First look at new ITV drama Stephen starring Sharlene Whyte, Steve Coogan and Hugh Quarshie - The Murder of Stephen Lawrence

Sharlene Whyte, Steve Coogan and Hugh Quarshie play leading roles in Stephen, the three-part sequel to the groundbreaking ITV drama, The Murder of Stephen Lawrence.

Sharlene Whyte (Small Axe, We Hunt Together) takes the role of Doreen Lawrence with Hugh Quarshie (Breeders, Absentia, White Heat, Holby City) reprising his performance of Neville Lawrence from the original award-winning drama.  BAFTA award winning and Golden Globe nominated actor Steve Coogan (Stan & Ollie, Philomena) takes the role of DCI Clive Driscoll who led the investigation into the murder of the Lawrences' beloved son, Stephen.

Stephen portrays events from 2006, thirteen years after Stephen's death on the evening of 22 April 1993 in a racially motivated attack whilst waiting for a bus in Well Hall Road, Eltham.

Even though Doreen and Neville Lawrence knew the identity of their son's killers, the original investigation had failed to convict those responsible, and their extraordinary campaign for justice led to a public inquiry which branded Metropolitan Police institutionally racist and brought about sweeping changes in the law and police practices and transformed thinking and understanding of racial inequality in the UK.

Yet six years on from the Inquiry no progress had been made into the case. The drama tells the story of the ongoing struggle by Doreen and Neville Lawrence to achieve justice and how a detective, DCI Clive Driscoll – working closely with the Lawrences – puts together an investigation that finally – more than 18 years after his death – secures the convictions of two of the gang who committed the murder of Stephen.

Stephen will air on ITV later this year.

ITV launches On Yer Bike

ITV, the channel behind Soccer Aid for UNICEF, announces a brand new one off cycling show – all in the name of charity. On Yer Bike is a co-production between Crackit Productions and Initial TV, in association with Soccer Aid, to help raise money and awareness for UNICEF.

The 90-minute special will be hosted by presenter and cricketing icon Freddie Flintoff with the whole event spearheaded by cycling legend Sir Bradley Wiggins, the UK's most decorated Olympian and first British winner of the Tour De France.  

This one-off, primetime special will ride on the coat tails of the 2021 summer of sport and comes in light of the news that UK bikes sales were up by 63% in the summer of 2020 as the country pedalled its way through the pandemic.

In support of Soccer Aid for UNICEF, which takes place on Saturday 4 September 2021, this cycling spectacle will aim to raise money to help UNICEF deliver 2 billion Covid-19 vaccines around the world and help children get back to school, beat malnutrition and get the healthcare they need both today and long after the crisis is over.

Eight celebrities in two teams, England versus the World, will go head to head over three cycling legs, all set in the gorgeous and dramatic backdrop of rural Yorkshire.

The England team comprises of Coronation Street actress Sair Khan, actor Barney Walsh, Good Morning Britain's Alex Beresford and Emmerdale favourite Rebecca Sarker. The World team will feature comedian Zoe Lyons, actor Joe McFadden, Love Island star Maura Higgins and singer Keith Duffy.

The teams will ride in a peloton for each of the three timed stages and the last celebrity in each team to cross the line, will clock the final time. Who will impress Sir Bradley with their cycling skills? Who will be wheelie bad at keeping up with the pack?

This show will form part of Soccer Aid for UNICEF week on ITV - a whole week of extra programming including bespoke commissions and special celebrity versions of ITV's favourite shows - all in aid of Soccer Aid for UNICEF, as it celebrates it's centenary match. On Yer Bike will air on ITV and ITV Hub later this summer.

Freddie Flintoff said: "This show has it has it all – it's challenging, it's competitive and it's all for a good cause. Seeing celebrities in Lycra tackling the enormous hills of the Yorkshire Dales promises to be a real treat for everyone watching from their sofas!"

Sam Neill plus all-star ensemble cast join Christoph Waltz, Patrick Gibson and Sophie Wilde in upcoming fantasy adventure The Portable Door, a Sky Original

Multi-Golden Globe nominee Sam Neill (Peter Rabbit, Jurassic Park) joins two-time Academy Award winner Christoph Waltz (Django Unchained, No Time to Die) and Patrick Gibson (The OA, Tolkien) to star in the new fantasy-adventure-comedy feature The Portable Door, a Sky Original – adapted from Tom Holt's popular 7-book fantasy series. Prolific and award-winning director Jeffrey Walker (Ali's Wedding, Lambs of God) will direct the film from the screenplay adapted by Leon Ford (Griff the Invisible).

Also joining the cast is Miranda Otto (Lord of the Rings, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina), Chris Pang (Crazy Rich Asians, Charlie's Angels), Jessica De Gouw (Gretel & Hansel, Pennyworth), Rachel House (Soul, Thor: Ragnarok), Arka Das (Mulan, Lion), Damon Herriman (Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood, Mr Inbetween) and newcomer Sophie Wilde (Eden, You Don't Know Me).

A Jim Henson Company, Story Bridge Films and Sky production, The Portable Door, a Sky Original is produced by Blanca Lista from The Jim Henson Company (Alexander and the Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance), and Todd Fellman from Story Bridge Films (Daybreakers, Bait 3D). The Jim Henson Company's Lisa Henson and Chris Lytton are executive producing as well as Arclight Films' Gary Hamilton, Brian Beckmann and Ying Ye, alongside Julia Stuart and Laura Grange from Sky and Stan's Cailah Scobie and Shana Levine.

Julia Stuart, Director of Original Film at Sky comments: "It's very exciting to continue to build our content offering in Original film with such legendary partners as The Jim Henson Company and Story Bridge Films alongside our friends at Arclight Films. The Portable Door is going to be an unmissable adventure with a very British sense of humour that I cannot wait to share with Sky Cinema customers across all our markets."

The film started Principal Photography on 7 June in Queensland, Australia and co-producer Sky will release the film as a Sky Original in the UK & Ireland, Germany and Italy. Additional finance partners include Fulcrum Media Finance, MEP Capital and The Jim Henson Company with support provided by Screen Queensland, Create NSW, and Film Victoria. Arclight Films is handling international rights.

In The Portable Door, a Sky Original Paul Carpenter (Gibson) and Sophie Pettingel (Wilde) are the lowly, put-upon interns who begin working at the mysterious London firm J.W. Wells & Co. and become steadily aware that their employers are anything but conventional. Charismatic villains Humphrey Wells (Waltz), the CEO of the company, and middle manager Dennis Tanner (Neill) are disrupting the world of magic by bringing modern corporate strategy to ancient magical practices, and Paul and Sophie discover the true agenda of the vast corporation where they work.

ITV's The Larkins further casting confirmed

ITV announces further casting on The Larkins, the new television adaption of H.E Bates' novel The Darling Buds of May.

Already announced are Bradley Walsh (Pop Larkin), Joanna Scanlan (Ma Larkin), Sabrina Bartlett (Mariette Larkin) and Tok Stephen (Charley Charlton).

Joining them will be Peter Davison (the Vicar), Kriss Dosanjh (Brigadier), Amelia Bullmore (Miss Edith Pilchester), Seeta Indrani (Miss Chand), Robert Bathurst (Johnny Delamere), Stephen Hagan (Tom Fisher), Francesca Waterworth (Libby Fothergill), Barney Walsh (PC Harness), Tony Gardner (Alec Norman) and Selina Griffiths (Norma Norman).

Completing the Larkin family on screen will be Lydia Page (Primrose Larkin), Liam Middleton (Montgomery Larkin), Lola Shepelev (Victoria Larkin), Davina Coleman (Zinnia Larkin) and Rosie Coleman (Petunia Larkin).

The Larkins is a new six-part television adaptation of H.E. Bates' novel The Darling Buds of May, written by acclaimed screenwriter Simon Nye (Finding Alice, The Durrells, Men Behaving Badly) with the aim of capturing the warmth, optimism and escapism of The Larkin family for a modern generation.  Abigail Wilson (Trollied, Carters Get Rich, Stella) writes one of the episodes.

The book and its sequels were last adapted 30 years ago as The Darling Buds of May and became one of ITV's all time highest rated television comedy dramas winning critical acclaim and audience approval.

Set in the late 1950's, The Larkins is the story of a working-class family led by the golden-hearted wheeler dealer Pop Larkin and his wife Ma, together with their six children, including the beautiful Mariette.

Fiercely loyal to each other and their community, each Larkin family member has a strong work ethic, alongside a disinterest in authority.  

In the idyllic and beautiful Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England, The Larkins have achieved a small patch of paradise where nothing is wasted and they enjoy life to the full.

There's an overwhelming sense of plenty in their lives and a lot of joy and raucous laughter, as Ma Larkin provides a seemingly endless supply of delicious, hearty meals.  And no matter what time of day, The Larkins and their guests aren't averse to enjoying the odd cocktail or two!

The Larkins are fundamentally good-hearted people who are always happy to share what they have with others, despite the fact that what they have is sometimes obtained by unusual means!  In a rather mean-spirited way their good heartedness is not always shared by certain members of the local community.

From government officials and snobbish second homeowners to aggressive urban developers, the Larkins often deal with threats to their idyllic way of life – but they never take things lying down.

Alongside their weekly battles with authority and snobbish villagers, The Larkins will follow the love story between Mariette and village newcomer Cedric 'Charley' Charlton. Charley arrives in the village as an unworldly and officious accountant from the city, there to investigate the Larkins' tax affairs.

He is soon distracted by the beautiful Mariette, with whom he falls head over heels in love.  However, he quickly discovers that he has a romantic rival in the form of the handsome and mysterious Tom Fisher. Mariette, on the other hand, may have plans of her own, which don't involve men.

All episodes of the third series of Sky Original epic and rebellious drama Britannia will be coming to Sky Atlantic and NOW on Tuesday 24th August 2021

Sky today announces that all eight episodes of the third instalment of Sky Original Britannia will TX on Sky Atlantic and streaming service NOW on Tuesday 24th August 2021.

The series stars David Morrissey, Mackenzie Crook, Sophie Okonedo, Annabel Scholey, Nikolaj Lie Kaas, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Eleanor Worthington-Cox and Zoë Wanamaker. In a world of mythic Celtic tribes, psychedelic druids and terrifying Romans, series three will see a young girl try to build a rebel alliance with a group of misfits.

Series three sees a radical transformation in Cait's (Eleanor Worthington-Cox) journey as the Chosen One with a decision that will tie her to the future of her war-torn people and their ravaged land. Aulus (David Morrissey) comes under pressure from a new and dark force - otherwise known as his wife (Sophie Okonedo), whilst Amena (Annabel Scholey) finds herself in a lethal Ménage à trois with both of them. Divis (Nikolaj Lie Kaas) gets a new job which he despises, and Veran goes to the underworld and sees the future.

Created by the multi-award-winning writers Jez Butterworth, his brother Tom Butterworth and James Richardson. Epic, action packed, full of humour and terrifying in equal measure, Britannia is produced by Vertigo Films and Neal Street Productions in association with Sky Studios.

Britannia series three was commissioned by Zai Bennett, Sky's Managing Director of Content with Gabriel Silver as the Executive Producer for the series for Sky Studios. Series three is written by Jez and Tom Butterworth and Mackenzie Crook and produced by Rupert Ryle-Hodges and Matt Carver. Britannia is created by Jez and Tom Butterworth and Vertigo Films' James Richardson who all act as Executive Producers together with Neal Street Production's Nicolas Brown, Pippa Harris and Sam Mendes.

All episodes of Britannia series three will air on the 24th of August on Sky Atlantic and NOW. Viewers can catch up on all episodes of the first two series of Britannia on-demand on Sky and NOW.

COMPETITION: Win Innocent - Series 2 on DVD

Innocent - Series 2 - Released on DVD from 28th June

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

Synopsis: 

This dark and thrilling four-part drama, penned once again by dynamic duo writing team Chris Lang (Unforgotten) and Matthew Arlidge (Silent Witness), airs over consecutive nights and Innocent Series Two and arrives on DVD alongside the Innocent Series One and Two Box Set on 28 June 2021, courtesy of Acorn Media International.

When 16-year-old school-boy, Matty Taylor is found dead, brutally stabbed with a broken cider bottle, suspicion falls on his teacher Sally Wright (Kelly), who had allegedly been having an affair with him. 

Following a murder conviction and a lengthy sentence, new evidence comes to light and Sally is released from prison and free once more…or is she?  The case has all but destroyed the life she once had, a stable marriage, a nice home and a good job teaching English at a local comprehensive, now her reputation is in tatters and her life will never be the same again.

Filled with suspicion, secrets and lies, this enthralling drama will have you desperate to know who is guilty.

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SPbxHV

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 05-07-21
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.

COMPETITION: Win Three Families on DVD

Three Families - Released on DVD from 28th June

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

Synopsis: 

The Abortion Act of 1967, which permitted abortion in the UK, did not extend to Northern Ireland. The critically acclaimed Three Families, set between 2013-2019, tells the true story of three women and their families before the recent change to legislation in Northern Ireland as many voices would fight to be heard.

With a stellar cast including Sinéad Keenan (Little Boy Blue), Lola Petticrew (Bloodlands), Amy James-Kelly (Gentleman Jack) and Genevieve O’Reilly (The Dry), Three Families is a stunning two-part dramatisation, exploring the emotive issues around abortion in Northern Ireland, and the experience of families whose lives have been profoundly affected.

Dazzler Media presents Three Families on DVD and Digital from 28th June

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3xA7L3U

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 05-07-21
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.

Gok Wan hosts brand new ITV series Bling

Hosted by Gok Wan, the 20 x 60' series delves into the dazzling world of jewellery and beyond; from buying and selling to making and fixing eye-catching pieces, figurines and more.

In the show's very own Bling store, bling is king. It's a one-stop shop with four distinct counters, one dedicated to each process, with charismatic experts on hand to guide, advise and get the best deals.

Heart-warming stories abound as excited couples seek that perfect engagement ring, sell a hidden gem such as a delicate pocket watch, fix a much-loved family treasure, or even create a one-off bespoke item. While customers also share the more emotive stories behind their trinkets; perhaps beloved family heirlooms they hope are not damaged beyond repair or treasured objects belonging to a departed loved one.

Heart and purse strings will be pulled, as some customers look to sell and buy - perhaps even restore and sell - within the same visit.

And it gets competitive as the experts are ready to pounce on a colleague's customer if a piece catches their eye. When a customer hears a big valuation, maybe that cherished heirloom might suddenly seem dispensable!

Meanwhile the craft experts at the fix and make counters will have their skills stretched as they work on everything from necklaces to carriage clocks. All are set to be wowed and surprised with items ranging from costume jewellery to crystal figurines and unique objet d'art.

Join Gok and the team as eye-catching items, emotional stories, hard bargains and quick deals collide under one roof.

Gok Wan said: "Jewellery can mean so much more than simply being just an accessory. And figurines, timepieces and delicate heirlooms often carry a special significance. I can't wait to see some beautiful bling and delve into the stories that really make it sparkle"

EASTENDERS NEWS: Janine is back

She's back – Charlie Brooks is back in Walford as she prepares to reprise her role as Janine Butcher. Despite being away from Albert Square for over seven years, one thing viewers can be sure of is that wherever Janine is, drama is never far away…

The infamous Janine has been at the centre of some of EastEnders most unforgettable storylines. Known for her scheming, tumultuous relationships and explosive feuds with nearly everyone that crosses her path, she will stop at nothing one to get what she wants, most memorably pushing her husband Barry off a cliff to his death on New Year's Day 2004. There has been no limit to the scandalous stunts Janine has pulled over the years, cementing her as one the most iconic characters to have passed through E20.

Janine was last seen heading to Paris in 2014 to pick up her daughter Scarlett but her whereabouts have been unknown since then. With Scarlett also set to return, Janine's sudden reappearance will likely send shockwaves around Walford and with enemies to boot around every corner, trouble will no doubt follow her back to E20.

On her return to Albert Square Charlie says, "I am beyond excited to be slipping back into Janine's shoes and returning to the square. The time feels right, and I can't wait to find out what she's been up to for the last seven years! She is and always has been SO much fun to play. Feels a bit like coming home. It's good to be back."

Jon Sen, Executive Producer, EastEnders adds, "Janine is one of EastEnders most iconic characters who is loved, and often despised, in equal measure by viewers and all those in Walford. Charlie's portrayal of Janine over the years has created some of EastEnders most memorable moments and we are all really excited to see Charlie bring her incredible portrayal of Janine back again. We have lots of drama in store for Janine, in fact it may be wise for some of the residents of Walford to invest in some slip-on shoes…"

First Look Picture: Anne Robinson joins Rachel Riley and Susie Dent to become the three ladies of Countdown

Anne Robinson takes up the Countdown reins from Monday 28 June on Channel 4, replacing Nick Hewer as the first female host of Channel 4's longest running series.  She will join numbers whizz Rachel Riley and wordsmith Susie Dent, where together they will be the TV programme's formidable female trio, every weekday at 2.10pm.

On her new all-female team, Anne Robinson, who will become Countdown's sixth host said: "Three Girls Do Countdown - who wouldn't want to watch?"

Reflecting on filming with journalist and broadcaster Anne Robinson, Rachel Riley said: "It's been really fun watching Anne very quickly find her feet in the Countdown studio and seeing the contestants in the new groove with her. She's not shy of asking them funny questions and the responses have ranged from going into their own comedy routines to not looking directly at her and hoping she doesn't see them - it's been very lively!"

Susie Dent added: "I'm so pleased to be able to work with Anne again. She has been a heroine of mine ever since she gently rescued me from an embarrassing moment on my first bit of live TV. With her flair and wit, she's going to be a wonderful addition to the Countdown team."

Countdown, which airs every weekday at 2.10pm, is filmed in Salford and produced by ITV Studios Entertainment.  It was the first programme to broadcast on Channel 4, when the channel launched 39 years ago, in November 1982, making it one of the longest running quiz shows in the world.

COMPETITION: Win The Adventures Of Robinson Crusoe Original TV Soundtrack

The Adventures Of Robinson Crusoe Original TV Soundtrack - Out July 9th on Audio CD

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

Synopsis: 

To many people British television had its heyday in the 1960s, a plethora of entertainment for all ages.

Children's TV was no exception, the many adventure series, educational programmes and puppet shows all had a profound effect on those lucky enough to have grown up in those years.

At 5PM on October 12th, 1965 viewers witnessed a gentle sea rolling over a sandy shore that could just about be anywhere in the world, but in that short twenty seconds or so not only did we discover it was a 'Franco London Film' presentation of The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe', it also gave us that short burst intro to the theme that would stay with us well after the thirteen 25 minute episodes had faded into the mists of time. 

A collaboration between composers Robert Mellin and Gian-Piero Reverberi would give us the wonderful theme and incidental music from this much-loved series.

The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe was a French- German drama series made by Franco London Films as an adaptation of Daniel Defoe's 1719 novel Robinson Crusoe. It was the first, and often quoted as being the best television adaptation of the original story. The series would enjoy a huge European audience in what would be the very first European Television Channel co-production.

Silva Screen's original release from 31 years ago was updated in 1997 when new material came to light and is now reissued once more with a definitive history of the music and series written by Stephen Brown & Lynn Simpson.

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Tzy4bU

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date July 9th 2021
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.

COMPETITION: Win Diana At Sixty on DVD

Diana At Sixty - Released on DVD from 21st June

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 2 copies on DVD to give away.

Synopsis: 

Diana, Princess of Wales, would have turned 60 on 1st July 2021. To mark what would have been her landmark birthday, her friends, allies, people who worked with her, Royal correspondents, media experts and those touched by her charity work line up to discuss her life, her achievements and look at how she would have been today had she survived the fatal crash in DIANA AT SIXTY, a stunning new documentary from director Robin Bextor (Crown and Country, Hearts of Gold), that pays tribute and celebrates to her life and work. The film will be released on DVD and digital on 21st June 2021 courtesy of Reel to Reel Films.

The film sees Hillary Clinton lead a fascinating line-up of friends and associates, including Diana’s astrologer Debbie Frank and Derek Deane from the English National Ballet to discuss Diana, the Princess of Hearts, the People’s Princess and chronicles the life of Lady Diana Spencer, the young woman who married a Prince, but who went on to become an internationally loved Princess in her own right.  It delves into her life and important work during her 16 years in the public eye and explores her popularity with both the British public and with people all over the world. It follows the moving story of how the People’s Princess touched hearts, made a huge impact and became one of the most adored royals ever. 

DIANA AT SIXTY celebrates the fascinating life of one of Britain’s most beloved figures in recent history. 

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Svmb6o

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 28-06-21
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.

COMPETITION: Win Too Close on DVD

Too Close - Released on DVD from 21st June

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

Synopsis: 

BAFTA-winning actor Emily Watson gives another powerhouse performance in brand new nail-biting psychological drama Too Close.

Based on Natalie Daniels’ best-selling novel, we enter the world of dedicated forensic psychiatrist, Dr Emma Robinson (Watson – Chernobyl, Apple Tree Yard), who has worked with her fair share of high security patients and isn’t easily shocked…Then she meets Connie Mortenson (Denise Gough – Guerilla, Paula)…

Connie is on remand, awaiting trial for a heinous crime.  When Emma is assigned to her case she must explore the woman’s complicated mind to find out what really happened on the fateful night and what was it that made Connie into a monster?

Delving deep into Connie’s psych, she tries to find answers to how her beautiful friend Ness (Thalissa Teixeira – Baghdad Central), fits into the puzzle and why does her husband refuse to visit her? As Emma tries to make sense of everything, Connie starts to show a searing insight into Emma’s deepest insecurities and begins to brutally exploit them.

Their sessions become a complex psychological game with confusing and emotional undercurrents and the more Emma tries to uncover the truth and learn what triggered Connie’s despicable behaviour, the more she realises that her drive to get justice, may be the thing that destroys her.

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3glMS6R

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

Which actor plays Dr Emma Robinson in Too Close?

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

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 28-06-21
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.

Channel 4 commissions Rachel Nickell; My Mother’s Murder

Channel 4 has commissioned Monumental Pictures, Angel Station & Hatchling Films to make the 1x60 min documentary Rachel Nickell:  My Mother's Murder. This deeply personal authored film looks at the high profile murder of Rachel Nickell from her son Alex Hanscombe's  perspective and will also reveal the impact on the adults around him.  For the first time on television Alex revisits the events around his mother's murder, considering how this shaped the man he is today.

Alex was just two years old when he was the sole witness to his mother's brutal murder on Wimbledon Common.  After Rachel's death in July 1992, press and public alike became obsessed with the 'tragic tot' who witnessed his mother's murder just weeks before his third birthday.  Family, friends and professionals involved in the investigation worried about the impact it had on the young child, and many have not seen him since.

Months after Rachel's death, Alex and his father Andre fled the country to escape the public gaze.  Now, for the first time, they return to the UK and to Wimbledon common together.  Alex revisits this period of his life as he meets key people from the time, some of them friends of the family and relatives, others professionals involved in the case.

Whilst revisiting incredible trauma experienced by a young boy, we get to know Alex Hanscombe the man, offering hope that a life after unimaginable loss is possible.

Actor and comedian Michelle De Swarte to star in Sister’s darkly comic series The Baby for Sky and HBO

Sky and HBO have today announced the casting of actor and comedian Michelle De Swarte (The Duchess) in the darkly comic horror, The Baby, from debut screenwriter Siân Robins-Grace (Kaos, Sex Education). Michelle, who made her acting debut as a series regular in Netflix series The Duchess is set to play 38 year-old Natasha, with Amira Ghazalla (The Rhythm Section, Sense8) and Amber Grappy also confirmed to line up alongside De Swarte. The Sky and HBO co-production which has begun filming is co-created by Robins-Grace and Lucy Gaymer (credits as Production Manager include Gangs of London, Liar) and produced by global content company SISTER (Giri/Haji, Chernobyl, Gangs of London) and Proverbial Pictures. The eight-part series will air on Sky Atlantic and streaming service NOW.

Michelle De Swarte plays Natasha, who is the friend who's never made long-term plans. So when she is unexpectedly landed with a baby, her life of doing what she wants, when she wants, dramatically implodes. Controlling, manipulative and with violent powers, the baby twists Natasha's life into a horror show. And as she discovers the true extent of its deadly nature, Natasha makes increasingly desperate attempts to get rid of the baby. But while she doesn't want a baby, the baby wants her.

Making her acting debut Amber Grappy plays Bobbi, Natasha's younger sister, a children's magician and a ball of joy. Bobbi is everybody's favourite. There is nothing Bobbi wants more than to be a parent, to give love and to receive it. She couldn't be more different to Natasha if she tried. So when Bobbi sees her sister with the thing she wants most in the world – a baby – she is blinded by jealousy and unable to see the danger they are all in.

Also joining the cast is Amira Ghazalla who plays Mrs Eaves, the 73 year old enigma who has spent the last 50 years living out of her car. She seems to be everywhere the Baby is. But who is she, and what does she want with Natasha's new arrival?

Questioning who gets to choose and who doesn't, The Baby is a funny, raw examination of motherhood as an institution: a set of unspoken and often horrifying rules that affect women differently depending on how they're viewed by society. If you're not scared by that, you should be.

Stacey Gregg (Here Before, Little Birds) joins the production as the director for episodes two and three, alongside Faraz Shariat (No Hard Feelings, Druck) for episodes four, five and six and Ella Jones (Back to Life S2, Enterprice S2) who is confirmed to direct episodes seven and eight.

Michelle De Swarte said: "Natasha is an emotionally arrested, flawed and 100% relatable character that I find it hard not to fall in love with as I read through the scripts. To be able to play someone I not only understand but am rooting for is a dream come true. Siân has written someone with depth, honesty and an authenticity that is as hilarious as it is heart-wrenching. I feel extremely blessed to be working with so many kick ass women on a project that is deliciously female centred."

Siân Robins-Grace and Lucy Gaymer said: "Our Casting Director Aisha Bywaters has done a phenomenal job in bringing together Michelle, Amira and Amber these three incredible actors to helm the cast. As soon as we met them it felt like the roles were written for them. We're very excited to be working with Stacey, Faraz and Ella as directors across the show – brilliantly talented directors who will bring the episodes to life."

Co-creator and writer Siân Robins-Grace is joined in an all-female writers room by Sophie Goodhart (Sex Education, My Blind Brother), Kara Smith (Apple Tree House), Anchuli Felicia King (White Pearl, Golden Shield) and Susan Stanton (HBO's Emmy-winning Succession) with Bisha K. Ali (Ms.Marvel, Sex Education) as consultant.

"Diana" and "Diana’s Decades" - a definitive portrait of the princess from 72 Films

ITV has commissioned from 72 Films a new feature-length film "Diana" marking what would have been Princess Diana's 60th birthday, aiming to tell the definitive story of the most famous woman in the world.

ITV also announced a second commission Diana's Decades, a 3x60 series, from Spun Gold, taking in each stage of the princess's life as it played out against and influenced the spirit of the times.  

Told in the present tense, the 1x90 film Diana draws on never-heard-before testimony and rarely-seen archive footage to immerse viewers in the most iconic moments of the Princess's life.  

Using a rich tapestry of footage, photos and letters from those who were closest to the Princess, it pieces together her incredible journey from being a teenage Pimlico nursery assistant to finding her voice as the Princess of Wales.

The epic documentary, directed by the Bafta award winning Jemma Chisnall, also goes behind the scenes to provide a vivid insight into the complex woman behind the media image, who was by turns a global superstar, tabloid obsession, a wife in a tumultuous marriage, a devoted mother, a humanitarian icon and arguably the world's most hunted person.

Executive Producer for 72 Films, David Glover, says:  

"There is something a bit magical about Princess Diana – and despite the difficulties in her personal life she managed to use her connection with people to do huge amounts of good. Her 60th birthday feels like the perfect time to re-examine her life and legacy and explore just how she went from a relatively unknown teenager to the most mourned person who ever lived."

The programme is commissioned for ITV by Jo Clinton-Davis, Controller of Factual Entertainment, who says: 

"This year would have been Diana's 60th birthday, and the intention with this landmark documentary is to offer the definitive account of her life - both in front of the cameras and behind the scenes. It is a difficult undertaking to shed new light on the most emotional, dramatic and pivotal elements of the life of Diana, when that light still burns brightly. But by delving deep into her relationships with friends, colleagues and staff, our aim is to provide a vivid portrayal of the woman who became known as the Queen Of Hearts."

Diana's Decades will take a fresh approach to the princess's life – showing how she channelled as well as influenced the zeitgeist at the end of the 20th Century.  Each episode highlights how an era of her life encapsulated the spirit of the age and inspired profound social change. The series tracks down people – some who have never given interviews before - who met her or whose lives intersected hers in some way from her early Royal life as a shy bride, through her high-profile work for HIV charities and much publicised contact with Hollywood and pop royalty in the 1980s, through to her becoming the 'People's Princess' and emblem of a new public emotional candour in the changing face of Britain under New Labour in the 1990s.

The series includes extraordinary, rarely seen archive footage from the Princess's life alongside iconic scenes from the changing social, fashion and economic cultures Diana lived through during the 1980s and 90s – from the "big bang" in the City, the transition from Thatcherism to the Blair era and changing attitudes to sexuality, 24-hour news channels and the confessional TV of Oprah Winfrey, to the rise of the Spice Girls during "Cool Britannia".

Daniela Neumann, MD of Spun Gold TV says: 

"Nearly 25 years on from her tragic death, Diana, Princess of Wales continues to lead our news bulletins and conversations not just in Britain but around the world. Diana's Decades takes a fresh approach to recounting her life and legacy by looking at how she was shaped by the changing world around her and as a result transformed not just the monarchy but also society more widely as her legacy."

Diana's Decades is a Spun Gold TV production for ITV. The series is filmed and directed by Nick Angel, produced by Jim Boyers and executive produced by Teresa Watkins. It was commissioned by Jo Clinton-Davis.

COMPETITION: Win Parallel on DVD

Parallel - Released on DVD from 14th June

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

Synopsis: 

What if you found a doorway to infinite possibilities? What would you do? How far would you go? 

Thrilling new sci-fi adventure Parallel explores just that. This thrill-ride from director Isaac Ezban (The Incident, Barbarous Mexico), in his English language directorial debut, follows a group of friends who discover a parallel universe and with it the key to limitless power… but with it comes deep darkness and immorality. Premiering at Fantastic Film Festival, Belgium, and subsequently screening at FrightFest Halloween in London, this wild ride of a feature comes to DVD and digital on 14 June 2021, courtesy of 101 Films.

With a cast including Martin Wallström (Mr Robot, Wallander), Georgia King (Devs, Vice Principals) and Kathleen Quinlan (Prison Break, How To Get Away With Murder), this slick what-if thriller sees a close-kit group of 20-somethings stumble upon a portal to the multiverse. As they come to terms with this life-changing discovery, they’re soon playing with fate as they use the knowledge to influence their lives and fortunes.

As they push the limits of possibility, the stakes get higher and higher…with dangerous consequences. Will they become victims of their own success?

This spellbinding suspense drama transcends the boundaries of sci-fi thriller and will have your heart pounding until the very last minute.

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3w11Xjq

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

Who directs Parallel?

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

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 21-06-21
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.

COMPETITION: Win Boycie in Belgrade on DVD

Boycie in Belgrade - Released on DVD from 14th June

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 2 copies on DVD to give away.

Synopsis: 

Pack your bags Marlene we’re only off to Belgrade…When Only Fools and Horses’ very own wheeler car dealer Boycie aka John Challis learns that the classic British sitcom is massive in Serbia, he puts on his Burton suit and takes a trip to Belgrade to find out why, in bonkers documentary travelogue Boycie In Belgrade, which gets its UK premiere on DVD and digital Monday 14th June.

One half of the show’s favourite ‘classy’ couple that saw Boycie married to forthright Marlene – played by Sue Holderness, who recently returned to the small screen in another London fave Eastenders, the brilliant John Challis (Dr.Who, Coronation Street) takes a jovial journey to Belgrade to investigate the popularity of one of Britain’s best loved sitcoms.

He takes us on a tour of the city, as he looks to uncover why Only Fools and Horses is so popular in Serbia. From a royal palace, to a brandy distillery, via the obligatory car dealership, and even a turn in a Serbian TV sitcom, he gets the cushty red carpet treatment from admirers and fanatics alike.

This entertaining road-trip with sitcom favourite is a must watch for any fan of Only Fools and Horses, you’d be a plonker to miss it.

The film is produced and directed by British-Serb Lazar Vukovic, whose chance encounter with John Challis put the wheels in motion for what would become Boycie In Belgrade and with this match made in Peckham, this time next year they could be millionaires.

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3poKf74

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

Who is the actor who plays Boycie in Only Fools and Horses?

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

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 21-06-21
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.

COMPETITION: Win We Children From Bahnhof Zoo on DVD

We Children From Bahnhof Zoo - Released on DVD from 14th June

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 2 copies on DVD to give away.

Synopsis: 

The memoirs of Vera Christiane Felscherinow a teenager growing up in West Berlin in the 1970s were told in the mind-blowing bestseller We Children From Bahnhof Zoo aka Zoo Station: The Story of Christiane F., which shocked the world with its explicit tales of partying, drug-use, prostitution and the devastating aftermath. In 1981 it was adapted for the big-screen in cult-classic Christiane F. and now a brand-new TV adaptation brings this dark story bang up to date in a slick, gritty ride through the world of teenage life and the descent into destruction.

 

We Children From Bahnhof Zoo follows the life of Christiane and her tight-knit group of like-minded souls who are trying to find out who they are, what they want to do with their lives and where the next party’s at. This eight-part German series originally aired on Amazon and courtesy of Acorn Media International is now available on digital to buy and keep and arrives on DVD 14 June 2021.

 

With its stylish wardrobe and astounding night-club scenes, it has echoes of Babylon Berlin, and director Philipp Kadelbach (Generation War, SS-GB) brings a modern spin with a killer soundtrack from the 1970s, including a feast of Bowie greats, interspersed with a thumping mix of genres from techno to punk, hip-hop to dancehall and more, to create a cutting-edge thrill-ride.

 

As the six friends struggle to find their place in the world, their hedonistic lifestyle amidst Berlin’s seedy nightlife, leads them into the dark and dangerous world of drugs, prostitution and addiction.

 

We follow their rough ride into adulthood that sees Christiane’s (Jana Mckinnon – The Trouble With Being Born, Darktown) gradual descent into heroin addiction while Benno’s (Michelangelo Fortuzzi – Naked Animals, Druck) habit drives him to lengths he never imagined while paranoid Axel’s (Jeremias Meyer – The Old Fox, Vampire Sisters) heartbreaking adoration of Christiane persists and Michi (Bruno Alexander – World On Fire, Eden), secretly in love with Benno competes with  Christiane for his affection. Will they be able to overcome their addictions or will they be consumed by them?

 

This visually stunning, wild and daring take on the harsh realities of life once the partying stops, is an edgy coming of age drama that veers from dreamlike and trippy, to dark and poignant.

Pre-order on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3uWfUhi

For your chance to win just answer the question below.

What is the name of the actor who plays Christiane in We Children From Bahnhof?

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

Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 21-06-21
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.

Jamie Oliver: Together

Chef brings friends, family and Covid heroes Together for new series of celebratory menus designed to be shared with those we love.

Jamie Oliver is back on Channel 4 this autumn with a brand-new series, Jamie Oliver: Together (w/t). The TV chef will be creating a series of stunning menus designed to be enjoyed with friends, family and loved ones after so long apart.

The series will celebrate meals that bring people together and make special memories. With a collection of full feasting menus, from nibbles and starters to sharing plates and mouth-watering desserts, each episode walks the viewer through cooking a full meal from beginning to end, providing the ultimate guide to stress-free entertaining. Alongside the food, there will also be hacks, tips and tricks to set the scene and create the perfect ambience for your guests, and that's before we get started on the cocktails…

The recipes featured on the show are from Jamie's new book Together, which launches in September 2021, and will be presented in the simple, easy-to-follow steps the chef is known for. Whether you're hosting a beautiful curry night, summery feast or a celebration meal to toast all the birthdays and anniversaries we missed last year, Jamie's got you covered.

Alongside cooking for his loved ones in the series, Jamie will be opening his home to some of the frontline heroes of the pandemic to say a big thank you for everything they have done to keep us safe. From NHS staff to delivery drivers, food growers and vital service providers, Jamie will serve up memorable meals that we can all recreate at home for our own reunions and celebrations.

Adrian Lester joins Vicky McClure in ITV’s six-part thriller series, Trigger Point

Adrian Lester joins Vicky McClure in ITV's six-part thriller series, Trigger Point, written by screenwriting newcomer,  Daniel Brierley, and produced by Jed Mercurio's HTM Television

 

Adrian Lester will star alongside Vicky McClure in new ITV drama Trigger Point which will turn the spotlight on counter terrorism policing and the extraordinary work of the Metropolitan Police Bomb Disposal Squad.

Written by Daniel Brierley and produced by HTM Television, Trigger Point, is a high-octane six-part thriller series which focuses on the officers who risk their lives daily on 'the long walk' towards danger. For them, death is always just a heartbeat away.

 

Vicky McClure (Line of Duty, I Am Nicola) plays front line officer Lana Washington, who is an experienced bomb disposal operative, known as an 'Expo' and Adrian Lester (Life, Trauma) plays Joel Nutkins, who works alongside her. Both ex-military, the pair are close, having served together in Afghanistan.

When a terrorist campaign threatens the capital over the summer, the Expos are at the forefront of urgent efforts to find out who is behind the bombings before fatalities escalate…..

Further cast includes Mark Stanley (Honour) as DI Thom Youngblood, Warren Brown (Luther) as Karl Maguire, Kerry Godliman (After Life) as Sonya Reeves, Cal MacAninch (Des) as Lee Robins SCO19, Manjinder Virk (Midsomer Murders) as Samira Desai SO15 and Ralph Ineson (The Capture) as Commander Bregman.

Commented Adrian Lester:

"I'm really looking forward to partnering with Vicky on this great new series. Jed Mercurio's material is always great. This series is ambitious and challenging which is why it's exciting to be a part of the team."