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Saturday 31 October 2020

TRAILER: Your Honor, starring Bryan Cranston coming to Sky Atlantic and NOW TV in early 2021

This 10 part legal thriller stars Oscar nominee and Emmy winner Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) as Michael Desiato, a respected New Orleans judge whose teenage son, Adam (Hunter Doohan), is involved in a hit-and-run that leads to a high-stakes game of lies, deceit and impossible choices. SAG Award winner Michael Stuhlbarg (Call Me By Your Name) stars as Jimmy Baxter, the much-feared head of a crime family opposite Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Hope Davis (For the People) as his wife, Gina, who might be even more dangerous than her husband.

The series also stars Carmen Ejogo (Selma), Isiah Whitlock Jr. (The Wire), and Sofia Black-D'Elia (The Night Of). Emmy nominee and Golden Globe winner Maura Tierney (The Affair) will guest star as Fiona McKee, a fearless prosecutor trying a major case in Desiato's courtroom. Additional guest stars include Amy Landecker (Transparent), Emmy winner Margo Martindale (The Americans), Lorraine Toussaint (Orange Is the New Black), Chet Hanks (Empire), Lamar Johnson (The Hate You Give) and Lilli Kay (Chambers).

BAFTA winner Peter Moffat (The Night Of, Undercover) serves as showrunner, executive producer and writer of multiple episodes. The series is executive produced by Emmy nominees Robert and Michelle King (The Good Fight, The Good Wife, Evil) and Liz Glotzer (Evil, The Good Fight). Emmy-nominated and BAFTA-winning director Edward Berger (Patrick Melrose) executive produces and directs the first three episodes.

Your Honor is a Showtime production, produced by CBS Studios in association with KingSize Productions, and is based on the Israeli series Kvodo created by Ron Ninio and Shlomo Mashiach. Cranston, James Degus, Rob Golenberg, Alon Aranya, Ninio, Mashiach, Ram Landes, Ron Eilon and Danna Stern also serve as executive producers.


Thursday 29 October 2020

NETFLIX AND UBISOFT TEAM UP FOR LIVE ACTION SERIES ADAPTATION OF ASSASSIN’S CREED

Netflix today announced it has entered into an agreement with Ubisoft to develop content based on the international best-selling video game franchise Assassin's Creed. The first series in development is slated to be an epic, genre-bending live action adaptation; a search is currently underway for a showrunner. Ubisoft Film & Television's Jason Altman and Danielle Kreinik will serve as Executive Producers.

Under the agreement, Netflix and Ubisoft will tap into the iconic video game's trove of dynamic stories with global mass appeal for adaptations of live action, animated, and anime series.

Ubisoft quote: "For more than 10 years, millions of fans around the world have helped shape the Assassin's Creed brand into an iconic franchise," said Jason Altman, Head of Ubisoft Film & Television - Los Angeles. "We're thrilled to create an Assassin's Creed series with Netflix and we look forward to developing the next saga in the Assassin's Creed universe."

Netflix quote: "We're excited to partner with Ubisoft and bring to life the rich, multilayered storytelling that Assassin's Creed is beloved for," said Peter Friedlander, Vice President, Original Series, Netflix. "From its breathtaking historical worlds and massive global appeal as one of the best selling video game franchises of all time, we are committed to carefully crafting epic and thrilling entertainment based on this distinct IP and provide a deeper dive for fans and our members around the world to enjoy."

Sky Kids Announces Brand-New Series The Epic Adventures of Morph

This November as the nights draw in, Sky Kids will debut The Epic Adventures of Morph, an action-packed stop-frame animated comedy series from Aardman, with 15-five minute episodes making it the longest season of Morph yet.

After almost 40 years apart, The Epic Adventures of Morph will see Morph and his sidekick Chas reunited with their old friends Delilah, Grandmorph and the Very Small Creatures. Morph and the gang are up to their usual mischievous antics, but in bigger and bolder adventures that take them beyond their desktop home and into the wider world for the very first time.

From Aardman's industry leading animators, The Epic Adventures of Morph is fast-paced, action-packed and full of slapstick comedy moments – perfect for nostalgia lovers and families alike.

Staying true to the original format, The Epic Adventures of Morph was shot using clay and traditional stop-frame animation without dialogue at Morph's original home, the Aardman studios in Bristol.

The first 10 episodes will be available on Sky Kids across all Sky platforms including Sky Q, Sky+, the Sky Kids App and the NOW TV Kids Pass from 9th November – making it the perfect way for the whole family to escape this Autumn.

Lucy Murphy, Sky Director of Kids Content said: "Morph has been bringing a bit of cheeky fun to our screens for decades and in these times of uncertainty the clay genius of The Epic Adventures of Morph is the perfect way for families to watch and laugh together with longer episodes of ever more inventive and exciting escapades."


The South Bank Show set to return on 22 November to Sky Arts with four artists at the top of their game: Gillian Anderson, Bernardine Evaristo, Benjamin Zephaniah and Simon Armitage

The South Bank Show will make a welcome return to Sky Arts on 22 November as part of a roster of shows on the now free-to-air channel. Edited and presented by Melvyn Bragg, the South Bank Show is the longest-running Arts show on British television. In this series, Melvyn interviews four artists at the height of their powers: Gillian Anderson, Bernardine Evaristo, Benjamin Zephaniah and Simon Armitage.

Gillian Anderson, one of the most highly-regarded actors working today, joins Melvyn for the first episode of the series. On stage at the Young Vic in London, where Gillian starred as Blanche Dubois in the award-winning production of 'A Streetcar Named Desire' in 2014, Melvyn and Gillian explore her diverse and prolific career across theatre, film and television, and discuss a range of work including The X-Files, Sex Education and The Fall, as well as Gillian's extraordinary current performance as Margaret Thatcher in The Crown.

Author Bernardine Evaristo made history in 2019, when she became the first black woman to win the Booker Prize for her remarkable novel, Girl, Woman, Other. In the second episode of this South Bank Show series, Bernadine talks to Melvyn about her childhood and early life in South London, and the creative influences that inspired her to become both an internationally acclaimed writer and a powerful voice for equality and diversity.

Benjamin Zephaniah is a pioneer of performance poetry: in the third episode of the series, he joins Melvyn for a candid conversation about his life and work, and reveals how his troubled youth inspired him to channel his energies into poetry – and how, in his words, poetry saved his life. He also performs a selection of his poems, exclusively for the South Bank Show, and gives a unique insight into the creative process behind them. This is an intimate profile of a groundbreaking artist.

Poet Laureate Simon Armitage completes the series. In episode four, he talks to Melvyn about how his latest collection of poems Magnetic Field: The Marsden Poems provide a deeply personal perspective on his career as one of the most energetic and powerful forces in contemporary poetry. The film takes him back to his roots in West Yorkshire, and to the moors which have provided such an inspiration to him as, "a kind of page which could be written upon."

Melvyn Bragg says: "I'm delighted that Sky Arts is now free to air. The South Bank Show's autumn season is a quartet tailor-made to suit this occasion. Gillian Anderson is one of the most famous and versatile actors of her time; Bernardine Evaristo, the first black female writer to win the Booker Prize, is enjoying phenomenal success; Benjamin Zephaniah continues to attract audiences all over the world with his vivid performance poetry; Simon Armitage, the Poet Laureate, seems to expand that role every month. Four artists at the top of their game."

Tuesday 27 October 2020

Smash hit Love Island reaches Canada

ITV Studios' smash hit Love Island has been commissioned by Quebecor Content in Canada for a French spoken version. Following recently announced commissions in Spain, Nigeria and Italy, this will be the 19th local adaptation of the reality dating format. In Canada, the show will be co-produced by Productions Déferlantes and Zone 3, in collaboration with Quebecor Content. The series will be shot on the idyllic Grand Canary Island.

Maarten Meijs, President Global Entertainment, ITV Studios says, "Despite the challenging times we all are in currently, it's been a brilliant few weeks for our global hit format Love Island with 5 new sales globally in 2020 and more to come. The show is still a massive success; it recently wrapped up several successful series in Europe and the US. Now reaching Canada is fantastic news and we are very excited to work with Quebecor Content to bring this reality dating sensation to their audiences."

Airing almost in real time, Love Island stands out from other romantic reality shows that we've seen so far, because it lets viewers play a key role in determining each contestant's fate. No wonder this British format has quickly become a global phenomenon! And now, we're delighted to bring it to Quebec audiences as we pursue our amazing collaboration with ITV Studios – a truly exceptional partner," adds Christine Maestracci, Vice President, Acquisitions and International distribution, Quebecor Content.

Love Island features a group of single "Islanders" who come together in a stunning setting, ready to embark on a summer of love, friendships and, ultimately, relationships. Every few days, the Islanders must couple up – those who fail to find a partner to couple up with risk being dumped from the island. Islanders are on the lookout for romance, but the road to love doesn't always run smoothly. Challenges abound with new Islander arrivals and dramatic twists as friendships and relationships form. In addition to choosing their partners wisely, Islanders must also win the hearts of viewers who have the opportunity to shape events on screen and ultimately crown one lucky couple the winner, who will then have the chance to walk away with both love and the cash prize.

Mephisto commissioned for ITV Studios America

Acclaimed writer and director Peter Landesman to create drama series based on the life and work of leading female Italian mafia prosecutor

North Hollywood, Calif., October 26, 2020 –  It was announced today that acclaimed writer, director and producer Peter Landesman (Concussion) will create, write and direct MEPHISTO, an epic tale of justice and retribution inspired by the life and work of one of Italy's top mafia prosecutors. Award-winning producer Charlie Pattinson (Shameless) and Paul de Souza (Miracle Detectives) will executive produce this series, along with Landesman, for ITV Studios America.

Inspired by real and ongoing events, MEPHISTO is set in the southern Italian states of Calabria and Sicily, one of the most storied and dangerous parts of the world. The story is of a driven female prosecutor fighting the Calabrian mafia syndicate, the 'Ndrangheta – a global cocaine, arms trafficking and money laundering empire that has been almost never challenged or prosecuted…until now.

Isolated in a male-dominated region paralyzed by corruption and fear, the prosecutor uses the most medieval 'Ndrangheta codes – its murderous sexism and treacherous control of women – as her most effective weapon. She must persuade, and keep alive, four female informants to testify against their families in return for a new future for themselves and their children.

Landesman said: "In all my years as a storyteller, I've never come across someone as courageous or inspiring as this woman. In a genre historically dominated by men in film - from Serpico to Donnie Brasco to The Departed - a female crime fighter of this magnitude in this most brutal of a man's world is a real-life superhero."

Pattinson added: "Mephisto turns the patriarchal 'mafia genre' on its head and is the extraordinary story of three courageous women out for revenge and justice. It is a real privilege to bring this remarkable story and Peter's meticulous, riveting scripts to television."

The English-spoken series will be set and produced on location in Italy.

McFly share their story in McFly: All About Us

McFly share their story in McFly: All About Us

ITV has commissioned a one-off special charting the story of McFly. Transmitting this November, the one-hour show will feature the band's most open interviews to date and culminate in a very special gig, filmed at the Union Chapel in London in front of their families who have been their constant support through the years.

Featuring intimate and emotional interviews with Tom, Danny, Dougie and Harry, they will talk candidly about the origins of McFly, the formation of McBusted and the truth behind the band taking a break that until now they haven't felt ready to share.

With never before seen footage from key moments throughout their career, and refreshingly honest conversations with one another, viewers will be taken inside their journey giving a portrayal of the highs and lows the band has seen professionally and personally. From their heady rise as teenage pop stars to achieving seven number ones, appearing in a Hollywood movie and winning a Brit Award, selling over 10 million records worldwide through to unexpectedly taking a break. McFly will bring their story up to the present day that sees them back on track following group therapy, a triumphant reunion gig at the O2 and the release of their first album in 10 years.

McFly commented: "This is the true and open story of our band and our friendship, the challenges we've faced as well as highs we could never have dreamt of and why we're stronger now than ever."

’13 Reasons Why’ ‘Supernatural’ Star Mark Pellegrino and Internet Attorney Announce ‘The Guardian Project’ Reality Docuseries

Mark Pellegrino, who is most known for his lead role as 'Lucifer' in the CW series "Supernatural," in addition to his lead roles in "13 Reason's Why," "Dexter," and "Lost," has teamed up with internet attorney Andrew Rossow to launch a campaign for "The Guardian Project," a new reality docuseries. "The Guardian Project" is a multi-tiered attack on the epidemic problems of public bullying and the spreading of libelous narratives on social media. The Kickstarter campaign officially launches Tuesday, October 27, 2020, to raise money to help create the reality docuseries that not only exposes online bullying and libel but offers community solutions and reformative justice for the victims.


The first and primary tier of "The Guardian Project," via its 'Catfish' like style, confronts victimizers and empowers victims to get justice.

The second tier is organized civilian support and protections for victims through virtual neighborhood watches.

The third-tier involves partnerships with tech start-ups, which promote contractual relationships between social media participants. Think civility through liability.

The fourth-tier is legal reform that empowers victims to seek legal restitution against those who would use social media platforms to harm the reputations and lives of those they don't agree with or like.

Pellegrino and Rossow both have similar backgrounds when it comes to facing bullying head-on, recognizing the intense waves that continue to flood social media and online communities. They have both publicly shared their stories of bullying, harassment, and assault they've faced over the years. Now they've come together to take action and play an active part in creating "The Guardian Project" for the greater good.  

Monday 26 October 2020

COMPETITION: Win Adult Material on DVD



Adult Material is released on Digital and DVD on November 2nd

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 3 copies to give away on DVD

Synopsis
Hayley Squires takes the lead, alongside Quadrophenia’s Phil Daniels and Hollywood favourite Rupert Everett (My Best Friend’s Wedding), in a gritty, eye-popping new Channel 4 drama Adult Material, which takes us deep inside the British adult entertainment industry.

This new hard-hitting drama asks, is consent for sale? It examines the porn industry through the eyes of proud mother of three and family breadwinner Jolene Dollar (Squires), who happens to earn her living as one of the top adult entertainers in the UK.

Unconventional career-woman Jolene has been involved in the industry her whole adult life and when 19-year-old Amy (Siena Kelly – Temple) arrives on set, Jolene feels responsible for her, since she’s barely older than her own daughter Phoebe (Alex Jarret – Les Miserables). She tries to take Amy under her wing…but she can’t protect Amy from her own choices and before she knows it, her relationship with this unstable young woman leads to Jolene’s career, reputation and personal life coming apart at the seams. 

Jolene’s long-term business partner Caroll Quinn is played by Everett, while Game of Thrones’ Joe Dempsie plays her loving and supportive life-partner Rich. Navigating life, work and judgement, Jolene goes up against intimidating US mogul Tom Pain (Julian Ovenden – Downton Abbey) and finds an unlikely ally in MP Stella Maitland (Kerry Godliman – Save Me Too).

From Olivier Award-winning playwright and screenwriter Lucy Kirkwood (Chimerica) Adult Material is a timely look at how the pervasiveness of the industry has blurred lines of consent in mainstream culture.

Buy From Amazon at
https://amzn.to/37DEw6F

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

COMPETITION CLOSED


Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 09-11-20
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.

Friday 23 October 2020

I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!​ new promo

Ant & Dec star in a brand-new trailer for the upcoming series of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! This year's series will come from stunning Gwrych Castle in North Wales rather than its usual New South Wales location in Australia.

However, it seems that neither Ant or Dec are aware of the show's change of location.

Continuing their journey north to Gwrych Castle, Ant & Dec spot a telephone box and decide to call Kiosk Kev for directions but they don't get the response they were hoping for!

I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! will start on ITV in November 2020.

Channel 4 announce Stath Lets Flats Series 3

Channel 4's BAFTA award-winning comedy Stath Lets Flats back on the market

Critically acclaimed and BAFTA award-winning comedy, Stath Lets Flats from award-winning writer-performer and comedian Jamie Demetriou (Fleabag) and BAFTA award-winning RoughCut TV has been recommissioned for a third series for Channel 4.

Joining Jamie in reprising their roles are Natasia Demetriou (What We Do In The Shadows), Al Roberts (King Gary), Christos Stergioglou (Dogtooth), Katy Wix (Ghosts), Kiell Smith-Bynoe (Ghosts), and Ellie White (The Other One).

The series (6x30') will pick up from the shock cliff-hanger ending of series two, as incompetent letting agent Stath (Demetriou) is faced with rescuing the family business, Michael & Eagle, and his relationship with Katia, while expecting his first child by Carole. Meanwhile his sister, Sophie, and best friend, Al, deal with the fallout of finally declaring their feelings for each other.

Stath Lets Flats took home three prestigious awards at this year's BAFTA ceremony: Best Male Actor in a comedy, Best Writer of a Comedy and the programme itself won the award for Best Scripted Comedy.

Jamie Demetriou said: "This is lovely. I love Channel 4. Thanks so much for having us back for a series 3. Sorry the title is still hard to say. Love Jamie Demetriou from Stalph Les Flav".

(Stath) added: "Thank you so truly for this energetically and development news. I never seen something on Channel For (4) in my life, but someone told me they done a programme about people being embarrassed about their body. Which is a shame. I'm proud of my body, even though my eyebrow is a bit too wide and I'm panickin' it's joinin' to my head hair."

Wednesday 21 October 2020

ITV announces new Yorkshire Ripper drama

Following the phenomenal ratings success and critical acclaim of Des and White House Farm, ITV's Head of Drama Polly Hill has commissioned The Yorkshire Ripper  from the same producers, award winning independent production company, New Pictures in association with all3media international.

The drama will depict one of the most notorious and shocking serial killer cases in the world, the hunt for Peter Sutcliffe, dubbed the Yorkshire Ripper, between October 1975 and January 1981, police undertook the biggest manhunt in British criminal history. The search for Sutcliffe lasted five years, involved over a thousand officers and changed the way the British police worked forever.

Written by acclaimed screenwriter George Kay (Criminal), The Yorkshire Ripper is a true crime drama which will follow the desperate, cat and mouse hunt for Sutcliffe focusing upon the police investigation and the lives of the victims who fatally crossed his path.

Commented Polly Hill: "I am delighted to be working with Willow and Paul again, after they made the brilliant White House Farm. This promises to be a definitive look at this infamous case, and will be sensitively dramatised for ITV by this formidable team, who have a proven track record in bringing these true stories to screen."

The Sister Episode 1 Preview - Starring Russell Tovey

Mon 26 Oct 2020
9.00pm - 10.00pm
ITV

Series overview
How far would you go to keep a secret?

One rainy evening, Nathan is surprised by an unwelcome face from the past.

Nathan has never been able to forget the worst night of his life: a party that led to the sudden, shocking death of a young woman.

Only he and Bob, an eccentric old acquaintance, know what really happened… and they've resolved to keep it that way. But years later, Bob appears at Nathan's door with terrifying news that threatens to tear Nathan's world apart. Because Nathan has his own secrets now.

Secrets that could destroy everything he has desperately fought to build for himself and his family.

The four-part series is written by Neil Cross and is inspired by the novel Burial, also written by Neil Cross (Luther, Hard Sun, Spooks, Mama). Executive Producers are Euston Films Managing Director Kate Harwood (Dublin Murders, Hard Sun, Baghdad Central), alongside Executive Producer for Euston Films, Noemi Spanos (Dublin Murders), and Neil Cross. The series is directed by Niall MacCormick (The Victim, The Durrells, Doctor Thorne) and produced by Jonathan Curling (Tin Star, Baghdad Central).

The Sister is a Euston Films production for ITV and is distributed internationally by Fremantle. The series was commissioned for ITV by Head of Drama, Polly Hill.

Episode 1
Nathan seems to have it all — a loving wife, a beautiful home and a solid, if unexciting, career. But Nathan has never been able to forget the worst night of his life: a party that led to the sudden, shocking death of a young woman… the sister of the woman who is now his wife. Only he and Bob, an eccentric old acquaintance, know what really happened — and they've resolved to keep it that way. Until one rainy evening, years later, when Bob appears at Nathan's door with terrifying news. They're digging up the woods.

Cast
Nathan (Russell Tovey)
Bob (Bertie Carvel)
Elise (Simone Ashley)
Holly (Amrita Acharia)
Jacki (Nina Toussaint-White)
June (Amanda Root)
Graham (Paul Bazely)

Tuesday 20 October 2020

EUPHORIA returns to Sky and NOW TV with two special episodes

Emmy® award-winning drama series EUPHORIA will return to Sky with two special episodes, with the first debuting this December on Sky Atlantic and NOW TV.

In the aftermath of being left by Jules at the train station and relapsing, the first special episode follows Rue (played by Emmy®-winner Zendaya) as she celebrates Christmas. Written and directed by series creator Sam Levinson, the episode, titled "Trouble Don't Last Always," also stars Colman Domingo, who appeared in season one. The title and date of the second episode are forthcoming. Both special episodes were produced under COVID-19 guidelines.

EUPHORIA received three Primetime Emmy® Awards this year, including Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series (Zendaya), Outstanding Contemporary Makeup (Non-Prosthetic) and Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics.

EUPHORIA is created and written by Sam Levinson, who also serves as executive producer; executive producers Ravi Nandan, Kevin Turen, Drake, Future the Prince, Hadas Mozes Lichtenstein, Ron Leshem, Daphna Levin, Tmira Yardeni, Mirit Toovi, Yoram Mokady and Gary Lennon; Will Greenfield serves as a co-executive producer. Produced in partnership with A24 and based on the Israeli series of the same name, which was created by Ron Leshem and Daphna Levin, from HOT.

This Morning's Phil Vickery goes in search of 'Britain's Best Tart'

This Morning's resident chef Phil Vickery will undertake a new mission this October as he travels the length and breadth of the nation to discover Britain's Best Tart in a brand new four-part strand of the same name.

Throughout the new series Phil - a firm favourite on This Morning for 21 years - will also discover the history behind some of the best traditional tarts that Britain has to offer including the Bakewell tart, the Manchester tart, the Gypsy tart and finally the Yorkshire curd tart.

Each week Phil will visit the birthplace of these sweet treats and take viewers on a historic journey to the Derbyshire Dales, Manchester, Kent and Yorkshire, where he will meet those in the know who will share the secret recipes that date back hundreds of years. Once equipped with the local knowledge, an inspired Phil will return to the kitchen to create his own version of each tasty tart.

Phil, tell us about this new series and how it came about…

"Well, a couple of weeks ago on This Morning I did an almond tart and I hadn't done a lot of baking on the show for a while, but Phillip [Schofield] and Holly [Willoughby] loved it and said it was really lovely, and on the back of that I was asked by my bosses 'We'd like you to do a thing on Britain's traditional tarts' to which I laughed at first and then they explained further 'the culinary version'. I did a bit of research and narrowed it down to the Manchester Tart, Bakewell Tart, Yorkshire Curd Tart and the Gypsy Tart - which I remember at school! And then we went off and filmed up and down the country, all within Covid guidelines."

What can This Morning viewers expect to see?  

"So I do a bit of research, and we go to the place where we believe they do one of the best or the best tart in the area, and it's not so much as judging it, it's going there, looking at what they do, and coming back and making my own version in the studio. I mean some of these tarts have such old recipes, I think the Bakewell Tart one for instance is from around 1870 so you have to modernise things a bit. And for the show I like to be careful with calories and things, so if I can lighten them and make them a lot less heavy then that's what I'll try and do. But also, a lot of the 'old' ingredients you can't get, for example, the Yorkshire Curd tart, to get fresh curds is quite difficult so my version on that tart I used cottage cheese. But also, I am kind of going on a history tour as well, I've definitely learnt things - there's a Bakewell pudding and a Bakewell Tart and I now know the history of both of them now! I'm still learning as I go on these trips for This Morning. Never too old!" 

You are a master of a pudding, is this what makes you the best person for this series?

"When I was a young chef I trained in pastry and I had a flair for it. I remember making so much by hand back then; brioche, croissants, danish pastries… everything. And I ended up working for about twelve years mainly doing pastry, and actually a lot of chefs around - I won't name names - but they can't do it. They hate pastry! It's such a finite thing… an extra half an ounce of yeast can destroy bread for instance and 0.5g of salt can make a big difference, so it's very very specific and a lot of chefs don't have the patience!"

Did you have in mind what your favourite tart might be before filming? 

"Not really… but I have always liked Bakewell Tart even though I don't really like almond essence, but I make mine without that because I think the natural flavour of almonds is there, you don't need to enhance it. So Bakewell is pretty high up on my list, if I'm being honest."

Do you think the humble tart is underrated or being slightly forgotten about in the UK?

"It is perhaps underrated, but because a lot of them are now so old, I guess people don't see them as fashionable anymore. For instance, in Bakewell they make a small Bakewell tart probably about 5cm across and 2cm deep and because it only had butter, sugar, egg and almonds in it, it was around 2,000 calories! So some are hugely calorific and so for a lot of people they find them too heavy. I tried one and I struggled to sleep that night!"

What kind of tart is your personal favourite to cook and why?

"Well, my personal favourite of all time is an egg custard tart. My mum used to do it for me when I was little and it was a staple in my restaurant too… I used to have a guy that came to my restaurant every Monday for lunch and he once said to me, 'Mr Vickery, if you ever take that egg custard tart off the menu, I'm never coming here again!' and it was always on the menu, so for me, that's my favourite go to. Although my mum still tells me hers is better!"

You are celebrating 21 years on This Morning, how does that make you feel?

"Yes, I am! Do you think I'll get a gold watch?... I'm not sure how it makes me feel because when Denise [Robertson] was alive, she, together with Dr Chris Steele are the longest serving contributors on the show, then I think it's me and Alison… and actually that's rather nice that I've done it for that amount of time and that they still want me! I'm getting on a bit now so I'm very lucky and I'm very appreciative of it. I think I've travelled to 37 countries in total so far for the show… how amazing is that? I've got to do so many amazing things during that time."

What have been your most memorable moments?

"There are hundreds! Just things like closing the Sydney Harbour Bridge early so we could film on top of it was incredible. Then in a catamaran moored outside the Sydney Opera House where I cooked burgers… that was quite special. We also went flying in a seaplane and landed on the Great Barrier Reef. Another time I went flying around Alaska to do the salmon run and watched all the bears coming out, and the whales came right up in front of us. I've cooked in the lowest point of the earth in the dead sea and I've also cooked 11,000ft up in Machu Picchu in Peru, and I remember the air was so thin that the gas wouldn't light and I was struggling for breath! I've been everywhere…"

He added, "The show has absolutely taken me to places I would never have seen or visited without it. Catching crabs in Norway, going to India, going to Hong Kong and then on to Bangkok where we went on the Orient Express from there to Malaysia and we cooked on the train! It's all just been absolutely fabulous. Wonderful memories." 

What are your top five ingredients you are never without?

"Well, I grow my own potatoes, strawberries and a few tomatoes so I'm not usually without those for most of the year. But generally the top five ingredients that I am never without are tinned tomatoes, fresh coriander, packed rice, stock cubes and clotted cream!"

What are you likely to cook if you are watching football with friends, seeing your mum or with your children?

"If I was watching football with friends, and hopefully Spurs are winning, I would normally do something really simple like rice with a bit of chilli, simple spoon food. And if I am with my mum I have to ask her what she wants because she's a bit particular my mum and she's a very, very good cook. And she's quite adventurous. My mum and dad stayed with me a few weeks ago actually and they ate me out of house and home! They had a mix of steak and chips, prawn curry, BBQ chicken, they had allsorts. They were eating like there was no tomorrow! As for the the kids, they have flown the nest, but they do come back every now and then and Winnie will say to me 'Oh dad, can we do a quick egg fried rice?' and it's just two eggs in a pan, cooked with basmati rice and soy sauce. She loves that!"

Please credit: 'Britain's Best Tart' will air on ITV's This Morning from Tuesday 27th October at 10am


Denise Welch joins the cast of Hollyoaks

Hollyoaks announces soap-star reunion as Denise Welch joins the cast to play Nikki Sanderson's on-screen mum.

A dance teacher by trade, 'Trish' arrives in Hollyoaks under the ominous shadow of boyfriend, Brad who immediately takes a shine to Maxine (played by Nikki). Will he drive a wedge between mother and daughter?

Denise and Nikki previously worked together on Coronation Street when they played Natalie Barnes and Candice Stowe.

But that's not Denise's only Hollyoaks connection, as she's also starred with Chelsee Healey (Goldie) in Waterloo Road and is a Loose Woman alongside Kelle Bryan (Martine).

Speaking about her new role, Denise said: "I am thrilled to be joining the cast of Hollyoaks in this, their 25th year.

"I'm looking forward to working with some old friends and making new ones. The character of Trish Minniver is an actor's dream and I can't wait to introduce her to you."

As well as acting credits including Soldier Soldier, Waterloo Road, ground-breaking Boy Meets Girl and Benidorm, plus 18 years as a panellist on Loose Women, Denise is also a Sunday Times bestselling author.

'Trish' will first appear on screen in January 2021 much to the shock of Maxine, who since arriving in Hollyoaks in 2012 and saying farewell to sister, Mitzeee (Rachel Shenton), has fought many battles without her immediate family around her.

The Mandalorian Season 2 | Disney+ Special Look | Official Disney UK

The next chapter begins. Start streaming the new season of #TheMandalorian Oct. 30 on #DisneyPlus.

The Mandalorian Season 2 trailer teases action-packed footage as Mando reunites with Cara Dune and Greef Carga to protect The Child.

Pedro Pascal returns as the title character, who continues his quest to find a safe home for the beloved character who has no official name, but has come to be known as Baby Yoda.

Sunday 18 October 2020

Celebrity Juice New Series and a Halloween Special

Thu 22 Oct 2020
10.00pm - 10.50pm
ITV2
Episode 1:
Outrageous and inimitable host Keith Lemon returns with a new series of Celebrity Juice alongside brand-new team captains Laura Whitmore and Emily Atack.

Joining them this week for more games, fun and anarchy will be actor and Celebrity Juice legend Will Mellor, Radio 1 DJ Clara Amfo, musician Tom Grennan and the hilarious Jimmy Carr.

Thu 29 Oct 2020
10.00pm - 10.50pm
ITV2

Joining them this week for some spooky games, fun and plenty of tricks and treats will be Strictly's scariest judge Craig Revel Horwood, presenter Maya Jama, Queen of the Jungle Jacqueline Jossa and Take That's Howard Donald.

Ghost Bus Tours

Thu 29 Oct 2020
9.00pm - 10.00pm
ITV2

A terrifying comedy travelogue in which rapper Lady Leshurr, comedian Darren Harriott and reality star Jordan Davies go on a ghost hunting mission in one of Eastern Europe's most haunted places, Kerotas Prison.

They'll be led by the Ghost Bus Tour guide Anton, a super freaky local who will introduce the celebs to a host of unhinged witnesses and experts.

Their goal is to summon three disturbing spirits - a cannibal who used to eat his cellmates, a demon cleaner who extracts the souls of only buff men and a sadistic scientist who was x-rayed to death by vengeful patients.

The Ghost Bus Tour culminates with the celebrities being abandoned and left to spend the night in the evil prison.

Will they ever see Anton again? Can they survive on their own? Will Jordan ever stop screaming? The three celebrities are left in no doubt that ghosts are real and they should not be annoyed.

Saturday 17 October 2020

The Million Pound Cube

ITV's award-winning hit show The Cube is back and promising higher stakes than ever before with a life-changing one-million-pound jackpot.  

Host Phillip Schofield will return to preside over the high-octane gameshow, which sees contestants attempt seemingly simple tasks within the high-pressure confines of the iconic Perspex box.

Pairs of contestants, from the same household, take on The Million Pound Cube. As well as facing solo games, they will also face brand new two player challenges.

Each pair will have nine lives to complete seven games, each worth an increasing amount of money, as they move closer to the huge jackpot. Players will have to overcome extreme nerves and frustration as they take on deceivingly simple tasks such as throwing a ball into a container, balancing on a beam or stopping a clock at precisely 10 seconds. But will they have what it takes to beat the mighty Cube?

Episode 1

Brothers Adam and Jon have their teamwork put to the ultimate test, whilst twin sisters Priya and Shreya endure a nerve-shredding journey in their quest to win one million pounds. Just seven games stand between both pairs and a fortune – but can they handle the pressure and beat the Cube?

Friday 16 October 2020

Scarlett Moffatt announced as the host of ITV2’s new cookery dating show, Love Bites

Scarlett Moffatt announced as the host of ITV2's new cookery dating show, Love Bites

ITV2 today announced that TV favourite Scarlett Moffatt will host brand-new cookery dating show - Love Bites - a 30 x 60" series made by Ricochet, a Warner Bros. International Television Production UK Company.

Airing this autumn, Love Bites will see three suitors battle it out to win a date by each cooking a three-course meal using the same box of ingredients, in a bid to win a date with a single foodie.

Culinary skills will be put to the test, and Scarlett will be there every step of the way as she guides the singletons through the experience as they cook up a storm in the pursuit of love.

Scarlett Moffatt said: "I am beyond excited to be hosting ITV2's new show Love Bites which is coming to your screens this autumn. I've always been obsessed with both dating and cookery shows so this rolled into one really is the dream gig for me.

"I've had such a blast filming with the daters and watching them whip up a storm in the kitchen. Make sure you stay tuned to check it out in all its glory, it's a culinary and dating delight served with lots of LOLs so perfect TV for the colder months."

Taskmaster: Interview with Greg Davies and Alex Horne

Where did the idea for Taskmaster come from?

Alex: Eleven years ago, my wife and I had had a baby, so I didn't go to Edinburgh Fringe for the first time in years.  

Tim Key won the comedy award and I was sat at home with the baby feeling very jealous, genuinely. So, I set up a show for the following year and I invited 20 comics. I sent them all emails secretly, didn't tell them who each other was, and said, 'I'm starting a new competition which you can enter, I'm going to set you a different task every month'. 

Mike Wozniak won it and Tim didn't, so I was happy. And none of the comedians was Greg Davies.

Greg: I'd love to tell you it wasn't noted at the time, but it was noted at the time. I

was in a sketch group, We are Klang, and one of the members had been invited by Alex, so I knew about it.

Alex: That must have looked like a quite cliquey sort of thing.  

Greg: Yeah, it felt like there was a real Edinburgh clique going on and I was in the early stages of my career, excluded by someone I would have thought was a monster.

Alex: I think I would have been scared of you. I didn't ask any of the bigger boys.

Greg: I wasn't even that fat back then!

Alex: You were quite lanky weren't you, but I just meant, we didn't really know each other, is probably the truth.

Greg: We didn't know each other at all but it didn't stop me from feeling excluded.  

 

 

It was obviously a successful show…

Alex: It was on at midnight and only 150 people watched it but it got more word of mouth than it probably merited. It was one of those quirky Edinburgh things. So we did it again the following year, then Avalon said, 'There's something in this', and we started pitching it as a TV show with Greg hosting.

 

Why Greg?

Alex: Well, I would challenge you to name anyone else who could do that job. He had all the elements that role needed, as well as being very funny and good off the cuff. I'd say his physical attributes lend itself to the role, but also the headmasterly qualities.

Greg: I've basically spent the majority of my adult life pretending to have authority. I certainly was like that in the sketch group I was in and on stage I tend to turn the volume up on everything I do. So, some bombastic tall shouty man setting tasks seemed like a very natural fit.

Alex: There's a moment in every show where Greg does have to say, 'That's it, we're moving on now'. And most comics…  even Johnny Vegas in this series listened to Greg and moved on, which I've seen him not do on many other shows.

Greg: Once I put the Taskmaster suit on, I become someone else.

Alex: Yeah, even our relationship: it's odd but we do instantly have a different relationship.

Greg:  It is odd because it's all very cordial off set, but as soon as I step onto set, there's just a natural irritation I feel towards you. 

 

How would you describe your relationship on-screen?

Greg: Someone asked Phil Wang what surprised him about doing Taskmaster, and he said 'I'm surprised that Greg really is bullying Alex'.

Alex: I've never felt it like that actually. I've always felt more scrutinised. It's definitely not bullying, because you can see how much I enjoy it. The moment we're off set, there's a real brotherly love there.

Greg: Uncle and nephew.

 

How much of the studio show is scripted and how much is totally improvised?

Greg: We do sit down and discuss what we're going to do, but I think the vast majority of that goes out the window in the studio. I'd feel pretty confident in saying there's very little faux-spontaneity. If a comment seems off the cuff, or a judgement seems to be made in the moment, then it was.  

Alex: The conceit is that Greg's seeing everything for the first time on the night and it's not far from that.

Greg: There are some tasks that will require some thought and my lumbering brain sometimes needs to let it marinate overnight but you're largely seeing us flying by the seat of our pants.

Alex: Greg never knows anything I'm going to say before the show, so when he's reacting to me it's completely off the cuff and we obviously never know what the contestants are going to say at any point.

Greg: It's one of the exciting things about it. I might have some discussion points in my head beforehand, because I know there's a certain task coming up, but more often than not they won't even get used. The group gels as the series moves on and they have such a distinct language and way of responding and the characters emerge so beautifully that very quickly it feels like a gang.

 

How do you get such good names to take part?

Alex: Word of mouth has really helped us. I do quite often thank Frank Skinner because he agreed to do the very first series and that was a real stamp of approval. He had a nice time on it, which really helps, so that set the ball rolling.  And the fact that Jo Brand did it has helped, of course.

Greg: The word's just out now that people aren't being brought onto the show to be humiliated. Well, they are, but it's very much with their consent and they know the boundaries of that humiliation. There's a very caring approach to the people that are on the show. They're not fodder. 

Alex: I think Andy Devonshire the director deserves credit too. He really makes people look the best they can in terms of the creative tasks where people make little movies or whatever. Sometimes they're a work of art.

 

You've also featured comedians who are on the cusp of a huge career, such as Romesh Ranganathan and James Acaster. It's a step up for them, doing Taskmaster, isn't it?

Greg: Because it's a ten-week series, by the last episode you really feel you know these people inside out. A lot of stand-up comedy fans watch it then follow them. It's been really nice to introduce some people.  

Alex: I wouldn't hesitate to take full credit for Romesh's career. I wouldn't hesitate to say that man owes us everything. To the extent that I think a reasonable man would think about financial remuneration for it.  

 

Several former Taskmaster contestants, such as Mark Watson, talk about

Taskmaster in their stand-up afterwards. It's quite a big part of their lives.

Alex: Yeah. I think instead of a brief trip to Manchester to record one show, they spend ages with us, and they might be having a baby or getting married or getting unmarried at the time. They do their tasks over several different filming days between November and March and then they come to the studio for five full days.

They spend ages in the make-up room spilling, then they talk about their lives during the tasks because they bring in personal items or whatever. So, you always remember what you were doing the year you did Taskmaster. 

Greg: The tasks don't give people anywhere to hide. Stand-ups usually have absolute autonomy on what they want to put out and the persona they want to be. It's very controlled. So, Taskmaster becomes memorable for them because they're not performing according to the rules that they've drawn out for themselves, and they're showing other aspects of their character.  That can work negatively and positively for them of course, but I think a lot of people find it memorable because they're performing and not in a way that they traditionally would.

 

The best example of that has got to be David Baddiel, who basically had a very slow breakdown over 10 weeks, didn't he?

Alex: That was absolutely fascinating.

Greg: I mean, David Baddiel, that series, said to me on three separate occasions offcamera, 'I'm really intelligent, you know'. He started listing his books and even his academic qualifications at one point. I think he is the most stupid 'clever' person we've had. But that's wonderful and I think that anyone that watched David making those mistakes would just love seeing someone who's normally so cerebral be such a klutz. I think people really warm to another side of the man.

 

Talking of crossovers with their personal lives: does Josh Widdicombe still have your name tattooed on his foot?

Greg: I think he's got that for life. I'll never quite get over that. 

Alex: It was a good choice of tattoo, very funny. Not 'Taskmaster' or anything, just 'Greg'.

 

The show has moved from Dave to Channel 4. Why the move?

Alex: It was all fairly natural. We came to the end of our contract there. UKTV were very generous. We're so grateful they commissioned us not just once, but then for nine more series.

It wasn't like we broke off and said, 'We're heading somewhere else'. Even the advert breaks help because that's what everyone's used to.  Channel 4's a comedy channel, or at least historically it is, so the chance of more people watching it felt like a natural time to try to grow.  

 

Will fans notice any changes?

Alex: No. We haven't been pushed into booking any different names, we haven't changed any element of the show except some COVID stuff, like having to put the chairs two metres apart. There's a slight sadness to ending any relationship, but it's all very amicable and when the BAFTAs happened, we were on a Zoom call with them and they were getting drunk celebrating with us, which all felt lovely.

 

Congratulations on the BAFTA. Is it all the sweeter for waiting ten series to get one?

Alex: I think it's nice to be nominated a couple of times before winning it, because you don't take it for granted. And you don't expect it either.

Greg: I don't think any of the team expected it. It was a genuine surprise, but it's nice to have it recognised and especially for my little bearded friend there who devised the whole thing and so consistently sits in his jacuzzi and comes up with amazing tasks.

 

How was it to be given your award over Zoom by Kermit and Miss Piggy?

Alex: I like that it was them. It could have been anyone, it could have been a Spice Girl or a Bond actor, but everyone knows the Muppets.

Greg: It's funny, even getting such a wonderful accolade as a BAFTA, there was part of my brain going, 'Miss Piggy's voice is different'.

Alex: I was slightly troubled by that. I liked the Zoom element because we were all on a Zoom call and my kids were watching and lots of the team who would never normally be involved in the ceremony, because the ceremony is normally quite exclusive and only a few of you can go. They do all the work and then the execs and us go and pick up the award which never feels quite right.

Greg: I have to say I was Zooming with Alex and his family, and I'm not convinced his kids are into the show.

Alex: No, they're pretty big fans of Romesh [who was also nominated for The Ranganation] so they were slightly disappointed.

Greg: We had a lot of drinks. It was a really exciting internet party. Alex even got in his jacuzzi during it.

 

You're signed for six series with Channel 4 including this one. Given how popular the show is with comedians, are you able to pretty much pick and choose names at this stage?

Greg: More or less, yeah. There's still people we're desperate to get, and there are also people that are asking to do it, but they can't make the dates work. It's fiddly. 

But we're also trying to keep the line-ups interesting. No-one's ever predicted what the line-up's going to be and that's part of the joy of it.  There's lots of voices in the room about selecting the right make-up of people but I think most people who we've approached say 'yes' to an extent. It's not very often that people give us an absolute 'no', anyway.

Alex: The likes of Jo Brand really opened a few doors and the cast of series 11 is as good as any we've had in terms of not just the big names, but interesting people that you wouldn't normally see on this sort of show.

 

Is there a tiny tease you can give us for the next few series, any hints you can drop?

Alex: There's someone in the next series that I get asked about the most, I suppose.

 

Interesting. Johnny Vegas must have been up there for a while though, right?

Alex: Yeah, although I was nervous, in terms of him causing damage to himself or someone else on tasks days, and on the studio days I didn't quite know what sort of Johnny we'd get. Luckily, we got the tender Johnny, the funny Johnny and the artistic Johnny a few times. He's a proper poet. He puts himself out there.  His heart is on his sleeve throughout and joyously so.

 

What was Daisy May Cooper like?

Greg: I'll tell you now, Daisy May Cooper, as far as I can work out, for the vast majority of the prize tasks she just fell into her kitchen and grabbed the first thing she could. So, I was absolutely fuming with her before we started the record. I like that. It gives me something to sharpen my teeth on.

Alex: We've had 45 people on before, and we haven't had anyone like Daisy May Cooper. My wife is pleased with her, more than anyone we've ever had. She's very naturally funny. We always talk in comedy about people who've got funny bones and people who haven't, and Daisy is just a funny, funny person.

Greg: And she doesn't edit. I think her responses are very real and in the moment.

Alex: She made a film for us which she believed was a work of art, and as soon as we showed it, it was clear to everyone in the room it was dreadful. But she insisted it was and refused to speak for the rest of the show at one point.

Greg: She's not lacking in self-belief.  

Alex: She's also the most pregnant person we've ever had on the show.

 

What about Katherine Parkinson?

Greg: She's 90% strait-laced and then another side comes out when you push her, which wouldn't come out on most shows. 

Alex: She's very poised, she's a very elegant woman, but there again - a swan is an elegant bird until you put it in roller skates… My point is, it doesn't matter how poised someone is in their day to day life, the tasks will find them out.  And they did with Katherine and she responded mightily impressively.

 

What about Mawaan?

Alex: There's no doubt he will be a star. He is one of those triple threats, because he can do the singing, dancing, comedy thing, but he can also paint, he's got amazing dress sense, he's very confident and very funny.

He's quite quiet and quite often says the thing that shines through. He was a constant joy. With the younger people you don't want them to be dwarfed by anyone and he wasn't, he stood up for himself.

Greg: He was quite frustrated at being referred as 'the young man' throughout, by us suggesting he's got boyish charm. At one point he shouted, 'I'm 29!'

 

And Richard Herring?

Greg: I just really like him. He's quite a sensible man who does stupid things, so it's a perfect show for him. He's one of the mega-fans we've had on, who knows the show inside out. I think Richard is the only person I've ever met who, during the space of one task, can appear both 70 and 12 years of age at once.

Alex: That's true. I guess that's the same as all men. Men are always little boys and grumpy old men at the same time, but he is a particular example of that.

Greg: He said to me at one point, 'It's strange, Greg, you say such awful things to me and yet I'm not offended'.

 

Contestants often say they love doing Taskmaster because it's like being back at school.

Alex: Yeah, and they don't have to clear up either. They get permission to do silly stuff, they don't have to pay and then they just walk away and get given a sandwich.

 

There's a Taskmaster board game which is excellent, but it does involve making a lot of mess.

Alex: I know, I'm so sorry. i played that once with my kids, we have a massive row and we put it away!

 

The show's very popular with families, though. There's a PG version of Taskmaster on Dave so kids can watch.

Alex: Yeah, they were showing that at 7 o'clock every day during lockdown which is great and we're hoping Channel 4 are going to do the same. It's one of the few shows you can sit down as a family and watch, except for the swearing.

Greg: I'm amazed that I haven't had the expense of editing those taken out of my wages, because largely it's me being incapable of controlling my potty mouth.  

 

And the home-tasking that you did on Twitter during lockdown was also a success all over the world.  

Alex: We were amazed by the amount of different countries that responded to the tasks. I liked that there were lots of families, but there were also lots of people who were by themselves, which I almost found more touching. There was some bloke in his flat desperately trying to compete against a family of six…It formed real communities which was very sweet.

 

Alex, are you looking forward to being called Little Alex Horne by a whole new audience?

Alex: It's funny, it's not the words as such, it's the way he says it that annoys me. Because that's what people copy, they copy the high-pitched shouting. People are so disappointed when they meet me. They go, 'You're not very little', and they're cross with me.

 

Remind people how tall you actually are?

Alex: Way over average height.  

Greg: He's not. It's a lie.

 

Finally, who's on the hit list for more Taskmaster?

Greg: Well, go on, say it.  

Alex: Jack Dee.  

Greg: He always says Jack Dee, I think he's absolutely obsessed with the man.

Alex:  Greg and I had a chat yesterday and we threw some names back and forth. People like Lorraine Kelly.

Greg: Lorraine Kelly is my version of Alex's total obsession with Jack Dee. I have for many years thought I would love to see Lorraine Kelly responding to a task. I sense an inner steeliness and it excites me.

Alex: We had a very funny session, me saying names to Greg and him saying instantly yes or no. It's amazing that people like Debbie McGee and Krishnan Guru Murphy got through.

Taskmaster, starts 9pm Thursday 15th October on Channel 4. Catch series 1-9 on All 4