Latest news with #StrictlyComeDancing
South Wales Argus
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
BBC EastEnders star confirmed to be leaving the soap
Molly Rainford, known for playing Queen Vic barmaid Anna Knight on the BBC soap, will be leaving. She joined the show two years ago but will leave for new career options, according to reports. The BBC has confirmed the star's exit and wished her well for the future. EastEnders star Molly Rainford set to leave BBC soap A BBC spokesman told Newsquest: "We can confirm that Molly Rainford will be leaving EastEnders later this year, and we wish her all the best for the future.' On the exit, an insider told The Sun: "Molly came into the show two years ago, and in that time has been trusted with some great storylines. 'It's just so happened that when Molly was considering other options in her career, a meeting was held to discuss the future of the character, and both parties were in mutual agreement that it was the right time for Anna Knight to wave goodbye to Walford.' Molly's character Anna is the daughter of George Knight and Cindy Beale. She made her first appearance in June 2023. EastEnders' Top 5 Villains The now 24-year-old from London rose to fame on Britain's Got Talent. In 2012, at the age of 11, she made it to the final of the ITV competition, finishing sixth after a rendition of Beyoncé's version of "Ave Maria" in the final. In March 2023, it was announced that she had been cast in EastEnders. Since joining the soap, she has also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, where she finished as the runner-up alongside professional partner Carlos Gu. Other EastEnders exits confirmed in 2025 Molly is not the only star to leave the show this year. Bobby Brazier is leaving popular BBC soap EastEnders after four years. Clair Norris, who plays Bernie Taylor, has also left the show after eight years. Team #EastEnders has won Soap of the Year at the 2025 @TRICawards . A huge thank you to everyone who voted for us, we appreciate each and every one of you! 🥳 🏆 — BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) June 24, 2025 In March, it was revealed that Matthew James Morrison's time as Felix Baker was coming to an end. One of the biggest departures of the year was Natalie Cassidy, who played Sonia Fowler in EastEnders, and left the show after 32 years. Recommended reading: Speaking about her exit, she said: 'It felt very final but also very good. It's a nice place to leave Sonia after so much has happened to her. 'Sonia feels like she's never going to live down what happened with Reiss, so the only thing to do is leave the Square. 'I'm never going to say goodbye to her because, after 32 years, Sonia is ingrained in me. So, while I'm saying goodbye on screen, for now, Sonia is always there, knocking about!'
Daily Mirror
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Tasha Ghouri swears by product she's used since before Love Island
We initially fell in love with Tasha Ghouri when she made history as Love Island's first - and currently only - deaf contestant, stealing our hearts all over again in the 2024 season of Strictly Come Dancing. Now, three years since first hitting our screens, Tasha has even bigger dreams of proving that 'disability is beautiful'. The 26-year-old and proud cochlear implant user has often showed her 1.4 million followers exactly that, regularly sharing her go-to makeup looks and skincare picks. And this week, we sat down with the beauty enthusiast to talk about her summer essentials, favourite brands and future career goals as part of our desert island beauty series. For Tasha, the one thing she won't leave the house without is a polished brow (a girl after my own heart) - and to achieve that snatched, freshly-laminated look, she uses the Eyebrow Sculpt from minimalist beauty brand, Refy . 'I always like to have my brows done,' she said. 'That's probably the one beauty product I couldn't live without.' Liz Earle launches huge skincare bundle worth £191 for under £70 but you'll need to be quick Argos knocks 50% off four-seater garden patio set with parasol ahead of heatwave Tasha, who's become known for her effortless, fresh-faced beauty, has long been a fan of the 'clean girl' aesthetic, which is something Refy as a brand embodies. 'I've used Refy since before Love Island,' she explained. 'Their products are super, super clean girl and that's the vibe I really go for. I like a natural kind of glam.' Priced at £18, Refy Brow Sculpt is a wax-gel hybrid that works to sculpt, shape, and set eyebrows for a 12-hour hold. Flake-free with a zero-residue finish, it's sweatproof and waterproof, and was recently reformulated to be even better, infused with nourishing ingredients like Provitamin B5 and Glycerin. Wax-gel hybrid to sculpt, shape, and set eyebrows for a 12-hour hold It's racked up a near-perfect 4.9 star rating from shoppers, based on more than 3,800 reviews, which is a real testament to its adoration. One shopper commented: 'Brow sculpt has been the best product for my brows . I love it. I tell everyone to use it. It's perfect for creating that laminated look and they don't move all day. I'd never use anything else now.' Another added: 'This is my favourite product for my eyebrows, once I style them and brush them they stay like that all day.' However, while the product was reformulated, the applicator remained the same and some users haven't got along with it as well as others, commenting: 'I really like this product. I use it every day, it keeps my eyebrows in place from morning to night. However, I can't get a result I like with the integrated brushes so I use another one.' Refy's Brow Sculpt isn't just useful for taming brows, though. Tasha admits the Refy Brow Sculpt has come in handy for more than one beauty emergency. 'If I have greasy hair, I can just use the glue to slick my hair back.' Hack well and truly noted. Similar products come in the form of Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel, which is £24, and according to Space NK, has sold more than 100 this week alone. Like Refy, it's a hybrid wax-gel formula that lifts and locks the brows in place while increasing volume. For a more affordable alternative, e.l.f. Brow Laminating Gel has more than 16,000 ratings on the Boots website, costs £8 and has been described as 'e.l.f's strongest hold yet for nailing that laminated brow look'. While Refy sits comfortably somewhere in the middle of budget and high end in terms of pricing, Tasha's makeup kit is a real mix of high street heroes, cult favourites and premium beauty. 'I use Refy, L'Oréal Paris, Rimmel, Maybelline, Rare Beauty, Armani - their Eye is incredible - and Charlotte Tilbury. It's a complete mix of different brands. I'm lucky to be in a position where I get gifted beautiful makeup and get to play around with it.' When it comes to her current go-to products, though, Refy tops the list, particularly their cream bronzer. She said: 'My favourite bronzer is the Refy one as well, I use shade tan, especially if I'm a bit more tanned, that's the one I like to use. 'Blushes I use a completely different mix, the Armani blushes are really really nice, a nice cheek tint. I recently discovered Morphe. They have a really nice new triple palette , I just used that on holiday and it added a really nice glow. And then if I want a more subtle blush I like Charlotte Tilbury Pinkgasm .' It's no surprise that Tasha holds Refy close to her heart. She's long admired founder Jess Hunt, both for her brilliant product formulations and her commitment to real inclusivity. 'I've actually been a fan of Jess Hunt from day one, so I followed her for many, many years. She's one influencer I've looked up to who's been in this industry for such a long time. I remember when she launched Refy and thought, 'She's going to nail this.' 'But what was so great about the brand was the diversity. That's what I really love. It wasn't all the same people, everyone was different. I think she used people with disabilities, and I think that's so lovely. Refy knows what their brand stands for and it's about showing your beauty, not hiding it.' But while Refy might be doing it right, Tasha is candid about how much work still needs to be done in the industry. 'There definitely still needs to be more movement,' she said. 'Even on brand trips, I never see anyone with any kind of disability. It's actually really sad. There's a big space in the industry for that, but it's often overlooked or treated as a tick box. True inclusivity means continuing the momentum, not just doing it once.' As a beauty enthusiast and disability advocate, Tasha's dream is to be the face of a makeup brand. 'I'd love to be the face of Charlotte Tilbury one day. Or Refy, I think that would be so lovely as I've used them for so long. I can see myself doing that. Or a skincare brand like Aveeno. Just to show that disability is beautiful because we need to be included so much more. 'There's still such a stigma around what beauty is, that it has this perfect, gorgeous look when everyone is beautiful in their own way. I feel that it still needs to break down those barriers and push beyond that.'
Daily Mirror
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Strictly's judging line-up confirmed after fears over star's exit
The judging line-up for the 23rd series of Strictly Come Dancing has been revealed after fans of the BBC competition await the latest batch of celebrities The latest batch of Strictly Come Dancing celebrity contestants may be being kept under wraps but the judging panel has been confirmed. And for many fans they are now breathing a sigh of relief. Ahead of the latest series of the popular BBC dance contest, those watching from behind the desk have been announced. Taking to social media, the official Strictly page shared the exciting news. With a reel of images of the stars and the theme tune, the BBC show said on Instagram: "We've been limbering-up and practicing our curtsies, ready for the new series of Strictly with our amazing judging panel, Shirley, Anton, Motsi and Craig and our incredible MBEs Tess and Claudia - Congratulations on your FAB-U-LOUS achievement!" Celebrities were quick to comment on the post. Among those sharing their delight was professional dancer Amy Dowden, who wrote: "Can't wait xxx" alongside a number of love heart emojis. Dianne Buswell and Karen Hauer also shared their glee. As too did Motsi Mabuse, who took to the comments section as she gushed: "And just like that… we're BACK on @bbcstrictly. Let the sparkle, the sweat and the sequins begin! "Can't wait to share another magical season with all of you. #StrictlyComeDancing #TeamStrictly #GratefulHeart" The announcement comes as fans had thought Craig Revel Horwood had hinted he would be leaving the show. However, they have been left pleased that this is not the case. While the latest batch of famous faces has not been officially announced, the rumour mill is in full swing. Among those linked to the dance floor is former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. The 53-year-old Dutch sportsman is thought to be the latest in a long line of football legends to take to the Strictly stage, following the likes of Robbie Savage, Alex Scott and Tony Adams. A source told The Sun earlier this month: 'Jimmy has a huge fanbase from his years playing in the Premier League and is a very likeable character. Show producers are always keen to book a retired footballer as it gets footie fans tuning into the series and becoming unlikely fans of the show. "Jimmy has a competitive edge and is going to get his head in the game.' Others tipped for an appearance include Olympian Sir Mo Farah, Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey - better known as Nitro - and former Big Brother contestant Yinrun Huang. Bosses will be hoping for a drama-free 23rd series off-stage. The show has been dragged into disrepute in recent years amid accusations that professional dancers have been physically abusive to their celebrity dance partners. While the celebs have also been accused of offensive behaviour.
Wales Online
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Strictly star issues warning to fans as she suffers 'traumatising' incident
Strictly star issues warning to fans as she suffers 'traumatising' incident Strictly Come Dancing professional Michelle Tsiakkas has issued a warning to fans after she became the victim of a crime in broad daylight Michelle Tsiakkas told her story on Instagram (Image: Mike Marsland, Mike Marsland/WireImagevia Getty Images ) Strictly Come Dancing sensation Michelle Tsiakkas has shared a stark warning to her followers after opening up about a distressing pickpocketing ordeal in Central London. The BBC One show's professional dancer, who joined the cast in 2022, turned to Instagram with a heartfelt video detailing her recent encounter. She directly addressed her fans, saying: "I just wanted to make this video to let you know something that happened to me the other day in London." Michelle described the incident as deeply unsettling, impacting her mentally to the extent of spoiling her entire day. She explained: "This was a couple of days ago and I've just about mentally recovered from that. It was quite traumatising on the day, it ruined my whole day and made me feel awful, scared, helpless and I don't want the same to happen to you." Content cannot be displayed without consent In her candid account, the 29-year-old revealed the shocking moment her phone was snatched from her grasp. She reflected on the crime, saying: "My phone got stolen. I mean, I see it happening all the time but it's just one of those things that you think is never going to happen to you and then it does." She continued to explain that she felt like the "only person around" during the early morning, heading to a dentist appointment when the theft occurred just as she checked her phone for directions, reports the Manchester Evening News. Article continues below Michelle recounted the swift turn of events, stating: "I was on the actual street of the dentist and what happens? A man comes on a bike behind me, sweeps past me and grabs my phone. So he's grabbed my phone, he's on an electric bike and my heart she sank." Michelle recounted the moment, explaining that she instinctively reached to grab her phone back but tumbled to the ground, causing a grazed knee. She couldn't identify the thief because they wore a mask and quickly sped away on their electric bike. The dancer gave her thanks to two women who noticed she was "distressed" and came to offer assistance, allowing her to use a phone to contact her network provider, bank, and her mum, who would have been worried by her lack of response. Despite getting a new phone, Michelle described feeling "lucky" yet admitted to being "traumatised" following the ordeal. She revealed: "I'm being way more careful, I won't even take my phone out for directions," Michelle's fans soon posted messages of support (Image: PA ) Michelle further warned her social media followers with a caption: "Warning. This can happen to you in Central London. Be aware and be very careful. Phone theft is happening more and more and it seems like crime in the city is getting worse ... Has something like this ever happened to you? #pickpocketing #london #crime." Supportive messages poured in soon after her post, with @tim. commenting: "Really sorry to hear this. It seems to be a common occurrence in London these days sadly. Sending love and hope you're ok!!". While @maiyakarina said: "I'm glad you're starting to feel a bit better about it now. Lots of love michellie you are a beautiful person who was just caught at the wrong time sadly." @nataliecox112 commented: "Oh my goodness I'm so sorry this happened to you what is wrong with people. sending love." @alanpressland responded: "Oh no, sorry to hear this, Michelle. I'm glad you had everything backed up, I hope you feel better soon." Article continues below @courtneygroves25 also replied: "oh Michelle i'm so sorry that this happened to you! sending you so much love."
Edinburgh Live
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Strictly Come Dancing star targeted in 'traumatising' incident and issues warning to fans
Strictly Come Dancing favourite Michelle Tsiakkas has issued an urgent warning to her fans, sharing a harrowing experience to raise awareness after suffering a 'traumatising' ordeal. The professional dancer, who joined the BBC One dance show's line-up in 2022, reached out to her followers on social media to recall a recent distressing event where she fell prey to pickpocketing in Central London. Michelle took to Instagram with a candid video in which she addressed her audience directly, opening up about the incident. She recounted: "I just wanted to make this video to let you know something that happened to me the other day in London." She admitted to just starting to feel normal again after stating: "This was a couple of days ago and I've just about mentally recovered from that. It was quite traumatising on the day, it ruined my whole day and made me feel awful, scared, helpless and I don't want the same to happen to you." The 29-year-old then revealed: "My phone got stolen. I mean, I see it happening all the time but it's just one of those things that you think is never going to happen to you and then it does." Michelle went on to explain that it was early morning and she was on her way to the dentist and felt she was the "only person around" when she took out her phone to check for directions, reports the Manchester Evening News. Michelle described the moment vividly: "I was on the actual street of the dentist and what happens? A man comes on a bike behind me, sweeps past me and grabs my phone. So he's grabbed my phone, he's on an electric bike and my heart sank." Michelle recounted that in the heat of the moment, she instinctively tried to snatch her phone back, only to tumble onto the pavement and scrape her knee. She noted that the thief was masked, making identification impossible, and they made a swift getaway on an electric bike. The dancer gave her thanks to two women nearby who noticed she was "distressed" and came to her aid, offering their phone so she could contact her network provider, bank, and her mum, who she knew would be worried if she didn't respond to her messages. Michelle managed to get a new phone and considered herself "lucky" despite feeling "traumatised" by the ordeal. "I'm being way more careful, I won't even take my phone out for directions," she added. (Image: PA) Alongside her video, Michelle issued a warning to her social media followers: "Warning. This can happen to you in Central London. Be aware and be very careful. Phone theft is happening more and more and it seems like crime in the city is getting worse ... Has something like this ever happened to you? #pickpocketing #london #crime." Her post was soon inundated with supportive messages. @ dance commented: "Really sorry to hear this. It seems to be a common occurrence in London these days sadly. Sending love and hope you're ok!!". @maiyakarina reached out with supportive words: "I'm glad you're starting to feel a bit better about it now. Lots of love michellie you are a beautiful person who was just caught at the wrong time sadly." @nataliecox112 echoed the sentiment: "Oh my goodness I'm so sorry this happened to you what is wrong with people. sending love." @alanpressland responded: "Oh no, sorry to hear this, Michelle. I'm glad you had everything backed up, I hope you feel better soon." While@courtneygroves25 commiserated: "oh Michelle i'm so sorry that this happened to you! sending you so much love."
