Mark Wright is set to join the popular BBC One home-makeover show, "Clean It, Fix It,"

Image BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

Mark Wright is set to join the popular BBC One home-makeover show, "Clean It, Fix It," bringing his passion for property and renovations to the series. Wright will join the seasoned team of DIY legend Tommy Walsh, expert cleaner Maxine Dwyer, and creative carpenter Asher Edwards. The show, currently filming across the UK, is slated to return to BBC One and iPlayer in 2025, with Wright making his debut in the fourth series.

"Clean It, Fix It" focuses on improving people's lives by addressing practical problems around their homes, making them more liveable without breaking the bank. Viewers in need of a home transformation can even apply to be featured in the upcoming series. Mark Wright expressed his excitement about joining the show, stating his eagerness to help change people's lives and living situations. He highlighted the emotional impact of the transformations, emphasizing the heartfelt nature of the program.

The team will have two days to transform homes in desperate need of some tender loving care, tackling issues ranging from a shortage of storage space and cleaning overhauls to DIY disasters. Throughout the process, the experts will share helpful tips and tricks, providing audiences with practical solutions they can implement in their own homes.

Alex McLeod, Commissioner for BBC Daytime, highlighted the show's relevance amidst the cost of living crisis, noting its ability to inspire viewers with cost-effective home improvement ideas. McLeod also praised Wright's addition to the team, anticipating more laughs and emotional moments as he connects with the stories featured in the series.

Claire Simpson, Executive Producer at Curve Media, echoed this sentiment, promising a series packed with energy, tips, tricks, and solutions that anyone can try at home. She expressed excitement about the dynamic team, predicting even more warmth and fun with Wright on board.

Tommy Walsh, a beloved fixture on the show, emphasized the program's empathetic approach, offering viewers practical solutions to common household issues. He expressed his passion for helping people build brighter, happier lives through the transformations showcased on "Clean It, Fix It."

Maxine Dwyer shared her enthusiasm for returning to the series, humorously mentioning her plans to borrow Asher's tools for cleaning tasks and anticipating making Mark get his hands dirty. Asher Edwards, too, looked forward to filming with the team, eager to share his carpentry expertise and help homeowners solve problems creatively.

"Clean It, Fix It" is commissioned by Rob Unsworth, Head of BBC Daytime and Early Peak Commissioning, with Alex McLeod serving as the Commissioning Editor for BBC Daytime and Claire Simpson as the Executive Producer for Curve Media. The show's return in 2025 promises to deliver more transformative home makeovers, insightful tips, and heartfelt moments, now with the added charisma and expertise of Mark Wright.

Parent abuse storyline between Tommy Moon and Kat Slater coming this summer to Eastenders

Image: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

This summer, EastEnders is set to tackle the challenging issue of child-to-parent abuse with a compelling storyline featuring Tommy Moon, played by Sonny Kendall, and his mother Kat Slater, portrayed by Jessie Wallace. The storyline will explore the impact of Tommy's increasingly hostile behavior as he attempts to control and dominate Kat, shedding light on a rarely discussed form of abuse.

The seeds of this narrative were planted in the episode aired on Tuesday, July 23rd, where viewers witnessed Kat bearing the brunt of Tommy's anger. This tension arose after Tommy's well-intentioned but misguided efforts to pair Kat with Phil Mitchell did not go as planned. As the storyline progresses, audiences will see how Tommy's behavior affects not just his relationship with Kat but also the dynamics within the wider Slater-Moon family.

To ensure a sensitive and accurate portrayal, EastEnders has collaborated with organizations specializing in family dynamics and child-to-parent abuse, including Family Based Solutions and PEGS, alongside consulting the NSPCC. These partnerships are crucial in depicting the nuanced realities of such a complex issue.

Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders' Executive Producer, emphasized the importance of this storyline, noting Kat's well-known fiery persona and how it contrasts with her struggle against Tommy's manipulative behavior. He praised the performances of Wallace and Kendall, highlighting their ability to convey the emotional depth and complexity of their characters' situation. Clenshaw expressed the show's commitment to working with experts to faithfully represent the experience of child-to-parent abuse.

Jason Phasouliotis from Family Based Solutions acknowledged the significance of EastEnders addressing this often-overlooked issue. He commended the show's dedication to portraying child-to-parent abuse with the gravity it deserves, hoping that the storyline will resonate with affected families and encourage them to seek support.

Michelle John, Director at PEGS, echoed these sentiments, recognizing the storyline as a pivotal moment for raising awareness about child-to-parent abuse. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to provide guidance to EastEnders, emphasizing the importance of respectful and compassionate representation. John hopes the storyline will prompt important conversations and encourage parents, carers, and guardians experiencing similar situations to come forward and seek help.

As EastEnders delves into this sensitive subject, it aims to shine a light on the realities faced by many families and foster greater understanding and dialogue about child-to-parent abuse. The show's commitment to authenticity and empathy in storytelling continues to make it a powerful platform for addressing critical social issues.

Olivia Attwood’s Bad Boyfriends coming soon to ITV2

Image: ITV Press

By Jon Donnis

This autumn, ITV2 and ITVX are set to premiere a thrilling new reality series, "Olivia Attwood's Bad Boyfriends." Hosted by the vibrant presenter and podcaster Olivia Attwood, this show promises to shake up the reality TV landscape with its unique and engaging format.

In this bold new series, eight unsuspecting boyfriends are flown to a Greek island under the guise of participating in a show about manhood and bromance. However, they are in for a rude awakening when Olivia reveals the real purpose of their trip: to transform from bad boyfriends into better partners. The masterminds behind this intervention are their long-suffering girlfriends, whose dramatic surprise arrivals add an extra layer of chaos and excitement.

Over the course of 11 episodes, these boyfriends, ranging from serial cheaters and lazy lovers to commitment-phobes and man-children, will face a series of challenges designed to reform their ways. The stakes are high as they compete to prove their worth and avoid elimination. The goal is to become the most improved boyfriend, but the journey is fraught with tough love, humor, and plenty of mischief.

In today's social media age, where temptations are just a swipe away, maintaining a relationship can be challenging. This show aims to bring couples back to basics, helping them rediscover why they fell in love in the first place. Olivia Attwood's approach combines warmth and irrepressible humor with a no-nonsense attitude, making her the perfect host to guide these wayward boyfriends through their transformation.

Olivia Attwood shared her excitement about the show, expressing how honored she feels to host her own dating series. She revealed that the series has been two years in the making and praised the incredible couples who participated in the filming in Greece. Viewers, she promises, are in for a real treat.

Kate Teckman, ITV's Head of Development & Commissioning Editor for Factual Entertainment, highlighted the series' unexpected twists, turns, and laugh-out-loud moments. She praised Olivia's sense of humor, mischief, and warmth, which make her ideally suited to lead these "lovable rogues" towards a happy ending.

Sue Murphy, ITV's Head of Factual Entertainment, emphasized Olivia's importance to ITV, noting her success with "The Price of Perfection," the most streamed factual series on ITVX this year. She expressed delight at Olivia's return to ITV screens with this fresh and passionate new format.

Tina Flintoff, Creative Director for Optomen, the production company behind the series, praised Olivia as a unique talent. She expressed excitement for viewers to see a different side of Olivia as she uses her life experiences to help transform these boyfriends into better partners.

Produced by All3Media's Optomen, the team behind award-winning series like "Olivia Attwood: Getting Filthy Rich" and "Olivia Attwood: The Price of Perfection," "Olivia Attwood's Bad Boyfriends" promises to be a captivating and transformative viewing experience. The series is set to air this autumn, with Tina Flintoff and Nick Hornby as Creative Directors, Colin Whitaker as Executive Producer, Laura Clarke Jeavons as Series Producer, Mark Wildash as Series Editor, and Roman Green as Series Director.

Get ready for an autumn filled with unexpected revelations, explosive scenes, and the ultimate test of relationships as "Olivia Attwood's Bad Boyfriends" brings a fresh and exciting twist to reality TV.

PREVIEW: Dame Judi & Jay: The Odd Couple.

Image: Channel 4 Press

By Jon Donnis

Channel 4's latest commission, "Dame Judi & Jay: The Odd Couple," is a heartwarming documentary that captures the unlikely but profound friendship between two iconic figures from different generations and walks of life: Dame Judi Dench and Jay Blades. Despite an age gap of nearly 40 years, their paths serendipitously crossed three years ago, leading to a bond that transcends their disparate backgrounds.

The documentary follows Dame Judi, the legendary actress renowned for her illustrious career in stage and screen, and Jay Blades, the beloved presenter known for his work on "The Repair Shop." Together, they embark on a journey to explore the pivotal places and people that have influenced their lives, offering viewers a nostalgic and intimate look at their personal histories.

Travelling across the UK, with stops in London and Stratford-upon-Avon, Judi and Jay delve into their pasts, uncovering secrets and sharing stories that are both humorous and touching. The journey takes them to significant locations such as Hackney's Ridley Road Market and The Old Vic theatre, each site serving as a backdrop for the tales of their respective rises to fame. These visits highlight the cultural richness and diversity of the areas they explore, adding layers of depth to their narratives.

Jay Blades expresses his gratitude for the experience, emphasizing how revisiting the past with a new friend can strengthen the bonds of friendship. He cherishes the memories and the lasting connection formed through this shared journey. Dame Judi echoes his sentiments, finding joy in discovering their shared sense of humor and kindred spirits, despite their different backgrounds.

Deborah Dunnett, the Commissioning Editor for Channel 4, praises the documentary for providing a rare and candid look into the lives of two talented individuals. She highlights the inspirational nature of their stories, showcasing how dedication, hard work, and a sense of fun can lead to remarkable achievements and unexpected friendships.

Dan Baldwin, Managing Director of Hungry Bear, the production company behind the documentary, describes the show as magical, filled with laughter and raw emotion. He notes the unique appeal of seeing Dame Judi Dench in a new light and celebrates the heartfelt narrative of hardship, love, success, and failure that binds Judi and Jay's friendship.

"Dame Judi & Jay: The Odd Couple" is a one-hour special directed and produced by Tom Green for Hungry Jay Media, commissioned by Channel 4's Deborah Dunnett and Head of Lifestyle Jo Street. This documentary promises to be a captivating exploration of friendship and personal history, bridging the gap between different worlds through shared experiences and mutual respect.

Surviving The Post Office: A Deep Dive into the Scandal with Will Mellor

Image: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

The Post Office scandal has left deep scars across the UK, impacting countless lives. In a new documentary and five-part podcast series from BBC Local, actor Will Mellor delves into the heart of this issue, exploring the stories of real-life sub-postmasters who have been profoundly affected. Premiering on BBC One on Monday, July 22 at 8:30 pm, Surviving The Post Office also extends to BBC Sounds, offering a comprehensive look into the lives torn apart by this national scandal.

Will Mellor, who previously portrayed Lee Castleton in the ITV drama Mr Bates Vs The Post Office, reconnects with Castleton and four other individuals across East Yorkshire, County Durham, Lincolnshire, West Sussex, and Cornwall. Mellor reflects, "I feel a real affinity with these families, so it was a privilege to hear their stories for this documentary and podcast. What shocked me most after meeting so many sub-postmasters is just how far the impact and trauma has spread – the effect it's had on people's health, their children, and their whole communities has been massive."

The documentary sheds light on both the financial and emotional toll of the scandal. Lee Castleton, eager to move past his ordeal, expresses his desire to reclaim his life: "I do have an anger at what happened, but I don't want to suffer for the rest of my life. I want to live a bit more and enjoy my life and the kids deserve to have their dad back fully." Stephanie Gibson from County Durham recounts her harrowing experience of being wrongfully accused at 21. She describes the emotional fallout and her eventual departure from her community. In a poignant scene, Stephanie returns to her former home with Will, confronting her past and finding unexpected resolution.

While the Post Office has issued an apology, the repercussions of the scandal continue to unfold. A public inquiry is still in progress, with compensation costs potentially reaching a billion pounds. Many victims are only beginning to rebuild their lives, facing significant emotional and financial hurdles.

Tune in to BBC One on July 22 or catch up on BBC iPlayer, and explore the accompanying podcast series on BBC Sounds by searching for 'The Post Office Scandal'. This series is a testament to the resilience of those affected and a crucial spotlight on a dark chapter in recent British history.

‘The Queen of Villains’: A Riveting Dive into Japanese Women's Pro Wrestling Premieres September 19

Image: Netflix Press

By Jon Donnis

How did one woman whip Japan into a frenzy? Launching on September 19, The Queen of Villains unveils the story of Dump Matsumoto, the most terrifying "heel" during the golden age of women's pro wrestling in Japan. Spanning five episodes, the series explores the events that led to her rise decades ago. From the '70s to the '80s, female pro-wrestling tag teams like "Beauty Pair" (Jackie Sato and Maki Ueda) and "Crush Gals" (Chigusa Nagayo and Lioness Asuka) became national icons. They captivated Japan not only by competing but also by singing and dancing in the ring. On the other side of this was Dump Matsumoto, the sworn rival of the "Crush Gals." She made all of Japan her enemy, wreaking havoc in and outside of the ring. But once upon a time, young Dump Matsumoto was told she was too kind to be a villain. What events made her one of the most disliked figures in Japanese wrestling history?

Bringing these iconic female wrestlers to life is a talented cast chosen through auditions. Multi-talented comedian Yuriyan Retriever portrays Dump Matsumoto. Erika Karata (Desert of Namibia) plays Chigusa Nagayo, who starts as a failed wrestling trainee but eventually rises to stardom. Ayame Goriki (Watashi ga Ore no Jinsei?!) portrays Lioness Asuka, known for being the most athletic and technical wrestler among her peers. The renowned Osamu Suzuki developed, wrote, and produced the series. After hearing Matsumoto talk about the women's pro wrestling era on his show, Suzuki was inspired to turn her story into a series and wrote the screenplay himself. Kazuya Shiraishi (The Devil's Path, The Blood of Wolves, Lesson in Murder) serves as the supervising director, while Chigusa Nagayo herself led the actors' physical training and presided over the wrestling scenes.

The Queen of Villains promises to be more than just a biographical retelling. It delves deep into the lives of these extraordinary women, revealing the challenges they faced both in and out of the ring. As viewers watch their rise to fame, they will also witness the enduring impact these women had on the world of wrestling and beyond. Don't miss the premiere of The Queen of Villains, streaming globally on Netflix starting September 19. This is your chance to experience the drama, the rivalry, and the sheer determination that defined a generation of female pro wrestlers and left an indelible mark on Japanese pop culture.

EastEnders Resorts to the Same Old Tricks: Bringing Back David Wicks to Boost Ratings

Image: BBC press

By Jon Donnis

Ah, EastEnders, the perennial soap opera that just can't resist recycling old characters to squeeze a few more drops out of its long-dry creative well. As the show gears up for its 40th anniversary, it's no surprise they're rolling out the red carpet for another tired return, this time for Michael French's character, David Wicks. Yes, folks, Walford's smooth-talking womanizer is back, and if the show's history is any indication, it's all just a desperate ploy to juice up those sagging ratings.

David Wicks, the charming rogue and son of the ever-dramatic Pat Butcher and Pete Beale, is set to make a short stint later this year. And let's be real, it's not because the storyline desperately needs him. No, it's because the show's producers know they can play on viewers' nostalgia and hope that bringing back a familiar face will distract from the increasingly ludicrous plotlines and repetitive drama.

Over his four collective years in Albert Square, David Wicks has been involved in some of the most iconic storylines, well, iconic if you're counting endless dodgy deals and an affair with his brother's wife as top-notch drama. Remember that time he almost had his half-brother Ian killed? Or when he developed feelings for Bianca Jackson only to find out she was his secret daughter? Ah, classic soap opera gold that can only be improved by trotting it out for yet another round.

When David last left Walford in 2014, it was after a failed wedding and a heart attack, a dramatic exit that should have put a pin in his storyline for good. But no, the EastEnders team, in their infinite wisdom, have decided that the 40th anniversary is the perfect time for his return. Why? Because nothing says "we're out of fresh ideas" like recycling a character who has already left the show multiple times.

Michael French, with a straight face, says he's "honoured" to reprise his role once again. Of course he is, who wouldn't want another paycheck for playing the same tired character? Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw assures us that David's return will bring the usual dose of drama, as if we haven't seen this play out a hundred times before. It's almost like they're banking on viewers having the memory span of a goldfish.

For those keeping track, and you really should be, because the writers clearly aren't, David first appeared on December 23, 1993, and has popped in and out of the Square ever since. He's the father of Bianca Jackson, surprise!, Joe Wicks, and Karen Wicks, because in soap land, the more convoluted the family tree, the better. His last stint ended in May 2014, but here we are again, with the same character being dusted off for another go.

So, dear viewers, prepare yourselves for yet another round of predictable drama and manufactured suspense. EastEnders might be treating you like fools by recycling old characters for the sake of ratings, but hey, at least we get to see David Wicks make a mess of things one more time. Just don't expect anything new or exciting, after all, if EastEnders has taught us anything, it's that history loves to repeat itself.