Table of contents for Issue 1105 in Closer

A month on from the official launch of her new brand, American Riviera Orchard, Meghan Markle has now revealed her lifestyle venture's first product – a wholesome strawberry jam. In a sure sign that her PR machine is chugging into overdrive to salvage the Sussex name after a year of ongoing tumult, the determined Duchess, 42, personally sent out an exclusive batch of 50 jam jars to her closest high-profile pals. But while the lucky few – who include parenting influencer Kelly Zajfen, close friend Delfina Blaquier and Tracy Robbins, the wife of Paramount Pictures boss Brian Robbins – have praised Meghan's debut product, a source tells Closer that Meghan's timing for the launch has caused a rift between her and Harry. The insider, who says Harry believes they should…

A new baby brings a fresh start for many families, and that's exactly what Manchester City footballer Kyle Walker and his estranged wife Annie Kilner are hoping for after the recent arrival of their fourth child, a baby boy. Annie, 30, gave birth last week, with Kyle holding her hand – three months after the pair announced their marriage had come to an end when Kyle, 33, admitted to fathering a second child with Lauryn Goodman. But sources now say the couple are hoping that baby number four will breathe fresh life into their marriage. An insider tells Closer, “For Annie and Kyle, their new baby signifies a new start after a really emotional and horrible time. They now want to put what has happened with the cheating behind them…

Following his split from wife Victoria Rose O'Callaghan in November, Danny Cipriani has seemingly moved on with American actress AnnaLynne McCord, after the pair enjoyed a spiritual retreat together in Egypt last week. Their joint holiday came one month after Danny, 36, and AnnaLynne, 36, were first linked at a Clarins new product launch party in Los Angeles when they posed for photographs together and kissed on the red carpet. The former England rugby player – who has been linked to several stars in the past including Kelly Brook and Kirsty Gallagher – and AnnaLynne are said to have known each other for over 10 years before they started hooking up at the start of March this year.…

Once notorious for her glossy showbiz life with her ex-fiancé, rugby star Gavin Henson, Charlotte Church's life now couldn't be more different. The mum of three reveals that she even recently sold her £2.2m Welsh mansion (nicknamed “The Spinney”) in order to “massively downsize” to a semi-detached house with her musician husband, Jonathan Powell. A big part of the decision, Charlotte says, came down to her finances. “I am not a millionaire anymore,” she says. “What mattered to me when I bought The Spinney is it was absolutely beautiful and close to the forest and it was a big mansion house. We had a school there for a bit and a studio. When it is used by the community, it makes sense, but when it is not used, it doesn't.…

On the 25th anniversary of her death in 2019, Nicole's sister, Tanya Brown, exclusively spoke to Closer about the case. She said, “Nicole was the most wonderful person – she loved her kids and spent her life making others feel loved. OJ was like a brother to me, but I know he did it. Over time, I've forgiven him, as I feel it's the only way to move forward – but I'll never forget.” Nicole, then 18, met OJ while working as a waitress in an LA club. The couple married in 1985 and had two children – Sydney, now 38, and Justin, now 35. Tanya said, “To me, they were the perfect couple. OJ would give Nicole lavish gifts – he once gave her a Ferrari. He was always…

NEWS Subject to availability. Selected stores only. Just days after her new show hit screens, TV critics were quick to blast Stacey Solomon for being out of her depth. And we can reveal that the negative criticism has left the star feeling as though she's let everyone around her down. Over the last few years, Stacey has been building up her presenting credentials, with successful series, including home transformation show Sort Your Life Out. But her new Channel 4 programme, Renovation Rescue, doesn't seem to be going down as well. DISAPPOINTMENT After The Guardian called Stacey, 34, “out of her depth” and gave her latest TV offering – which was spearheaded by Reese Witherspoon's production company, Hello Sunshine – two stars, a source says, “Stacey doesn't usually let bad reviews…

Laura and fellow influencer Lottie Drynan have attracted a host of fans with the launch of “Same Dress, Different Bodies” on Instagram. Laura, who is a size 26, and Lottie, who is a size 12, try on the same dress or outfit and give their verdicts. Laura explains, “When I go out, people used to shout ‘Bake Off’ at me, and now they come up and say, ‘I love that series you do’. People have said to me, ‘I genuinely thought everything would look better on Lottie, but there are some things that look better on you’, and it just goes to show that style has no size.” The series has become so popular that the pair are doing their first live show in June. And Laura says the interest…

NICE AS PIE Rude Health's Maple & Pecan Granola contains buttery roasted pecan, whole grains and sunflower seeds, finished with a drizzle of Canadian maple syrup. High in fibre, it's the perfect start to your day. From Waitrose and Ocado, £4 per 400g. POWER OF FLAXSEED Help manage aches, digestive problems, low mood and fatigue with Linwoods Flaxseed, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Walnut & CoQ10 mix. The mix is high in omega-3 fats, and fibre, which supports gut health. Tesco, Sainsbury's and Holland & Barrett, from £6.20. BEST OF BOTH SMUG Dairy range includes a Dairy Blended Oat & Dairy Cheddar, milk, butter and spreadable butter, all containing the goodness of dairy and plants together. From Tesco, Morrisons, Sainsbury's and Co-op, from £1.95.…

COMEDIAN HELEN LEDERER, 69, ON HOW SHE LOOKS AFTER HER BODY AND MIND… A BATH HELPS ME UNWIND BEFORE BED… Being in the tub might be a bit like going back into the womb, I love the warmth and safety of it. There's something about lighting a candle and putting lots of scents in the bath. MEDITATION APPS ARE GREAT… Those five/10-minute mindfulness app sessions can be incredibly useful for when you can't sleep or if you wake up early. I like to do something with my mind, rather than just stressing about the fact that I'm awake. VITAMIN D SUPPLEMENTS ARE A GREAT MOOD BOOSTER… As we don't live in a climate where we get a lot of vitamin D, I take supplements. I also feel that it gives…

Closer TV TV WEEK: 27 APR-3 MAY 1 THE PIANO NEW SERIES REALITY SHOW RETURNS SUN 28 APR, 9PM, C4 Claudia Winkleman is back with a second season of the talent show that sees some of the UK's best amateur pianists battle it out at train stations across the country for a chance to perform at the Royal Festival Hall. The series has been called a “breath of fresh air” and there will be seven episodes this time (extended from five), with judges Mika and Lang Lang returning alongside Clauds. Competition is set to be tight, with the search beginning in Manchester Piccadilly station – where they discover a classically-trained boxer, a dance DJ, and an 80-year-old romantic… FACTFILE: Series one in February 2023 was won by Lucy Illingworth –…

23-29 APRIL GEMINI 21 MAY – 20 JUN You can expect recent confusion regarding a friendship or community situation to begin to clear up this week. Soon, you're going to be in a massive growth phase and not everyone can come along for the ride. Sad but true. Not everything can go back to the way it was before. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope CANCER 21 JUN – 22 JUL Professional and/or life direction hiccups begin to subside now. Despite this, those hiccups were enough for you to question your ambitions and the things you thought you wanted. There's a reason it's called the path less travelled. You're invited to take the path you thought you wouldn't. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope LEO 23 JUL – 22 AUG…

‘FROM HER PERSPECTIVE, ALL SHE WAS DOING WAS STANDING UP FOR A MATE’ Pantomime season may be over, but the claws were out earlier this month when two of showbiz's biggest divas – Sharon Osbourne and Amanda Holden – clashed in an online mudslinging match over music and entertainment mogul, Simon Cowell. And while Simon's close pal Amanda, 53, was the one to ignite the public feud, insiders say the Britain's Got Talent judge has been left in shock by Sharon's targeted outburst against her on social media. WARNING A source says, “Amanda Holden was left devastated by Sharon's outburst on X. She was only sticking up for Simon, who's her friend, and stands by her words. “She and her inner circle think Sharon is jealous, but Amanda was totally…

When Alex Meyer watches her toddler son laughing in the bath, she remembers when bath time filled her with terror. Back then, she'd picture her baby helplessly sliding under the water while she stood nearby, paralysed with fear and unable to help. SUFFER Vivid and distressing images would repeatedly play in her head, often depicting the death of her children, husband or family. Alex, 32, a writer, says, “It felt like I was going mad. I couldn't shut my eyes without seeing these films play out – even when I put my baby down for a nap in her cot, I was convinced she'd die in her sleep. It felt like torture.” Every year, up to 27 per cent of new and expectant mothers suffer with mental health problems in…

Their 23-year relationship ended bitterly six years ago, but it looks like Lisa Armstrong could finally be ready to let bygones be bygones, after she unexpectedly offered ex-husband Ant McPartlin a rare show of support last week. The Strictly Come Dancing make-up artist liked a post from one of her telly friends hailing the presenter and his co-host Declan Donnelly as “simply the best” on social media the evening their show, Saturday Night Takeaway, ended its 20-year run. Lisa's olive branch came as Ant, 48, and his heavily pregnant wife Anne-Marie Corbett, 46, were seen at the show's after-party in London. And an insider tells Closer that it's a sign she's ready to leave the past behind and move on for the sake of their Labrador dog, Hurley, of which…

She has been famously unlucky in love, but Alison Hammond is said to be “happier than ever” after sparking a romance with a Russian masseur believed to be two decades her junior. The 49-year-old hinted at finding love late last year, with it now being reported that she's dating David Putman, who also works as a dancer and model. Eagle-eyed fans have noticed that Alison – who recently replaced the late Paul O'Grady as the host of For The Love Of Dogs – has been posting “heart eyes” emojis beneath David's uploads to his Instagram page, where he is also followed by Alison's best friend, Josie Gibson. A source says of her blossoming romance, “Alison has never been happier. She's had a turbulent love life, but is finally confident she…

Announcing his daughter's arrival with a sweet snap of him and wife Amelia Tank leaving the hospital, Olly Murs is now officially a dad. The former The X Factor contestant, 39, took to Instagram to write, “Our mini Murs has arrived. Madison, we love you so much already.” Olly's celebrity friends and followers were quick to share their well wishes for the new parents, with Michelle Keegan writing, “Aww congratulations to you both”, while Leona Lewis commented, “Welcome little angel.” Olly and Amelia, 31, met through social media in 2019 and got engaged in 2022, before tying the knot in a festival-themed ceremony the following year.…

ROCHELLE HUMES, 35 ‘A nice walk and some Pilates works for me.’ VOGUE WILLIAMS, 38 ‘I love Gymondo [workout app].’ CHARLOTTE CROSBY, 33 ‘I'm the happiest and healthiest I have ever felt, thanks to my Blitz ‘N’ Burn app with calorie-busting workouts.’ AMANDA HOLDEN, 53 ‘I drink a lot of water as I know it's good for my body and soul.’ KHLOÉ KARDASHIAN, 39 ‘It was never: ‘I want to look good in a bikini.’ I just wanted to feel good mentally. And when you start putting yourself first, you start feeling so much better.’ MICHELLE HEATON, 44 ‘Love a weight lifting session.’ ELIZABETH HURLEY, 58 ‘I love working in my garden. I walk my dogs a lot, too.’ FRANKIE BRIDGE, 35 ‘Exercise plays a vital role in boosting my…

In May 1996, Closer writer Jean Jollands scooped an interview with OJ – and says his presence was “unnerving”. She says, “On a warm Sunday afternoon in a pub in Cobham, Surrey, I sat face to face with the most notorious man on the planet. “Just seven months after the ‘not guilty’ verdict, OJ flew to the UK to appear on TV. A young nervy reporter in only my second proper job, I'd somehow convinced his PR, Max Clifford, to give me the newspaper exclusive. The other pub customers gawped on, horrified, as I followed Clifford, OJ and Colin the photographer out into the beer garden. “OJ was dressed as if he were about to play a round of golf, in casual slacks and a pristine white polo shirt. His…

INSIDE SANDI'S FRIDGE ● Eggs ● Yakult ● Smarties ● Chocolate eclairs ● Chicken breast ● Butter ● Prawns ● Green beans ● Lamb ● Sausages ● Avocado ● Cheddar cheese ● Onion ● Tomato ● Broccoli ● Parsnips ● Spring onion ● Carrots ● Salad leaves ● Prosecco VERDICT CLOSER NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAYS: “Sandi starts her day well with a breakfast that's packed with whole grains from the seeded bread, protein from the salmon and egg, bone-friendly calcium from the cheese and good fats from the avocado. She does eat a lot of foods that are high in saturated fats such as sausages, lamb, duck fat, chocolate and eclairs. These can raise cholesterol so it's best to limit them. She could eat more fruit, too.” CLOSER ONLINE…

ALL ABOUT YOU  REPAIR A BROKEN RELATIONSHIP Apparently, Prince Harry is full of regret that his relationship with Kate collapsed. Here's how to extend an olive branch… There are some simple rules to bear in mind if you want to repair a relationship. You shouldn't do it if your intention is to reignite a feud or make a point. If you've been able to accept whatever has happened and can put it behind you, reach out and without caveat say you want to reconnect. An apology isn't always necessary. You can agree to disagree, while also recognising the part you played in the fallout. Say, “Let's leave what happened in the past and make a pact to start afresh and move forward”. I know of someone who hadn't spoken to…

Originally coined by comedian and writer Lukas Battle, the viral trend of “loud budgeting” is all about being upfront and unashamed about money. It's been endorsed by various experts, so we spoke to personal finance expert at Starling Bank, Rachel Kerrone, and Money Supermarket guru, Kara Gammell, to figure out how it can help you… PRACTISE OPENING UP We've traditionally been taught not to discuss our finances, but loud budgeting encourages us to remove this stigma. “Our research found that 80 per cent of people have worried about money in the last year,” says Kara. “Chances are if you're experiencing a money problem, others have probably felt it too. You don't have to mention exact numbers, rather talk about how you're feeling and how it's affecting you. It sometimes helps…

AFFORDABLE TREATS! GET HER LOOK KRISTEN WIIG Give tailoring a more casual approach just like Kristen by styling a brown boxy-style blazer with a pair of dark wideleg jeans. Finish the outfit with either coordinating boots or a pair of white trainers. IN THE NEWS… BASIC INSTINCTS Zara McDermott is entering the world of fashion with a collection that we want to get our hands on. RISE is a brand that puts comfort, inclusivity and style at the forefront of its designs. Think neutral linen short sets that will be great for when the warmer weather arrives, rib trousers that effortlessly sculpt to your body, and soft jumpers that are great for layering. Available from F&F in sizes 6-22, prices start at £12. FASHION WORTH TALKING ABOUT! GO FOR GREEN…

SKIN SMOOTHER If you're struggling with uneven texture, opt for a refining scrub. It's packed with real strawberries and white sugar crystals to gently exfoliate and reveal smoother and softer skin. FRESH SUGAR STRAWBERRY EXFOLIATING FACE WASH, FROM £14 MOISTURE BOOST For a pampering treat, apply this face oil as the last step of your evening skincare routine. The strawberry seed oil delivers a potent hit of moisture, while also strengthening your skin. BYBI STRAWBERRY BOOSTER FACIAL OIL, £13 POUT PERFECTOR This balm harnesses the alpha hydroxy acids found in strawberries to help buff away dead skin cells and revive chapped lips, keeping them smooth and hydrated. LANOLIPS 101 OINTMENT MULTIBALM STRAWBERRY, £8.99 BLEMISH BUSTER Perfect for oilier skin types and acne-prone complexions, this purifying mask features an omegarich super…

Kaleb Cooper, 25, works with Jeremy Clarkson as his right-hand man… How has filming been? When you first see us, it's a bad start – it was pretty wet over the summer. Farming is a risky job, but we're a team at the end of the day and we're all in this together. Is there a message you'd like to get across during this series? I always try to be positive and I'm very passionate about getting young farmers into farming. But the industry is on its knees right now. It doesn't feel like the government is acting to secure farming's future and the public need to understand how it will affect everyone. How's your friendship with Jeremy? In this series, we probably have our biggest ever argument – but…

IF IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK With everything you gain, you lose something too. Don't take this as negative, it's the way the Universe works. The changes you've made may feel like a loss in the short term, but trust that it's a gain for the long term – and that they will soon pay off. TAURUS 20 APR – 20 MAY Last week's drama starts to settle down a bit. But this isn't an invitation to go back to your old ways. Once a rubber band has been stretched, it doesn't go back to its old dimensions. Everything is likely to look a bit different now, including you! Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope…

She showed off her recent weight loss in a risqué sheer black dress at the Olivier Awards last weekend – shrugging off the recent controversy over the early closure of her show as she flashed her biggest smile on the red carpet. Sheridan Smith, 42, wowed fans as she flaunted her significantly slimmer frame in a black boob tube and highwaisted knickers underneath her see-through jewelled dress. POOR REVIEWS One fan commented, “Wow, she looks amazing!!!” While another added, “Sheridan is giving Hollywood vibes right there!” Her appearance came just days after it was announced her West End musical, Opening Night, will close two months earlier than planned following reports audience members “walked out” amid a string of poor reviews. But pals say the actress – who in December announced,…

Graphic designer and children's author Octavia Lonergan, 43, who lives in Croydon, suffered with Post Natal Depression (PND) after the birth of her identical twin girls. Her daughters were born by Caesarean in December 2018, after Octavia was diagnosed with HELLP Syndrome at 35 weeks pregnant. She says, “I had my C-section under general anaesthetic because HELLP Syndrome, which affects blood clotting and the liver, meant I was at increased risk of haemorrhage. “Our baby girls were delivered weighing 5lbs 3oz and 5lbs 5oz and I was able to meet them when I woke up. I was very happy but there wasn't a rush of love – instead I was amazed at how big they were. “We came home a week later and while I'd thought I'd instinctively know how…

Having made more public appearances together recently, Louise Redknapp and her new man, Drew Michael, are said to have grown more serious. The couple's relationship appears to be going from strength to strength after they stepped out for the gala performances of Cabaret and Sister Act last month, and an insider reveals that the star is happy with how things are developing with the businessman. “Louise initially wanted to keep the relationship out of the public eye until they got to know each other, but now she loves going out on date nights with Drew,” a source tells Closer. “He really makes her laugh and she feels like she can be herself with him. She's seeing where it goes, but friends wouldn't be surprised if he moved in with her…

News of their separation on 5 April came as a huge shock to fans, and while the tone of the tennis-themed announcement was light-hearted, Sacha Baron Cohen and his ex-wife Isla Fisher have both since been spotted looking miserable. While Sacha, 52, cut a glum figure as he headed to a Saturday Night Live cast party in New York last week, Isla, 48, looked serious as she ditched her wedding ring and tied her hair into a messy bun for a dog walk in North London. Despite news of their decision to divorce after 20 years of marriage coming just days after Rebel Wilson's allegations that the Grimbsy actor had bullied her on set – which he strongly denies – Isla's Instagram statement revealed that the pair actually split back…

Since starring on The Great British Bake Off in 2020, Laura Adlington has made a name for herself as a body positivity champion, amassing 370k followers on Instagram where she shares plus-size fashion and confidence-boosting messages. Just three weeks ago, she racked up over 50,000 likes after posting a picture of herself in a swimsuit on holiday. In the caption she poignantly wrote, “I'll be honest, the first thing I noticed was my bingo wings. Then my lumpy legs. Then my stomach. My first thought was ‘Ugh’. The temptation to delete it was real, but I'm so glad I didn't because I also see a happy and confident woman having a lovely time on holiday.” REPRESENTED After years of lacking confidence, Laura, 35, says she is finally at ease posting…

“Nothing says ‘it's the weekend’ like a pizza! These cute little individual pizzas with an Indian twist bring two classic British takeaways together for the perfect Friday night treat.” BEC'S CHICKEN TIKKA NAAN PIZZAS STEP 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4. For the chicken tikka, combine the yoghurt, tikka paste, tomato purée and garlic granules in a bowl. Add the sliced chicken and smother in the marinade. STEP 2 Spread the chicken on a baking tray and bake for 10-12 mins, flipping it over halfway through. If the chicken isn't 100% cooked after this time, don't worry as it will be cooked again later on the pizza. STEP 3 Meanwhile, make a quick tikka masala sauce by mixing all the ingredients together in a bowl. Season to taste…

The auto-fill results on Google when I type in “How to tell if…” throw up a response I wasn't quite expecting, but one that's mildly reassuring. The top response for me and my algorithm is “(how to tell if) a guy/girl likes you” – my limited knowledge of how search engines work implies that I've not been the only one to search for the answer to how to tell if someone is into me. Even the book and later film from 2009, He's Just Not That Into You, can't reassure me or confirm things because the dating world has changed inconceivably since then! I don't even know how to interpret things, read between the lines or guess what's going on. I appreciate that most advice (and it's good advice too)…

Sick of paying over the odds for specs? Try online instead – you can take your prescription anywhere. ● GET A FREE EYE TEST If you work on a screen, you can claim the full cost of a standard test from your employer. If you need glasses for your job, they should either pay for basic glasses or contribute – ask HR. ● CHECK TERMS AND CONDITIONS Found a great offer? Check the small print – does it only offer certain lenses or frames? Will you have to pay inflated prices for coatings? ● MEASURE YOUR PD When ordering specs online, you need to measure your pupillary distance (PD) – the distance between the centre of your pupils. Specsavers has an online tool, or you can buy the little ruler…

MONOCHROME Monochrome is huge this season. Giving it a preppy twist like Sabrina taps into two trends at once, while a white shirt is a staple that can be layered under anything for great cost-per-wear. VARSITY COOL For an athleisure-inspired update on last season's must-have bomber, opt for a varsity jacket. It'll look great with jeans or leggings, or contrast this sporty cover-up with tailored trousers for extra style points. RE-WORK FOR THE OFFICE STYLISH SHORTS Shorts season is on the horizon, and if you're looking for a unique way to wear them, opt for a striped shirt and jersey short combo. The look can easily be re-worked with a simple swap of shoes. TRAIL BLAZER The Crown star Emma gets house points for this fun take on the prep-school…

The domestic abuse plot continues with newlyweds Tom and Belle, as Tom manipulates and coercively controls his wife. This week, she worries she could be pregnant – and finds a moment alone to take a test (though Tom still finds a way to creepily lurk in the background…). It's negative (phew!) but Tom is disappointed, and this is not someone you want to upset! Emmerdale has confirmed plans for a special episode following the pair's relationship, with the long-running storyline stepping up and being carefully researched. FOLLOW OUR LIVE TWEETS OVER AT @CloserOnline…

What can you remember from the launch show? SUSANNA REID, 53: Sitting next to Ben Shephard who, just as the opening credits were rolling, whispered, “You'll never get another chance to relive this moment – so enjoy every second!” CHARLOTTE HAWKINS, 48: There was such a sense of anticipation of being there to launch a brand-new show, and all that was to come… Memories over the years? SUSANNA: Reporting live from Westminster Abbey for the Queen's funeral was incredibly moving. And interviewing Boris Johnson at No 10 just months before he resigned. KATE GARRAWAY, 56: We're lucky enough to have interviewed so many stars over the years, and you begin to feel part of their journey as they grow up and develop. The young gang of the Harry Potter films were…

1. These terms and conditions together with any specific rules displayed or referred to on the relevant page of Closer magazine in respect of a prize draw or competition (a “Prize Draw Notice”) and H Bauer Publishing's General Terms and Conditions (available online at http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html) are the prize draw rules (the “Rules”) that apply to each and every prize draw and/or competition of any nature included in Closer magazine (a “Prize Draw”) unless otherwise expressly stated in the Prize Draw Notice. By entering a Prize Draw, entrants agree to be bound by these Rules. 2. Each Prize Draw is organised by Closer magazine, part of H Bauer Publishing Limited of registered address Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA. In the event of a discrepancy between these…

Cardi's noticed that the Closer office has taken delivery of an emotional support pet – we're hoping it will come out of its shell. Oh Ry, it gets worse than early mornings. Try getting up four times a night for a wee and then get back to us about ageing… GRUMPY GRAM That's the last time Rita books a holiday on Airbnb without thoroughly checking the picture gallery. “Cosy and quirky” turns out to mean a damp and cold Hobbit hole. We suspect this reviewer will leave a 0.0 score……