Keith Allen Joins EastEnders for Special Episode on Phil’s Mental Health Recovery

Images: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

Keith Allen is set to join the cast of EastEnders for a powerful special episode centred on Phil Mitchell's journey towards mental health recovery. The episode, which will unfold over four weeks, will follow Phil as he enters a mental health unit to confront the trauma that has contributed to his depression and psychosis. The storyline aims to shed light on the challenges individuals face when grappling with their mental health, and how they begin to come to terms with their struggles.

Phil, having reached a crisis point in his life, attempted to end his own life on the 40th anniversary of a traumatic event. Initially, he resists therapy and group sessions, unable to open up about his pain. However, as the episode progresses, he forms a bond with fellow patient Gaz, played by Keith Allen. The two men connect over their shared experiences, and Gaz becomes a key figure in helping Phil take the first steps on his road to recovery.

EastEnders has collaborated closely with organisations such as The Samaritans, Rethink Mental Illness, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), and Mind to ensure that Phil's mental health journey is portrayed with the utmost accuracy and sensitivity.

Reflecting on his guest role, Keith Allen expressed his excitement, saying: "I've written a number one hit single, I've presented Top of the Pops, I've played the lead in the West End, and I was at Craven Cottage when we beat Juventus 4-1... Could it get better than that? Well, yes, I've just guested in an episode of EastEnders... What a joy! And what an honour to be a part of Steve McFadden's incredibly moving storyline. I may be a resting actor, but I now rest in peace."

Chris Clenshaw, EastEnders Executive Producer, shared his enthusiasm for Allen's involvement: "I'm delighted to welcome the incredibly talented Keith Allen to the cast of EastEnders as he takes on the guest role of Gaz in a special episode focusing on Phil's mental health. As Phil struggles to begin treatment, we explore how his relationship with fellow patient Gaz helps him take the first step in his road to recovery. Keith and Steve's performances are both phenomenal, and thoughtfully and sensitively portray the complex realities of mental health recovery and the impact of hypermasculinity."

This special episode will provide viewers with a raw and insightful portrayal of the mental health recovery process, offering a deeper understanding of the emotional struggles faced by those dealing with depression and trauma.

First Look at the Second Series of The Couple Next Door

Images Ch4 Press

By Jon Donnis

Following the success of the first series, first-look images have now been released for the second series of The Couple Next Door, the thrilling psychological drama from Eagle Eye Drama. The first series made history as Channel 4's biggest scripted streaming launch, with episode one garnering over one million streams in its first week.

Series two promises an entirely new story, with a fresh lead cast. Annabel Scholey (known for The Split and The Sixth Commandment), Sam Palladio (Nashville, The Princess Switch), Aggy K Adams (The Witcher, Greek Salad), and Sendhil Ramamurthy (One Piece, Never Have I Ever) take on the central roles, alongside the return of Hugh Dennis (Outnumbered, Not Going Out).

Written by David Allison (Bedlam, Marcella) and directed by Dries Vos (Suspect, Professor T), this new series continues to explore the claustrophobic world of a suburban cul-de-sac. This time, the narrative delves deeper into the consequences of turning one's fantasies into reality.

The story follows brilliant heart surgeon Charlotte Roberts (Annabel Scholey) and her husband, consultant anaesthetist Jacob (Sam Palladio), who seem to have it all. However, their lives are turned upside down when Mia (Aggy K Adams), a mysterious new colleague at their hospital, rents the house next door. Mia quickly gains Charlotte and Jacob's trust, and soon becomes entangled in their personal lives. She not only becomes close to the couple but also forms an unlikely friendship with Alan (Hugh Dennis), the outcast of the cul-de-sac. Meanwhile, Charlotte must deal with the sudden return of Leo (Sendhil Ramamurthy), a figure from her past.

As the drama unfolds, Mia's past resurfaces, raising suspicions about her true intentions. Tensions escalate when patients at the hospital begin to mysteriously die, prompting Charlotte and Jacob to question Mia's involvement. In a world where desires and secrets collide, the consequences of indulgence prove to be dangerously deadly.

This second series is loosely adapted from the Scandi drama Fatal Injections, produced by Kamikaze Film CPH and distributed by Reinvent International Sales. It is also inspired by the Dutch series The Neighbours, produced by Millstreet Films, on which the first series was based. Executive producers Jo McGrath and Walter Iuzzolino, along with producer Jennifer Burnet, lead the production team. The series is being produced in association with Happy Duck Films and is supported by the Belgian Tax Shelter. Eagle Eye Drama and Happy Duck Films are part of ITV Studios, with Beta Film handling international distribution.

Filming for the second series has recently wrapped in Belgium, and transmission details are set to be announced soon.

SPRING COMPETITION: Win The Madame Blanc Mysteries Series 1 – 3 Box Set, The Chelsea Detective Series 1 & 2 Box Set and Whitstable Pearl Series 1 & 2 Box Set

Calling all crime drama lovers, as the flowers begin to bloom, spring into the new season with a bumper selection of brilliant DVD Box Sets from Acorn Media International.

And to celebrate the start of Spring, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win all three of these releases on DVD.

Synopsis:

Flee the brisk March breeze with a trip to fabulous France for some escapist charm with the marvellous The Madame Blanc Mysteries Series 1 – 3 Box Set. TV favourite Sally Lindsay (Coronation Street, Still Open All Hours, Scott & Bailey) co-writes and takes the lead alongside Sue Vincent (Mrs Brown’s Boys, Mount Pleasant) in this much-loved, warm-hearted series. 

 

Meet successful antiques dealer Jean White (Lindsay) as she travels to Saint Victoire after her husband's mysterious death in a car accident. With the circumstances surrounding the crash seemingly more suspicious than they first appeared and with a series of antiques-related mysteries happening around the village, it’s not long before Jean gets caught up in Sherlockian shenanigans. 

Out Now at - https://amzn.to/3QLa53I

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The brilliant Adrian Scarborough (Killing Eve, Gavin & Stacey, 1917) stars as our favourite West London investigator, The Chelsea Detective, in this entertaining crime drama. 

  

DI Max Arnold (Scarborough) is a down-to-earth, wily and wise detective with no shortage of crimes to solve in London’s beautiful – yet brutal – borough. This Box Set sees the sharp sleuth tackle everything from a back alley drug deal gone wrong, to a heist and murder at a posh London gallery.... With the help of DS Priya Shamsie (Sonita Henry – Black Cake, Silo) in series one and DS Layla Walsh (Vanessa Emme – Bloodlands, The Fall) in series two, get ready for a slew of enthralling cases from the complex to the outright strange.  

Out Now at - https://amzn.to/3R4hOdv

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Kerry Godliman (After Life, Derek) delights as Pearl Nolan in the fan favourite cosy crime drama Whitstable Pearl, based on the bestselling books by Julie Wassmer. 

 

Single mum and local restaurant owner Peal Nolan (Godliman) is whisked into a world of mystery when her friend dies under suspicious circumstances. She soon finds herself in conflict with the gruff and aloof DCI Mike McGuire (Howard Charles – Shadow and Bone) who arrives on the scene to investigate the murder. As Peal sharpens her sleuthing skills, she decides to set up her own private detective agency from her family restaurant, teaming up with Mike to solve everything from murders to boat sabotage. Charged by a determination to outdo each other, sparks fly and tempers flare between this dynamic duo. 

 

Out Now at - https://amzn.to/4hdr7C9

Enter now for a chance to win.

There are a total of 6 actors shown on the covers of these 3 boxsets, but can you name them all?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions

1. Closing date 17-03-25

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

Sir Gareth Southgate to Deliver the 48th Richard Dimbleby Lecture on BBC One and iPlayer

Image: BBC Press - Gareth Southgate at the BBC Sports Personality Of The Year, 2021

By Jon Donnis

BBC Factual has announced that Sir Gareth Southgate will deliver the 48th Richard Dimbleby Lecture, airing in March on BBC One and iPlayer. The former England football manager, who led the national team through its most successful period in decades, will explore themes of belief, unity, and resilience in a rapidly changing world.

Southgate's leadership transformed the England team, guiding them to the 2018 FIFA World Cup semi-final, and the UEFA Euro 2020 and 2024 finals. Beyond his achievements on the pitch, he became a symbol of calm determination, empathy, and integrity, reshaping the team's identity and inspiring the nation. His lecture promises to share hard-earned lessons from his career, offering insight into the power of perseverance and the importance of collective strength.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Southgate said he was humbled to join such a prestigious list of past speakers and grateful for the chance to discuss the values he holds dear. Since stepping down as England manager, he has become a visiting lecturer at Harvard Business School, a sought-after speaker, and continues his charity work with organisations like The King's Trust and Help for Heroes.

The lecture will be introduced by David Dimbleby and recorded in front of an invited audience. Transmission details will be announced soon, but viewers can expect a thoughtful and inspiring talk from a figure who has influenced football and beyond.

Jamie Campbell Bower and Eddie Marsan Join The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 3

Images: Prime Video Press

By Jon Donnis

Prime Video has confirmed that Jamie Campbell Bower and Eddie Marsan will join the cast of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power for its upcoming third season. The series, currently in pre-production, will begin filming this spring at Shepperton Studios in the UK. Bower will join as a series regular, while Marsan will take on a recurring role. The show, which has attracted over 170 million viewers globally, remains one of Prime Video's top drivers for new memberships.

Jamie Campbell Bower

Bower, known for his powerful performance as Vecna in Stranger Things, has built an impressive career across film, television, and theatre. His TV credits include roles as Mick Jagger in Urban Myths: Mick & Margaret, Christopher Marlow in Will, and King Arthur in Camelot. He has also voiced characters in Thomas & Friends and starred in The Prisoner alongside Sir Ian McKellen.

Bower made his film debut in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street and went on to play Gellert Grindelwald in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 and Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. His filmography also includes The Twilight Saga, The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones, London Boulevard, RocknRolla, and most recently, Kevin Costner's Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1.

Eddie Marsan

Marsan, a two-time BIFA Award winner, has had a prolific career spanning over two decades. Known for his roles in Vera Drake and Happy-Go-Lucky, he has championed diverse representation in the film industry and was awarded an OBE. His recent work includes Back to Black, Franklin alongside Michael Douglas, and Netflix's Supacell.

Marsan starred as Terry Donovan in Ray Donovan across seven seasons and the 2022 feature film. His extensive credits include Deadpool 2, Atomic Blonde, Sherlock Holmes, Gangs of New York, V for Vendetta, Mission: Impossible III, and War Horse. He has worked on multiple projects with director Guy Ritchie, including Wrath of Man and Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre.

The Rings of Power's Continuing Success

The Rings of Power has become one of Prime Video's most successful series, with Seasons One and Two both certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. Season One holds the record as Prime Video's biggest TV premiere, while Season Two became the platform's most-watched returning season by hours viewed.

The series is led by showrunners and executive producers J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, alongside executive producers Lindsey Weber, Justin Doble, Kate Hazell, and director Charlotte Brändström. Matthew Penry-Davey serves as producer, with Ally O'Leary, Tim Keene, and Andrew Lee as co-producers.

Filming for Season 3 begins this spring, with fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Middle-earth's epic saga.

Watch on Prime Video at https://amzn.to/41A0Nh2

Michael Buffer Brings Vegas Flair to Wigan in Sky Sports Comedy Clip

Image: Sky TV Press

By Jon Donnis

Sky Sports releases hilarious video ahead of Wigan Warriors vs Warrington Wolves match in Las Vegas

Legendary boxing announcer Michael Buffer stars in a new Sky Sports video, offering fans a comedic glimpse into his trip to Wigan. The clip, released ahead of Wigan Warriors' clash with Warrington Wolves in Las Vegas on 1 March, shows Buffer getting an unexpectedly quirky welcome to the North West.

The video opens with Buffer arriving at the "Las Wigan Chapel" in a bright red Mustang, turning heads outside the Brick Community Stadium. Once inside, he takes the mic to begin officiating a wedding. "Ladies and gentlemen, the officiant is ready, the couple is ready," he announces, as the camera humorously cuts to a nearly empty 20-seater chapel.

Among the attendees are familiar rugby league faces, including Wigan and Warrington mascots, Mighty Max and Wolfie, squeezed into the crowd. As Buffer builds up to his iconic catchphrase, Warrington head coach Sam Burgess interrupts, worried about making the flight to Vegas.

The ceremony takes another turn when a local celebrant politely pushes Buffer aside to take over. Wigan legend Martin Offiah looks on in confusion, while Sky Sports presenter Brian Carney nearly objects to the marriage before being pulled back down by Warrington superfan Stuart Pearce.

Despite the chaos, the couple, Sharon Jukes and John Synott, eventually exchange vows, with Sky Sports presenter Jenna Brooks leading the applause. Pearce, known for his tough-guy image, discreetly wipes away a tear during the celebrations.

Buffer closes out the event with a nod to the upcoming Vegas match, declaring, "A match made in heaven. See you in Vegas, Rugby League fans!" He then asks a guest where he can find a "Wigan Kebab," double-checking if the local delicacy is vegan.

The video ends with the newlyweds driving off in Buffer's Mustang, "Just married" displayed on the number plate. Reflecting on the day, Buffer said, "I had a fantastic day meeting the people of Wigan and hearing how excited they are to have rugby league head over to Las Vegas next month."

Wigan Warriors face Warrington Wolves at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Saturday, 1 March. The match kicks off at 9:30 p.m. UK time, live on Sky Sports and NOW.

The Walking Dead: Dead City Returns for a Gripping Second Season This June

Image: Sky TV Press

By Jon Donnis

Sky has officially announced that the second season of The Walking Dead: Dead City will hit screens this June, with all episodes available on Sky and streaming service NOW. Fans of the franchise can also get a sneak peek, as the opening minutes of the upcoming season have been released, teasing even more intensity and conflict.

Starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Lauren Cohan as iconic characters Negan and Maggie, the series takes viewers deep into a decaying Manhattan, severed from the mainland and overrun with the dead. The island is a lawless wasteland where survivors have built their own brutal world of chaos and horror.

Season two raises the stakes as Maggie and Negan find themselves on opposing sides of a brewing war for control of the city. As tensions rise, their uneasy alliance fractures, and survival becomes even more precarious. The fight for freedom, vengeance, and survival forces them to confront not only the dangers of Manhattan but also the darkness within themselves.

The ensemble cast returns with Gaius Charles, Zeljko Ivanek, Mahina Anne Marie Napoleon, Lisa Emery, Logan Kim, Dascha Polanco, and Kim Coates, promising a dynamic mix of characters to drive the gripping narrative forward. With Eli Jorné as showrunner and executive producer, alongside The Walking Dead veteran Scott M. Gimple and stars Cohan and Morgan, the series is in expert hands.

As the apocalypse rages on, Dead City continues to explore themes of redemption, betrayal, and survival in the most unforgiving of landscapes. If the first look is anything to go by, season two will deliver relentless action, emotional gut punches, and a thrilling expansion of The Walking Dead universe. Mark your calendars, the undead return this June.