Latest news with #InTheFootstepsOfKillers
The Irish Sun
08-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Who was Ken Brown? Wealthy businessman shot at point blank range on his farm
KEN Brown was shot to death in Leicestershire during the summer of 1994. Here we take a look at what happened more than three decades ago in this shocking unsolved murder. 3 Ken Brown was shot at point-blank range on his farm on August 25, 1994 Credit: BBC 3 Despite numerous appeals and a cash reward being offered for information, the crime remains unsolved Credit: YouTube On the evening of August 25, 1994, Ken Brown, then aged 56, was tending to his chickens and geese at his £750,000 rural home located on the edge of Barrow-upon-Soar, Leicestershire. Despite having recently installed extra security measures due to concerns about safety, he was shot at point-blank range outside his isolated farmhouse. Ken was discovered dead in his chicken coop, the victim of a single, close-range gunshot wound. The murder took place at dusk, when he was carrying out his everyday evening routine. read more on true crime The isolated nature of the property and lack of witnesses coming forward made the investigation particularly challenging for police. Recluse Ken's neighbours reportedly said he lived reclusively. Some even believed he had been living in fear before his death, which may have been why he Because of his financial success — the victim co-owned a chain of pubs, restaurants and hotels — possible motives including robbery or a personal vendetta were considered by investigators. Most read in The Sun But there was no immediate proof of theft and the murder weapon was never recovered. The lack of forensic evidence and absence of a clear motive hindered police progress. In The Footsteps Of Killers probes Suzy Lamplugh's murder The case became one of Leicestershire's most notorious unsolved crimes, drawing significant media attention and public interest. Extensive investigation The police investigation was extensive; there were numerous appeals – including one on Crimewatch – and a cash reward was offered for information. In 2004, Det Ch Insp Jim Donaghy said he believed somebody in Barrow could hold clues to unravelling the case. He said: "People do talk, especially if they feel the attention is going off and the police are losing interest. "That will never happen in this case. We constantly review these sorts of inquiries, murders and homicides. 3 Prof David Wilson and Emilia Fox investigate the crime on In the Footsteps of Killers Credit: Channel 4 "So if anyone has any more information I would ask them to come forward, pass that to me and let us be the judge of that and assess." Anyone with information should contact Leicestershire Police or ring Crimestoppers. Despite these efforts, Ken's killers have never been found. In the Footsteps of Killers Series three, episode four of the Channel 4 true crime docuseries investigates the killing of Ken Brown. Presented by Silent Witness star Each episode sees the presenters travel to the scene of a cold case, re-examine evidence, interview witnesses and attempt to uncover new leads using the latest forensic science and criminological research. The episode of In the Footsteps of Killers examining the murder of Ken Brown airs on Channel 4 at 10 pm on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
Scottish Sun
08-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Who was Ken Brown? Wealthy businessman shot at point blank range on his farm
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) KEN Brown was shot to death in Leicestershire during the summer of 1994. Here we take a look at what happened more than three decades ago in this shocking unsolved murder. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Ken Brown was shot at point-blank range on his farm on August 25, 1994 Credit: BBC 3 Despite numerous appeals and a cash reward being offered for information, the crime remains unsolved Credit: YouTube On the evening of August 25, 1994, Ken Brown, then aged 56, was tending to his chickens and geese at his £750,000 rural home located on the edge of Barrow-upon-Soar, Leicestershire. Despite having recently installed extra security measures due to concerns about safety, he was shot at point-blank range outside his isolated farmhouse. Ken was discovered dead in his chicken coop, the victim of a single, close-range gunshot wound. The murder took place at dusk, when he was carrying out his everyday evening routine. The isolated nature of the property and lack of witnesses coming forward made the investigation particularly challenging for police. Recluse Ken's neighbours reportedly said he lived reclusively. Some even believed he had been living in fear before his death, which may have been why he beefed up his home security system. Because of his financial success — the victim co-owned a chain of pubs, restaurants and hotels — possible motives including robbery or a personal vendetta were considered by investigators. But there was no immediate proof of theft and the murder weapon was never recovered. The lack of forensic evidence and absence of a clear motive hindered police progress. In The Footsteps Of Killers probes Suzy Lamplugh's murder The case became one of Leicestershire's most notorious unsolved crimes, drawing significant media attention and public interest. Extensive investigation The police investigation was extensive; there were numerous appeals – including one on Crimewatch – and a cash reward was offered for information. In 2004, Det Ch Insp Jim Donaghy said he believed somebody in Barrow could hold clues to unravelling the case. He said: "People do talk, especially if they feel the attention is going off and the police are losing interest. "That will never happen in this case. We constantly review these sorts of inquiries, murders and homicides. 3 Prof David Wilson and Emilia Fox investigate the crime on In the Footsteps of Killers Credit: Channel 4 "So if anyone has any more information I would ask them to come forward, pass that to me and let us be the judge of that and assess." Anyone with information should contact Leicestershire Police or ring Crimestoppers. Despite these efforts, Ken's killers have never been found. In the Footsteps of Killers Series three, episode four of the Channel 4 true crime docuseries investigates the killing of Ken Brown. Presented by Silent Witness star Emilia Fox and Professor David Wilson, the programme investigates unsolved British murders, using a hybrid of documentary and drama techniques. Each episode sees the presenters travel to the scene of a cold case, re-examine evidence, interview witnesses and attempt to uncover new leads using the latest forensic science and criminological research. The episode of In the Footsteps of Killers examining the murder of Ken Brown airs on Channel 4 at 10 pm on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
Daily Mirror
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Silent Witness actor Emilia Fox explores murder cases in new C4 series
In a documentary that thinks it's a drama, Emilia Fox teams up with real experts to solve cold case murders A slightly confused format, In The Footsteps Of Killers (tonight June 17, C4, 10pm) sees actress Emilia Fox, whose only expertees here is Silent Witness 'acting as a pathologist', join forces with an actual criminologist and detective to solve real cold cases. She troops around after Professor David Wilson and former senior cop Dr Graham Hill, asking them pertinent questions as they rake over the original investigations for new leads. It's fascinating enough for anyone with a morbid interest in murder cases that were well known at the time but have never been solved. The black-and-white opening titles see Emilia and David walking down a street with intent, as if they are in a Nordic crime drama, while eerie music plays. Not quite sure what genre it wants to be, this is actually a straight documentary looking to explore cold cases, with Emilia prodding the experts. Then they head to an 'important location', while explaining the first case. In this episode, the team examines the 1993 murder of 42-year-old Bulic Forsythe, a manager at Lambeth Council, who was savagely beaten in his own home in Clapham, London, before the property was set on fire. Emilia says: 'The fire brigade was called to this block of flats. His head had been repeatedly beaten. There was no sign of break-in.' Professor Wilson wades into the various theories before briefing Graham on the case. Was Bulic murdered for personal reasons? Or was he silenced, to prevent him from whistleblowing, by dark forces operating within his council workplace? No one seems to want to talk, but the trio looks to uncover new evidence. In The Footsteps Of Killers is airing on Channel 4 tonight (June 17) at 10pm. There's plenty more on TV tonight - here's the best of the rest.. BAKE OFF: THE PROFESSIONALS, CHANNEL 4, 8pm By this stage in the competition, everyone is always slightly on the edge - on the edge of madness, tears, hysterics, break down… fair to say, it's tense. 'I'm just going to go back to the hotel and cry in the shower,' says contestant Amun, summing up the general vibe. Ellie Taylor and Liam Charles try to add a light touch as harsh judges, world-class pâtissier experts Benoit Blin and Cherish Finden, throw out more tough tasks. First they must recreate Benoit's 'Le Café Crème', a dessert designed by his boss Raymond Blanc that he has made for the past 30 years. There's a catch - the chefs only have a scaled-back recipe and one dessert to examine and taste test. 'What a big coffee cup for them to fill,' says Cherish. In their second challenge, the teams play illusionists as they create a deceptive gardening-themed illusion showpiece. As they glaze pumpkins, wrangle with chocolate boxes and accidentally smash a spade, not everyone will blossom. MY LIFE IS MURDER, U&ALIBI, 9pm Lucy Lawless (aka Xena: Warrior Princess) reprises her role as Alexa Crowe in this light-hearted comedy crime drama. In this fourth season, there are eight new mysteries, eight new worlds, and eight diabolical killers that only Alexa can catch. But this time, she's bringing her family along for the ride. Emboldened by the changes in her life, ready to revisit demons of the past and excited to embrace her future, Alexa is even more of a force to be reckoned with. The cast includes Ebony Vagulans as tech guru Madison, Joe Naufahu as café owner, Reuben, Rawiri Jobe as Detective Harry Henare and Martin Henderson as Alexa's brother Will. Watch out for guest stars over the series that include comedian Bill Bailey and Rodger Corser. In this episode, a wealthy socialite dies in suspicious circumstances, leaving her entire fortune to her cat. To uncover the truth, Alexa investigates a heady world of high society gossip. EMMERDALE, ITV1, 7.30pm Aaron is off to see Robert in prison, although he's lied to everyone about where he's going. Robert says he still loves Aaron, and reckons Aaron loves him too. But Aaron reminds him that he was the one who forced their relationship apart. Back at home, John finds out where Aaron is and believes that their two-week marriage is already dead and buried. Victoria tries her best to reassure him. Later on, John decides to pay Robert a visit too… EASTENDERS, BBC1, 7.30pm At the station, Ross demands answers as Vicki goes to comfort Isla. Kat worries about Joel's influence on Tommy, but gets no support from Alfie. Ross tries to talk to Joel, who lies. Vicki tries to support Ross, so she meets up with Isla and offers her money to drop the complaint, promising to make Joel understand that what he did was wrong. Phil worries that Linda isn't coping with having to do the lion's share of work at The Vic.
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Must-see TV this week: Noel Edmonds' return to TV and Phyllis Logan's new role
Another week of telly is on the horizon, packed with a variety of shows and television events to keep everyone entertained. Soccer Aid is back on the schedule, with Dermot O'Leary and Alex Scott set to present the charity football match on ITV. But there's another return in store, as Noel Edmonds fronts a new programme following his fresh start in New Zealand. Over on Channel 5, Downton Abbey's Phyllis Logan takes on a challenging role in Murder Most Puzzling, playing the wine-loving crossword whizz Cora Felton. READ MORE: Gogglebox star opens up on heartbreaking health condition he's 'hidden for years' READ MORE: Kate Garraway in need of surgery after neglecting health during Derek Draper's illness Meanwhile, for Channel 4, Silent Witness star Emilia Fox delves into some of Britain's unsolved cases alongside Professor David Wilson in the third series of the true crime show, In The Footsteps of Killers. Monday, Disney+ Ryan Reynolds turns the tables and honours the underdogs of the food chain in this light-hearted documentary. Collaborating with National Geographic, the Deadpool actor reveals the secret lives of nature's overlooked creatures, from slugs and insects to amphibians and fish. With a host of never-before-seen footage, each episode of this five-part series highlights their peculiar mating strategies, questionable parenting skills and even their most revolting behaviours, finally giving these unsung heroes their moment in the spotlight. Sunday, ITV1 Old Trafford is set to host the world's largest celebrity charity match once again, as Soccer Aid for UNICEF gears up for its 2025 face-off. This year's star-studded line-up sees the England team take on the Soccer Aid XI FC in a match that's as much about spirit as it is about scoring. Football legends such as Wayne Rooney, Jill Scott and Gary Neville will be sharing the pitch with celebrities including Tyson Fury, Vicky McClure and Tom Grennan. All this excitement is in aid of one fantastic cause - supporting children worldwide. Monday, C4 This gripping new crime thriller takes us to Bolzano, Southern Tyrol, where Italian detective Paolo (portrayed by Matteo Martari) is compelled to confront his past when a serial killer he once pursued - costing him a leg and his girlfriend - re-emerges after years in hiding, targeting German-speaking victims. Entangled in a cold case that becomes an obsession, Paolo joins forces with the sharp and ambitious assistant DA Eva Kofler (Elena Radonicich). Together, they navigate cultural divides, buried trauma and grisly secrets in this stylish, slow-burn suspense drama. Tuesday, 9pm, U&Alibi Lucy Lawless is back as PI Alexa Crowe in the fourth series of this charming crime drama from Australia. When a wealthy socialite dies under suspicious circumstances, leaving her entire fortune to her cat, Alexa delves into a world filled with high society gossip. With the help of tech whizz Madison (Ebony Vagulans), cafe owner Reuben (Joe Naufahu), brother Will (Martin Henderson) and detective Harry (Rawiri Jobe), Alexa also encounters potential new foes with Bill Bailey and Rodger Corser making guest appearances. Tuesday, C4 Emilia Fox (Silent Witness) returns alongside leading criminologist Professor David Wilson for the gripping third series of In the Footsteps of Killers. Each episode sees the duo reopen some of Britain's most perplexing unsolved murders - cold cases that have been left untouched for years. Equipped with advanced forensic science and sharp criminological insight, they retrace the victim's last moments, challenge old assumptions, and uncover fresh leads that the original investigations overlooked. It's real-time justice in action. Wednesday, Apple TV+ After making their mark on the tightly corseted London of the 1870s, the Buccaneers are now fully integrated in the second series of the eponymous show - they're practically ruling the roost. Kristine Froseth, Josie Totah, Alisha Boe, Aubri Ibrag and Imogen Waterhouse all return to their roles as the vivacious American girls, alongside Matthew Broome, Christina Hendricks and Guy Remmers. Nan now has to manoeuvre through influence and power, while Jinny finds herself thrust into the limelight when she's implicated in the kidnap of her unborn child. The girls grapple with everything from romance and jealousy to even death as they strive to make their voices heard. Wednesday, ITV Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell are back for the deeply touching seventh series of Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace. Over three enthralling episodes, the team assists individuals who were abandoned as babies in uncovering their biological roots using advanced DNA testing and archival detective work. Guided by the steady hand of social worker Ariel Bruce, stories unfold that span continents and decades. Heart-wrenching yet hopeful, this series continues to be a testament to resilience, identity and the enduring human need to belong. Thursday, 9pm, U&Drama Scandal and ideology collide in Outrageous, a darkly sophisticated period drama inspired by the real-life Mitford sisters. At the heart of it all is Susan (Bessie Carter), an intelligent journalist whose literary voice stands in stark contrast to the rising fascism of 1930s Britain. Meanwhile, her sisters are drawn to dangerous men: Diana (Joanna Vanderham) is charmed by Oswald Mosley while Unity (Shannon Watson) develops a shocking infatuation with Adolf Hitler. As the world teeters on the brink of war, family ties are stretched to their limits in this captivating story of loyalty, betrayal and legacy. Thursday, BBC4 Four-time World Champion, winner of 51 Grands Prix and F1 legend Alain Prost reflects on his extensive career, spanning more than four decades in this enlightening six-part series. From his childhood passion for karting and climbing the ranks to Formula 3, to his victories and defeats, this show also delves into Alain's iconic rivalry with teammate Ayrton Senna - who eventually became an unexpected friend. Thursday, C5 Phyllis Logan, known for her role in Downton Abbey, trades grand manors for detective work in this delightful new six-part crime drama. As Cora Felton, a cheeky, wine-loving crossword columnist with a sharp wit and even sharper intellect, she's unexpectedly pulled into a murder investigation when a teenage girl is found dead - and an odd crossword clue is left at the scene. Partnering with the hesitant DCI Hooper (Adam Best), Cora becomes the police's wildcard, solving riddles and overstepping boundaries in equal measure. It's like Miss Marple meets Ludwig - but with added sass. Friday, 5 Corsica, with its 600 miles of breathtaking coastline, is renowned as the island of beauty. Now, for just £5, this programme takes a deep dive into the nation's verdant forests and majestic mountains, and its rich history that blends both Italian and French heritage. The journey takes viewers from Bastia, a food lover's paradise on the northeast coast of the island, to its capital, Ajaccio, nestled among the west coast's thriving hillsides - the birthplace of one of the world's most famous military leaders, Napoleon Bonaparte. Friday, Sky Get ready for an all-access backstage pass to the summer's most anticipated event, The Isle of Wight festival 2025, kicking off at Seaclose Park. From the unmatched talent of Sting to the iconic Stereophonics, big names are set to rock the main stage. But that's not all - expect electrifying performances from fan favourites like Faithless, The Script, Busted, Razorlight, Jess Glynne, Clean Bandit, Supergrass and Olly Murs, promising an evening filled with unforgettable classic hits. Friday, ITV From hosting Deal or No Deal to settling in rural New Zealand, Noel Edmonds has taken quite the career turn. Now, he's inviting viewers to join him on his latest venture. Swapping UK fame for a quieter life in the secluded village of Ngatimoti, Noel is embarking on an ambitious eco-project: establishing the country's first ever energy garden. However, with challenging weather conditions, cultural differences and a community slow to embrace change, it's not going to be a smooth journey. Will his Kiwi dream flourish, or will it wither?
Yahoo
12-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Channel 4 & Alaska TV 'Discharged Duty Of Care' To John Balson Before Producer Took His Own Life
Editor's note: this article includes mention of suicide and other topics that some readers may find upsetting. Channel 4 and production company Alaska TV 'discharged their respective duties of care' before producer John Balson took his own life, an independent review has concluded. More from Deadline Ben Wheatley's 'Generation Z' Axed By Channel 4 After One Season 'Leaving Neverland 2' Trailer: Sequel Follows James Safechuck & Wade Robson's Fight For Justice After Accusing Michael Jackson Of Sexual Assault 'Leaving Neverland 2: Surviving Michael Jackson' To Premiere On Real Stories YouTube Channel In U.S. Balson, a true crime TV producer, died by suicide last May shortly after working with Alaska on Channel 4 series In The Footsteps of Killers. In the final few weeks of his life, he raised concerns about 'work-related stress' to family members and health professionals. Channel 4 engaged Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) to conduct a review last summer and the law firm has now delivered its findings. Channel 4 stopped short of publishing the report, citing privacy concerns. The UK broadcaster has instead shared a summary of RPC's findings with the media. The summary declared that Channel 4 and Alaska responded 'reasonably and appropriately' to the information available to them in the period before Balson's death, but the press notice did not address specific issues raised by Balson's family. The family has been contacted for comment. According to his wife, Yumeno Niimura, Balson felt he was blamed by the In The Footsteps of Killers production for a family declining to take part in the show. Balson also alleged that he received threats from someone associated with a person he was researching. Furthermore, Niimura said the producer was exhausted, leading to intense physical symptoms associated with vestibular migraine disorder, and a deterioration in his mental health. Niimura told us Balson's death was a 'failure of the industry.' She said Balson had told her that small production companies have 'unrealistically low budgets,' and 'often force extra work and unrealistic assignments on freelancers.' It is not clear if Channel 4 made RPC's full findings available to Balson's family, but details were shared during a meeting. Balson's family has been clear about wanting an open discussion about the circumstances of his death and potential industry failings. RPC reached its conclusions 'after a thorough examination – including interviews with relevant individuals, the review of a substantial volume of emails, WhatsApp and text messages, and the analysis of key documentation relating to the production and provided by John Balson's family,' according to Channel 4's summary. 'The investigation team also commented on how the profound tragedy of John's death has deeply affected all those spoken to during the investigation,' it added. A Channel 4 spokeswoman said In The Footsteps Of Killers will now air over the summer. Now into its third season, the show sees hosts Emilia Fox and David Wilson investigate famous cold cases. Channel 4 said it has taken on all of RPC's recommendations, which are that 'production companies should ensure timely compilation and circulation of mental health resources,' should 'consider additional ways to encourage dialogue and transparency regarding mental health matters,' 'consider adopting additional monitoring and oversight of freelancer working hours' and 'consider introducing a documented Flexible Working Policy.' The recommendations suggest that, had these policies been in place prior to Balson's death, it could have improved his working conditions. 'Additional budgetary provision' Furthermore, Channel 4 said it will bring in extra welfare measures that will include a new Code of Behaviours for Suppliers, which the spokeswoman said was being drawn up prior to Balson's death. Indies will also be asked to assess the nature and subject matter of a production. If concerning, Channel 4 will offer psychological support and resources. 'Channel 4 will consider additional budgetary provision, where necessary, to ensure the specific needs of production staff are properly supported,' said the statement. Content boss Ian Katz said at last summer's Edinburgh TV Festival that the channel was mulling how it could roll out the protections it has introduced for journalists reporting on the Israel-Gaza conflict to the true crime genre. Channel 4 will also 'introduce formalised mid-production discussions with all production companies to support them in addressing production staff wellbeing,' added the press notice, along with conducting regular anonymous surveys. Katz said today that the tragedy has 'made it clear that more must be done to better support freelancers in the industry and we need a more robust picture of the demands being made of them.' 'John's case has highlighted the pressures that freelancers can face in our industry and their fear of losing out on future work if they speak openly about their working conditions,' he added. 'In particular, we want to make it easier for them to speak frankly about their working conditions and the demands being made of them. And we welcome an ongoing conversation about how best we can continue to support them in the future. We share and support the ambition of John Balson's family that positive change can be made as a result of John's death, and we will continue to work – independently and with industry partners through initiatives such as [new body] Action for Freelancers – on approaches to help make this happen.' An inquest into Balson's death last month found that he had told numerous health professionals he was having suicidal thoughts and flagged 'work-related stress' on several occasions to them in the weeks leading up to his death. At the time, Balson's family said they 'felt let down by the system.' In a statement, Philippa Childs, head of the Bectu union, said: 'John Balson's death is a profound tragedy, and we know today's announcement from Channel 4 will make for very difficult reading for his family, friends and many across the industry. 'No one should have to suffer in silence and we welcome Channel 4's commitment to taking practical steps to encourage people to talk more openly about worker mental health. RPC's recommendations to production companies and Channel 4 regarding better monitoring freelancers' working hours, improving mental health support, and engaging with bodies like Bectu on working conditions, will all be critical to ensuring that the review's findings result in real and sustained change. 'The physical and mental health risks of many elements of working in film and TV, including long hours, tight production schedules and exposure to distressing material, are well documented. We will be holding Channel 4 and the wider industry to account on meaningful and continued engagement on these and other factors that impact freelancers' wellbeing. 'This is critical to uphold both the wishes of John and of his family that positive change come from his tragic death, and to truly drive progress in creating a healthier industry for everyone who works in it.' Best of Deadline All The Songs In 'Severance' Season 2: From The Who To Ella Fitzgerald 10 Brand New Emmy-Eligible Shows Coming This Spring 2025 TV Series Renewals: Photo Gallery
