Table of contents for Issue 1181 in Closer

As Closer reported last week, Cat Deeley could be set to bow out of presenting This Morning when her contract comes to an end in the spring. And now, sources reveal that former host Holly Willoughby is the surprise front runner to replace her, two years after she stepped down from her position on the ITV show. STABILITY ‘Holly’s exit left a hole that no one’s been able to fill. The bosses know it, the viewers know it. The only question is: does Holly want to step back into the spotlight?’ the insider says. ‘Holly leaving felt like the end of an era, but she’s still the face most viewers associate with This Morning. If she ever came back, it would be the ultimate reset. She’s daytime royalty. Audiences trust…

Jennifer Lopez and her ex-husband Ben Affleck raised eyebrows last week as they shared a cosy reunion at the screening of Kiss Of The Spider Woman, which Jennifer stars in and Ben produced. INTIMATE The former couple were all smiles at the New York event and, at one point, Ben even took Jen aside to have an intimate chat. Now, a source tells Closer, ‘They had a great time at the premiere, Ben was on good form and made J.Lo feel totally at ease, he was very warm and upbeat. The fact she got to exchange a few cuddles and private conversations on top of that was a real boost. She said Ben was totally charming and that he’s as handsome and charming now as he ever was.’ Their surprise…

When Millie Jones and her girlfriend Chelsea hold hands in public, they’re uncomfortably met with rude stares, pointing fingers and filthy looks. And, online, people call Millie horrific names and make hurtful comments about Chelsea’s physical appearance. Due to a five-inch height difference, with Millie at 5ft 6 and Chelsea 5ft 1, many assume Chelsea is much younger than Millie, and have therefore branded Millie a ‘paedophile’ and ‘predator’. Some have shockingly remarked that Chelsea looks like her son rather than her girlfriend. In reality, 24-year-old Chelsea Brown is Millie’s elder by two years. Despite the abuse, the couple – who have been in a relationship for 10 years – couldn’t be happier together and try their best to ignore the cruel comments. Millie, who lives in the East Midlands,…

From vomiting to exhaustion and weight gain, Kyra Vokes knew something was seriously wrong with her for months. But, as she was on the Pill, had periods like clockwork, and even had four pregnancy tests coming up negative, she and her boyfriend, Stephen Wallace, 28, ruled out the fact she could be pregnant when Kyra’s stomach swelled seemingly overnight. Eventually, a nurse diagnosed Kyra, 27, with an epigastric hernia, a condition where fat pushes through a section of the abdominal wall. Kyra says, ‘She had a feel of my stomach and even scanned me before diagnosing me. She then told me that I’d be referred for an operation to remove the hernia because of how big it was.’ Then, on 31 May this year, feeling too ill to work, Kyra…

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How much do you spend? Anywhere between £100-£150. My husband Marcel and I batch-cook a lot, so that saves money and means nothing goes to waste. Describe your daily diet… Usually in the morning I start my day with a matcha latte. I wake up really early as I’m on Hits Radio Breakfast Show in the morning, so I tend to eat breakfast afterwards, which is often eggs and avocado on sourdough. That’s a staple breakfast for me. For lunch, I love a really big salad with wholegrain rice, chickpeas, chicken, boiled egg and lots of veggies. That’s the meal where I get my main source of energy. I drink lots of water throughout the day and I add electrolytes too. For dinner it could be anything from chicken to…

Happiness is something we all want – especially for our kids. But according to UNICEF, the UK is near the bottom of a league table for the wellbeing of children and the happiness of teenagers. But it doesn’t have to be this way. ‘Whenever we talk about mental health, it’s at the point of crisis – but we should be looking at prevention,’ says Dr Alex George. For the former Love Island contestant and hospital doctor, it’s a subject that is deeply personal – his younger brother, Llyr, took his own life at the age of 19 in 2020. Now a podcaster and mental health advocate, Dr Alex has written Happy Habits, 7 Steps To Build A Happy Life (Puffin £9.99). ‘We should be helping children not only to be resilient,…

It’s no secret that heating bills can take a bite out of even the healthiest budget, so it pays to ensure you’re not making costly mistakes. Ryan Willdig from Heatforce offers these tips: • Don’t leave the heating on all day. There has been a lot of misinformation over the years that leaving the heating on low all day is more cost-efficient. In reality, it’s far more efficient and cost-effective to only use the heating when required. Ensure that radiators are off in any spare rooms, but also that the doors for those rooms remain closed so that the heat isn’t going in there, and the cold air isn’t coming out. • Poorly insulated homes, particularly lofts, walls and windows, allow heat to escape quickly. Simple and cheap fixes –…

READ OUR HOLLYOAKS TO HOLLYWOOD STARS SPECIAL ON PAGE 28 MONDAY 20 OCTOBER, E4 On 23 October 1995, a brand-new soap called Hollyoaks arrived on Channel 4, which came from the same stable as the much-loved show, Brookside. Sadly the plug was pulled on Brookie in 2003, but Chester-based Hollyoaks is still going strong today. To celebrate its 30th anniversary, bosses had the genius idea of bringing back some old Brookie faces – including legends Sue Johnston and Ricky Tomlinson, alias Sheila and Bobby Grant – for a crossover plot that runs all this week. ‘A lady serving me in the supermarket the other day was so excited about this crossover,’ says Sue. ‘She said Brookside was her youth and so many people grew up watching it. Then Hollyoaks was…

Meghan Markle was accused of being ‘utterly thoughtless’ last week after posting a video of herself with her feet up in a chauffeur-driven limo, smiling, while driving through Paris – the same city in which her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, died as a result of a car crash in 1997. ‘DISRESPECT’ One critic said the mum of two, who was there on a solo visit for Paris Fashion Week, had ‘no class, no sensitivity, no integrity,’ adding, ‘What a disgusting display of disrespect for the late Diana.’ Another wrote, ‘Calculated, unkind and triggering for her husband… makes me wonder about the real state of the marriage.’ And now those close to Meghan, 44, and Prince Harry, 41, tell Closer the moment has reopened old wounds. ‘For Harry, any link to…

As Closer reported last week, Eamonn Holmes and his girlfriend, Katie Alexander, have taken the next step in their relationship – with Katie moving in to support him through his next surgery. And now sources reveal that it feels like ‘a stab in the back’ for his estranged wife Ruth Langsford, who’s desperate for their divorce to be finalised so she too can find her ‘happy ending’. An insider says, ‘Ruth just wants the divorce to be over and done with, but it’s dragging on. The news is a stab in the back – she just wants to find her happy ending now.’ Back in 2022, Eamonn had spinal surgery after years of back issues and, just months later, required a shoulder operation after falling down some stairs. A source…

Filling in her online prescription, Nichola White carefully added 2st to her weight before uploading photos of herself, taken two years previously. At 5ft 4, if she gave her true weight of 11st 7lbs she wouldn’t be eligible for the Mounjaro injections that she desperately wanted. While she accepts it’s ‘wrong’ to lie, she justifies it by telling herself she feels healthier and happier than she has done for years. Mum-of-three Nichola, who lives in Rhyl, north Wales, and works in childcare, says, ‘I lack willpower when it comes to food. I’ve always eaten what I fancied, from kebabs to huge Sunday roasts, and I love takeaways. As a teenager it made no difference – I could eat anything without putting on a pound. But in 2008, I had my…

'THERE’S TOO MANY QUEENS, NOT ENOUGH THRONES!' It’s been five months since job cuts were revealed to be taking place across ITV’s daytime shows – with insiders speaking of turmoil for Loose Women. It was announced in May that ITV was axing more than 220 jobs, affecting beloved shows including Loose Women and Lorraine. And with worries now mounting over job security, a source reveals to Closer that there’s chaos behind the cameras of Loose Women. PARANOIA Our insider says, ‘The show is in turmoil – it’s the worst it’s been. It used to feel like a sisterhood, but now it’s a competition. There are alliances forming, people whispering in corners, and producers constantly trying to reshuffle panels to keep the peace.’ The show’s opinionated panellists – including the likes…

Since the first episode aired on 23 October 1995, Hollyoaks has become one of the nation’s favourite soaps. But it’s also been a training ground for many of its stars to catapult their career to the next level in Hollywood. And if anyone knows a thing or two about cracking the US, it’s former Hollyoaks actor Andy-Lee Newton, 44, who played Robbie Flynn in the Channel 4 soap from 2003 to 2004. He moved to Tinsel Town over two decades ago and now runs a successful relocation and visa consultancy business for soap stars hoping to get their big break across the pond. Here, he opens up to Closer about some of Hollyoaks’ biggest exports… Ricky Whittle Ricky Whittle played heartthrob Calvin Valentine from 2006 to 2010. His big break…

In the details It doesn’t matter what the occasion is, jewellery will always complete your outfit, which is why we recommend investing in classic pieces that will last for years. Luckily, H Samuel’s new HS Edit has got you sorted. Not only is everything in the range made from brass or sterling silver, but they’re also plated in 18ct gold – so you know your splurge buys will really stand the test of time. The best part? We’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win £250 worth of jewellery. To enter, visit closeronline.co.uk/fashion/news/win-h-samuel-voucher/*. Full T&Cs online. Prices from £24.99 WIN £250 TO SPEND AT H SAMUEL GET HER LOOK JENNIFER ANISTON When it comes to high-fashion looks, the Friends star knows a thing or two – proven by her…

1 A BIT OF BLUSHER CAN WORK WONDERS…I love the Charlotte Tilbury one, it’s brilliant for those days when you’re feeling a bit pasty. 2 I’VE USED THE SAME PERFUME SINCE 2007…Jo Malone’s Pomegranate Noir just smells amazing. I got it in a goodie bag, and I’ve worn it ever since. 3 MY ULTIMATE BUDGET BEAUTY BUY IS… Burt’s Bees lip balm. I like to use it on my lips and cuticles – it is an all-rounder! 4 WHENEVER I NEED A GLOW BOOST… I apply my Gem & Tonic Replenish & Rescue Hydrating Face Cream. It contains rose quartz, which is so good for brightening skin. And I love the body lotion too – it absorbs really quickly! 5 I WOULD TELL MY YOUNGER SELF TO… Prioritise sleep! Now, as an adult, I…

THE GYM KEEPS ME GROUNDED… I’ve been a regular for years, and three sessions a week of weight-lifting is my sweet spot. Any more and I’d just be exhausted. Cycling is another big part of my routine, and it keeps me fit while also giving me headspace. I KEEP IT SIMPLE WITH SUPPLEMENTS… I’m not someone who takes loads of pills or powders, but I do swear by Minadex. It’s a liquid multivitamin and I took it all last year. I barely caught a cold, so I put my resilience down to that. It gives me a little daily boost without overcomplicating things. A BUBBLE BATH IS MY ULTIMATE INDULGENCE… I don’t get the chance often, but when I do it feels like heaven. If there’s a hot tub around,…

‘This is a firm favourite for those nights when we get home from school and work, only to leave the house again for kids’ clubs, and need dinner ready the second we walk in afterwards.’ SARAH ROSSI’S RAVIOLI BAKE STEP 1 Put the spinach into a colander or sieve in a sink and pour over boiling water to wilt it. Leave to drain. STEP 2 Next, make up the sauce; mix the ingredients together in a bowl or jug. STEP 3 Pour about a third of the sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread it over the base. Add half of the uncooked ravioli on top of the sauce. STEP 4 Squeeze as much liquid as possible from the spinach (clean hands are often best to do this!). Chop the…

Donald Trump is well-known for his outbursts, but the President of the United States recently said something that’s not only wrong, it’s dangerously wrong. In a White House briefing last month, he claimed that taking paracetamol (known as acetaminophen or Tylenol in the US) during pregnancy could cause autism. He went on to say that pregnant women should avoid the painkiller, and instead ‘tough it out’ if they are in pain. Trump also repeated the now widely discredited theory that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) jab is linked to autism. His comments sparked outrage, disbelief and – understandably – panic in pregnant women. But I want to reassure readers there’s absolutely no cause for concern. Trump’s announcement is not based on any new medical research that shows autism is…

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL! MAKE A FOCAL POINT OF YOUR FIREPLACE WITH SPOOKY DECORATIONS GHOSTLY CUSHIONS AND THROWS ARE THE PERFECT UPDATE KIDS WILL LOVE DRESSING UP IN THESE FUN COSTUMES…

MONDAY 20 OCTOBER, BBC2 Need a little soul-soothing telly? Look no further than this gentle, feel-good show, narrated by Julia Roberts. In the warm and witty story, we follow the trials and tribulations of board game-mad friends Leonard (Alex Lawther) and Hungry Paul (Laurie Kynaston), who navigate the highs and lows of adulthood in their suburban backdrop setting. ‘It’s about kindness and the everyday things in life,’ says Laurie. ‘Sharing experiences with friends, connecting with people and appreciating small moments is vital. It’s funny, heartbreaking, strange, charming and beautiful. I hope audiences laugh, cry and recognise themselves in these characters.’…

IF IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK Use this year to get your life in order. It might not be fun all the time, but it’s your best chance in 30 years to get organised. Do let schedules rule your life, but don't let all the fun go out of it! It’s also a good year to be proactive about making more money. THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN Libra 23 SEP – 22 OCT If the people who matter most have been letting you down recently, then maybe you need to consider who you’re hanging around with. You have amazing stars for spending time with people who actually inspire you, so choose your friends and lovers more wisely! Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope SCORPIO 23 OCT – 21 NOV Why…

When Irene Dunroe got chatting to a handsome stranger at a bar one night in 1973, she had no idea that he would become the love of her life and they would go on to have a son together. But what came as even more of a surprise was that her beloved husband, Mick, would go on to change his name to Charles Bronson and became known as Britain’s most notorious prisoner… When Irene met Mick he was a builder and amateur boxer, but she had no idea about the murky world he was involved in which left him jailed for armed robbery when their son was still a baby in 1974. He was given a seven-year sentence, but his aggressive antics behind bars mean he’s still there 51 years…

CLOSER EXCLUSIVE! Feisty and full of fun, she’s a much-loved judge on Strictly Come Dancing – and Motsi Mabuse is just as warm and bubbly in real life. Meeting her at the UK launch of Elizabeta Zefi haircare at London’s John Bell & Croyden, Mayfair, she’s petite, excludes glamour and can’t wait to discuss the nation’s hottest topic…Strictly! ‘The celebs are a fantastic bunch this year,’ smiles Motsi, 43. ‘I can’t wait to see how all the characters develop along the way. Everyone fell in love with Karen [Carney] with her extraordinary performance on the first show, but if Strictly has taught me one thing, it’s that you can never predict who will be lifting the trophy at the beginning. Things can change so quickly and winners can come out…

JOYFUL BRIGHTS A colourful co-ord can be just as easy to wear as those more neutral, classic shades. Simply pair your vibrant set with a timeless white tee and heels, and you’re good to go! WEAR SEPARATELY OR AS A SET BELT IT OUT Define your silhouette with a belted blazer to complement your shape. Highlight the look with rich berry or deep chocolate tones as a chic alternative to black. SHADE OF THE SEASON STRIPE IT LUCKY Make navy pinstripes feel less formal with elegant cuts and colourful accessories. Add a pair of sleek sunnies and a matching bomber jacket for a more polished look. EASY TO LAYER UP LAIDBACK LUXE Trust Margot Robbie to nail the chicest blazer outfit combo. You can commit to the business-casual vibes with…

She describes her journey to conceiving as an ‘emotional and physical roller coaster’, but as Rebecca Adlington announces she is pregnant again, she tells Closer she is both anxious and excited to welcome her ‘miracle’ baby. The former Olympic swimmer – who is mum to Summer, 10, and Albie, four – announced the news on her Instagram last month and was flooded with likes and supportive comments. But it is a time of mixed emotions for Rebecca and her husband Andrew Parsons, who tried for 19 months to conceive this baby following a miscarriage in 2022 and then tragically losing their daughter Harper at 20 weeks in October 2023. And as the star shares her happy news, she says they are ‘cautiously overjoyed’ to be expecting. EMOTIONAL SUPPORT She tells…

FALL FOR IT New for autumn, M&S Pecan & Salted Caramel Blondies get our vote! Pecan tiffin infused with a hint of Marmite, layered with fudgy white chocolate and salted caramel sauce is a dream team of flavours for us. £5 for 185g. IT TAKES TWO Amoy’s straight to wok rice noodles are a lower-calorie, gluten-free alternative to wheat noodles – perfect for pad Thai and other Asian-inspired meals. Ready in just two minutes. From Tesco, £2.25, serves 2. CUTTING EDGE This elegant dark blue and gold-hued cutlery set exudes sophistication but comes with a wonderfully affordable price tag! Austin cutlery set. From Morrisons £16 for 16 pieces.…

Few people can say they bagged a prime-time TV hosting gig at the age of 22 – but after joining Countdown in 1982, Carol Vorderman went on to co-present the show for another 26 years. It made her a household name in her own right, and now as she looks forward to her 65th birthday this December, she’s back hosting Pride Of Britain 2025. Here, the TV legend tells us more… How are you feeling ahead of this year’s awards? I think there were around 100,000 nominations this year, which was quite colossal and made judging difficult. It just shows, with all of the turbulence in the world, people recognise goodness even more. Have any of the stories stuck with you from over the years? It’s an ever-growing family but…

WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER, PRIME VIDEO Harlan Coben returns with a twisty new thriller starring Sam Claflin and Bill Nighy, which is every bit as dark, gripping and binge-worthy as we’ve come to expect. After the sudden death of his father, Joel Lazarus (Claflin) returns home, only to be sucked into a chilling web of cold-case murders, old secrets and disturbing family mysteries. Each episode heaps on the intrigue as reality blurs and the past refuses to stay buried. Coben’s trademark cliffhangers are present and correct, and the performances sizzle. If you love your drama suspenseful and packed with gasp-out-loud moments, you’re in for a real treat.…

Victorian England never looked so stylish, or so scandalous, as in The Forsytes. Full of forbidden love and strong women, the series follows the powerful Forsyte family as tradition, social ambition and long-buried secrets threaten to tear them apart. At the heart of the drama are two women navigating society on their own terms; graceful dancer Irene, pursued by the determined Soames Forsyte (Joshua Orpin), and fiercely independent Louisa, whose hidden past with cousin Jolyon (Danny Griffin) threatens to upend the family. We caught up with stars Millie Gibson (Irene) and Eleanor Tomlinson (Louisa) to find out more… Millie, tell us about Irene. What makes her stand out in the world of The Forsytes? MILLIE: Irene is described as ethereal in the script. She’s a ballet dancer and comes from quite…

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GRUMPY GRAM After being inspired by Kim Kardashian becoming a lawyer, Ashley James beats that by training as a judge. Sadly, she’s not happy about having to wear those itchy wigs!…