'I'm having to take it easy which is not like me very slow and get so out of breath and tired so quick.' Gemma also shared a snap with her pet pooch Gucci who she said was 'giving her lots of cuddles.' Another showed a doctor at her house as she said: 'Thank you to everyone helping me I've had pneumonia for three weeks and honestly can't thank everyone all the docs helping me.' It comes after just last week she was seen in good spirits attending the Chelsea Flower Show. Gemma, who has gone from a size 26 to a size 20 in just three months on weight loss jab Mounjaro, displayed her slimmer frame in a sheer gown with caped sleeves that she wore over a slip. She also attended DJ Fat Tony's wedding over the weekend where she was a bridesmaid. It comes after the star claimed she's 'saving the NHS ' by taking Mounjaro after losing a 'life-changing' two stone. Gemma said she'll no longer need to go to the NHS with an 'obesity related illness' thanks to the help of the medication. Announcing the news of her condition on Wednesday, she wrote: 'Hey guys sorry been quiet i have Pneumonia. I'm not as fast or on it as I usually am on the daily. She revealed in January that she'd been taking the NHS approved Mounjaro injections and has left fans stunned with her incredible transformation. She told The Mirror: 'I've lost so much weight, you wouldn't believe it. It's the only thing I've managed to lose weight on without putting myself on a stressful diet. 'I think I'm actually saving the NHS. I won't be going to the NHS with an obesity related illness so I won't be putting any strain on it. I'm loving life, honey.' WHAT IS PNEUMONIA? Pneumonia is a type of chest infection that affects the tiny air sacs in the lungs. The condition causes these sacs to be become inflammed and fill with fluid, making it harder to breathe. Pneumonia is caused by bacteria or viruses, with the most common being Streptococcus pneumoniae. It affects between five and 11 out of every 1,000 adults every year in the UK. Anyone can suffer from pneumonia, however, at-risk groups include: Babies and young children People over 65 Those with long-term heart, lung or kidney disease People with cancer, particularly those having chemotherapy Smokers Those on drugs that suppress their immune systems Antibiotics or mechanical ventilator use in hospitals also raise the risk. Symptoms include Coughing up mucus Fever Chest pain Loss of appetite Fatigue In severe cases, sufferers may cough up blood, vomit or have a rapid heart rate. Treatment is usually antibiotics, which may need to be given intravenously in hospital in severe cases.
