Friday 29th May 2026
Today is National Paperclip Day, International Everest Day, World Digestive Health Day, International Day of UN Peacekeepers and National Coq Au Vin Day. Your star sign is Gemini and your birthstone is Emerald.
Today’s birthdays
1903 – 2003 – Bob Hope (100), British-born American comedian, actor (Road to Morocco) and entertainer whos career spanned nearly 80 years.
1917 – 1963 – John F. Kennedy (46), The 35th president of the United States, serving from 1961 until his assassination in 1963 and the youngest elected president at 43 years.
1949 – Francis Rossi (77), English musician and co-founder of Status Quo (“Rockin’ All Over the World”, “Down Down”), born in Forest Hill, London.
1956 – La Toya Jackson (70), American singer (“Night Time Lover”) and television personality (The Jacksons), born in Gary, Indiana, United States.
1959 – Rupert Everett (67), English actor (My Best Friend’s Wedding, St. Trinian’s, Inspector Gadget), born in Burnham Deepdale, Kings Lynn, Norfolk.
1959 – Adrian Paul (67), English actor, martial artist and director best known for the title role of Duncan MacLeod on the television series Highlander, born in London.
1961 – David Palmer (65), English drummer, percussionist and songwriter and a former member of ABC (“The Look of Love”), born in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.
1962 – Perry Fenwick (64), English actor known for playing Billy Mitchell in the BBC soap opera EastEnders since 1998, born in Canning Town, London.
1964 – Carol Kirkwood (64), retired Scottish weather presenter (BBC Breakfast), born in Morar, Scotland.
1967 – Noel Gallagher (59), English musician, singer and songwriter with Oasis (“Don’t Look Back in Anger”) before splitting in 2009, born in Longsight, Manchester.
1970 – Roberto Di Matteo (56), Italian professional football manager (Aston Villa) and former player (Chelsea), born in Schaffhausen, Switzerland.
1975 – Mel B (51), English singer and songwriter who rose to fame as part of the Spice Girls (“Wannabe”, “2 Become 1”), born in Hyde Park, Leeds, West Yorkshire.
1975 – Sarah Millican (51), English stand up comedian and writer (Thoroughly Modern Millican), born in South Shields, South Tyneside.
1978 – Adam Rickitt (48), English actor and singer (“I Breathe Again”), portraying Nick Tilsley on the British soap opera Coronation Street, born in Crewe, Cheshire.
Famous deaths
2003 – David Jefferies (30), English professional motorcycle racer (Isle of Man TT).
2010 – Dennis Hopper (74), American actor (Easy Rider, Apocalypse Now, Speed), filmmaker, photographer and visual artist.
2022 – Lester Piggott (86), English professional jockey and horse trainer widely regarded as one of the greatest flat racing jockeys of all time.
The day today
1920 – Severe flash flooding in the Lincolnshire market town of Louth, resulted in 23 fatalities in 20 minutes. A torrential thunderstorm hit the Lincolnshire Wolds, dumping over 100mm (four and a half inches) of rain in just three hours over the River Lud’s catchment area.
1953 – Sir Edmund Hillary and his sherpa Tenzing Norgay, became the first men to reach the summit of Mount Everest in the Himalayas. The news of the British expedition broke in Britain on Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Day, 2nd June. The Queen knighted Edmund Hillary later that year.
1954 – English runner Diane Leather made history at the Midland Counties WAAA Championships at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium by becoming the first woman to run a mile in under 5 minutes, clocking a time of 4 minutes and 59.6 seconds
1968 – Manchester United become the first English club to win the European Cup, beating Portuguese side Benfica 4 -1.
1969 – British Trans-Arctic Expedition, led by explorer Wally Herbert, completed the first verified surface crossing of the Arctic Ocean. Setting off from Alaska on February 21, 1968, the four-man team trekked across the sea ice via the North Pole and reached Norway’s Svalbard archipelago on this day after 464 days.
1977 – Nigel Short, an 11 year old English schoolboy, qualified as the youngest ever competitor in a national chess championship. He had already beaten Viktor Korchnoi during an exhibition game. He earned the title of Grandmaster at the age of 19.
1982 – In the first Papal visit to Britain since 1531, Polish born Pope John Paul II prayed alongside the Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first ever pontiff to visit the cathedral. He was acclaimed as one of the most influential leaders of the 20th century and was one of the most-travelled world leaders in history. He visited 129 countries during his pontificate, was the second-longest serving Pope in history and the first non-Italian Pope since 1523.
1984 – Police use riot gear for the first time since the miners’ strike began as they face the biggest picket to date at Orgreave coking plant near Sheffield.
1985 – 39 football fans were killed and at least another 400 injured when a wall collapsed during crowd violence at the Heysel Stadium in Brussels, only minutes before the start of the European Cup Final between Liverpool and Juventus.
1987 – Michael Jackson made highly publicised, multi-million dollar bids to purchase the skeleton of Joseph Merrick, famously known as “The Elephant Man,” from the London Hospital Medical College. Ultimately, the hospital rejected the offers, stating the remains were not for sale.
1994 – An incredibly bright daylight meteor, widely remembered in astronomical records as the “Great iceball comet,” streaked across the sky and disintegrated above the North Sea. It was clearly visible across parts of East Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and East Anglia. Sightings were also reported further afield in northern Europe, including the Netherlands and Germany. Because the debris plummeted directly into the water, experts conclude that no recoverable meteorites were ever retrieved.
1997 – Spanish scientists made groundbreaking discovery regarding early human evolution in the Atapuerca Mountains of Spain. While previous excavations identified the 780,000 to 850,000-year-old Homo antecessor, in a deeper, older layer of the Sima del Elefante cave, scientists discovered a fossilised partial face (including cheekbones, upper jaw, and nasal structure). Dating suggests the remains are between 1.1 and 1.4 million years old.
1999 – Space Shuttle Discovery made history as the first space shuttle to dock with the International Space Station (ISS). Commander Kent Rominger successfully linked the orbiter to the ISS’s Unity module, allowing the crew to deliver over two tons of supplies and equipment to prepare the station for future inhabitants.
2014 – Canoe fraudster John Darwin, who was found to have benefited from faking his own death in 2002, was ordered by a court to pay a £40,000 lump sum to the authorities after two of his pensions matured. A “Proceeds of Crime Act” hearing at Teesside Crown Court heard that Darwin had so far only paid back £121 of the £679,073.62 he was found to have benefited from his ‘death’. Anne Darwin, now split from her husband, has repaid more than £500,000 under a separate Proceeds of Crime order after selling properties held in her name.
2015 – The One World Observatory at One World Trade Center officially opened to the public. Spanning levels 100 through 102 of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the attraction offers panoramic 360-degree views of New York City and its surrounding areas.
2015 – Jurassic World, starring Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pine officially premiered in Paris at the Le Grand Rex theater.
2018 – Russian journalist Arkady Babchenko faked his own death. The media reported that Arkady had been assassinated on his way home to his Kyiv apartment. He appeared on a live Ukrainian television at a press conference the next day. The staged death was intended to expose Russian agents.
2018 – Returning classic US sitcom “Roseanne” is cancelled after star Roseanne Barr posts a racist tweet including a comment referring to former Barack Obama aide Valerie Jarrett as the offspring of the “Muslim Brotherhood & Planet of the Apes.”
2019 – The World Health Organization (WHO) no longer classifies being transgender as a mental illness. In its updated global manual of diagnoses, the WHO formally removed “gender identity disorder” from the mental health chapter, redefining it and shifting it into a new category dedicated to sexual health.
2019 – British politician Boris Johnson ordered to appear in court over claims he lied to the public during Britain’s Brexit campaign. The private prosecution against Boris Johnson over claims he lied about the UK sending £350 million a week to the EU during the Brexit campaign was ultimately dismissed by the High Court in June 2019.
2021 – Chelsea win the Champions League, beating Manchester City 1-0 in Porto with the only goal coming from Kai Havertz in the 42nd minute.
2022 – A man disguised as an elderly woman in a wheelchair threw cake at the Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting at the Louvre in Paris. The piece, which was undamaged, was left with white cream smeared across its protective glass.
Today in music
1942 – Bing Crosby records Irving Berlin’s song “White Christmas” becoming the best-selling physical single of all time, with an estimated 50 million copies sold worldwide. The song defined the modern secular holiday tune and became a nostalgic anthem for homesick soldiers during World War II.
1962 – Chubby Checker won a Grammy Award for Best Rock and Roll Recording for ‘Let’s Twist Again’ and Ray Charles won Best Rhythm & Blues Recording for ‘Hit The Road Jack’.
1965 – The Beach Boys started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with ‘Help Me Rhonda’, the group’s second US No.1. The recording session was interrupted by the Wilson brothers’ drunken father, Murry, who arrived at the studio to criticise the Boys enthusiasm. The recording reel continued to record the confrontation, which still circulates among fans.
1977 – Manchester band Warsaw, (later to become Joy Division) made their live debut supporting The Buzzcocks at The Electric Circus, Manchester, England.
1987 – Freddie Mercury and Spanish opera diva Montserrat Caballé debuted their iconic song “Barcelona” at the Ku Club (now Privilege Ibiza) in Ibiza, Spain. The track itself was written as a tribute to Caballé’s hometown, and its success led the pair to expand the project into a full collaborative album.
1997 – The Manic Street Preachers won the best song award for ‘A Design For Life’ at the 42nd Ivor Novello awards. Other winners included The Spice Girls for Hit of the year with ‘Wannabe’, Elvis Costello for Outstanding contribution to music, George Michael won Songwriter Of The Year and Most Performed work for ‘Fastlove.’
2002 – A 16ft by 6ft mosaic designed by John Lennon went on display at The Beatles Story museum in Liverpool. The mosaic had been built into Lennon’s swimming pool at his Kenwood home in Surrey where he lived between 1964 and 1968.
2005 – Gorillaz scored their first UK No.1 album when ‘Demon Days’ went to the top of the charts.
2006 – David Bowie made a surprise guest appearance during David Gilmour’s solo show at the Royal Albert Hall. It was Bowie’s first UK stage appearance in two years and it also became his last-ever live performance in the United Kingdom.
2020 – Lady Gaga released her sixth studio album Chromatica. This gave Gaga her sixth consecutive Billboard 200-topping album, the eighth woman to claim six chart-topping albums, and, at nine years and two days, the record for the fastest six album No.1 tally by a female artist. It was also Gaga’s fourth No.1 entry on the UK charts.
Today in history
1660 – Charles II marched into London and was restored to the throne, 11 years after the execution of his father Charles I.
1798 – The United Irishmen Rebellion against British Rule took place. Between 300 and 500 United Irishmen were massacred by the British Army in County Kildare, Ireland.
1829 – The death of Humphry Davy, the English scientist who invented a lamp for miners that enabled them to work safely in the presence of flammable gases.
1871 – Whit Monday (celebrated the day after Pentecost) became the first official Bank Holiday in Britain.
1884 – The first steam cable tramway began operating, in London’s Highgate.
1886 – American pharmacist John Pemberton begins advertising his patented medicine, Coca-Cola, in Atlanta, Georgia.
UK News
Toy Story superfan Vinny from Loughborough has been invited to the London premiere of Toy Story 5 after Disney tracked him down almost six years after a photo of him waving goodbye to his Toy Story toys on his first day of school went viral around the world. Disney surprised him with VIP tickets after seeing how much the story meant to fans.
Talker: What toy could you never get rid of?Poll: A) Action figures B) Teddy bear C) Games consoleRelatable: Most people still have one childhood item hidden somewhere.Wit: Some people get nostalgia. Vinny got a Disney premiere.Police dog Kaiser from Essex has become a national hero after helping catch dozens of suspects, including chasing one through deep water during a dramatic pursuit. Kaiser has now won recognition for his frontline work.
Talker: Are police dogs the real heroes?Poll: A) Absolutely B) Human officers are C) BothRelatable: Everybody loves a clever dog story.Wit: Kaiser probably deserves his own parking space at this point.Britain has just recorded its hottest May temperatures ever, with Kew Gardens hitting 35.1°C as the heatwave smashed long-standing records across the UK. Some areas also experienced “tropical nights” where temperatures stayed above 20°C overnight.
Talker: Do you love heatwaves or hate them?Poll: A) Love them B) Hate them C) Somewhere in the middleRelatable: Nobody in Britain ever agrees on weather.Wit: We spend 11 months complaining about rain then panic when it's sunny.French bakery chain PAUL has launched ice cream-filled croissants during the heatwave. The pastries come packed with soft-serve ice cream and have already started going viral online.
Talker: Ice cream in a croissant — genius or madness?Poll: A) Genius B) Madness C) Need one immediatelyRelatable: Hot weather always creates strange food trends.Wit: Somewhere in Paris a baker just fainted.The Traitors Live Experience has become one of London's hottest attractions, allowing fans to play real-life Faithfuls and Traitors through missions, banishments and deception challenges based on the BBC hit show.
Talker: Would you survive on The Traitors?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Gone first roundRelatable: Everyone thinks they'd spot the liar.Wit: Most people can't survive family WhatsApp groups.A £30 million London mansion has gone on the market featuring a secret Batman-style Batcave underneath the property. It includes hidden rooms, a workshop, entertainment areas and even a vehicle lift.
Talker: What would your dream house include?Poll: A) Cinema B) Pool C) Secret bunkerRelatable: Everybody designs fantasy houses in their head.Wit: Normal people build extensions. This bloke built Gotham.Ariana Grande reportedly stayed in a luxury penthouse on London's famous Billionaires' Row while filming Wicked. The property features private terraces, city views and a six-car underground garage.
Talker: Which celebrity house would you spend a week in?Poll: A) Ariana's B) Beckham's C) Someone else'sRelatable: Everyone wonders how celebrities actually live.Wit: Six-car garages only work if you remember where you've parked.Margate is being highlighted as one of Britain's trendiest seaside destinations thanks to its beach, vintage shops, art scene and famous Shell Grotto. Tourism experts say younger visitors are helping transform the town.
Talker: Best British seaside resort?Poll: A) Margate B) Scarborough C) BlackpoolRelatable: Everyone has memories of fish and chips by the sea.Wit: British seaside holidays are basically weather gambling.Students from a specialist Somerset college have received Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards at Buckingham Palace after completing volunteering projects, expeditions and skills challenges.
Talker: What's the achievement you're most proud of?Poll: A) Education B) Sport C) Personal goalRelatable: Everyone remembers accomplishing something they thought was impossible.Wit: That's one school trip that ended pretty well.A former Royal Marine has been invited to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party in recognition of his work supporting veterans and the Armed Forces community.
Talker: Who deserves more recognition?Poll: A) Veterans B) Carers C) VolunteersRelatable: Community heroes often work quietly in the background.Wit: Some invitations are definitely worth framing.A children's bookshop has received funding from Penguin to help inspire reluctant readers through storytelling sessions, book discovery events and reading projects for local children.
Talker: Which book got you hooked on reading?Poll: A) Harry Potter B) Roald Dahl C) Something elseRelatable: Most readers remember the book that changed everything.Wit: One good book can beat hours of doomscrolling.A Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant from Miami is opening a special London pop-up, bringing award-winning tacos and modern Mexican dishes to the capital for a limited run.
Talker: Favourite international cuisine?Poll: A) Mexican B) Italian C) IndianRelatable: Food is now one of Britain's favourite hobbies.Wit: London now launches restaurants faster than streaming services launch dramas.A successful Winchester coffee shop is expanding into London after building a loyal local following. The owners say social media helped fuel demand beyond Hampshire.
Talker: Could your favourite local café go national?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on the coffeeRelatable: People become fiercely loyal to coffee shops.Wit: Cafés now expand quicker than football clubs.Plans have been submitted to transform part of a former Debenhams store into an Ivy restaurant as towns continue looking for ways to reinvent struggling high streets.
Talker: What should replace empty department stores?Poll: A) Restaurants B) Entertainment C) HousingRelatable: Almost every town has a giant empty shop now.Wit: The British high street is having a full midlife makeover.King Charles has suffered a Royal Ascot disappointment after one of his highly regarded horses was withdrawn ahead of the famous racing festival.
Talker: Do you watch Royal Ascot?Poll: A) Every year B) Sometimes C) Just for the hatsRelatable: Most people only notice horse racing during Ascot week.Wit: Even Kings have bad days at the races.What's Trending
Coronation Street fans are talking about major ITV schedule changes after ongoing disruption caused by live sport and ITV’s newer “soap power hour” format. Viewers have complained about episodes moving around the schedule and becoming harder to keep track of.
Talker: Do TV schedules still matter now everything streams?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on the showRelatable: Everyone has lost track of when a soap is actually on.Wit: Watching Corrie now requires the planning skills of NASA.Cynthia Erivo is trending after opening up about the backlash she received following the Ariana Grande red carpet incident during the Wicked tour. Erivo said some online reactions felt rooted in racial stereotypes after she stepped in to protect Grande when a fan breached security.
Talker: Has social media become too harsh on celebrities?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) DependsRelatable: Online reactions can spiral incredibly quickly now.Wit: Social media can turn a good deed into a controversy in minutes.Portugal is making headlines after record-breaking temperatures swept across southern Europe, with parts of the country experiencing heat levels more typical of mid-summer than late May. Forecasters say the heat dome across Europe has been extraordinary.
Talker: Could you live somewhere that's 35°C+ regularly?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) For a holiday onlyRelatable: British people start melting at anything above 24°C.Wit: We spend all winter wanting sun, then immediately regret it.Luke Littler is trending again after another huge darts performance and continued talk about his growing influence on the sport. The teenage star remains one of the most talked-about athletes in Britain.
Talker: Is Luke Littler already a sporting icon?Poll: A) Yes B) Not yet C) PotentiallyRelatable: Everyone loves seeing young talent succeed.Wit: Most teenagers struggle to tidy bedrooms. Luke Littler fills arenas.The Isle of Man TT is dominating online discussion after sidecar sessions were suspended due to safety concerns, while rider Daniel Ingham also generated headlines during practice week. Fans continue debating risk versus tradition at one of the world's most dangerous sporting events.
Talker: Is the TT too dangerous nowadays?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) It's part of the sportRelatable: The TT fascinates even people who don't follow motorbikes.Wit: Calling the TT "extreme" feels like an understatement.Scott McTominay is back in the transfer headlines after reports linked him with interest from several European clubs following another strong season.
Talker: Should McTominay stay or move abroad?Poll: A) Stay B) Move C) Depends who callsRelatable: Football fans treat transfer rumours like daily entertainment.Wit: The transfer window is football's version of reality TV.India Women versus England Women is trending ahead of the latest international cricket meeting between the sides. Interest has continued growing as women’s cricket attracts larger crowds and TV audiences.
Talker: Is women’s sport finally getting the attention it deserves?Poll: A) Yes B) Not enough yet C) ImprovingRelatable: Women's sport has grown massively in recent years.Wit: The quality argument disappeared years ago — some people just haven't noticed.Ireland versus Qatar is attracting attention as football fans assess Ireland's progress and future tournament hopes. Supporters are hoping for signs of improvement ahead of bigger qualification campaigns.
Talker: Can Ireland qualify for a major tournament soon?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) MaybeRelatable: International football always runs on hope.Wit: Football fans are professionally optimistic.Modern Warfare 4 is trending after fresh reports and leaks sparked speculation about the next instalment of the hugely successful Call of Duty franchise. Gamers are already analysing every rumour.
Talker: Best video game franchise ever?Poll: A) Call of Duty B) FIFA/EA FC C) GTARelatable: Everyone remembers the game they spent far too many hours playing.Wit: Gamers can identify a leaked screenshot faster than detectives.Blue Origin is trending after another high-profile spaceflight update renewed debate around space tourism and billionaire-funded space travel.
Talker: Would you go to space if you could?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on the priceRelatable: Most people have imagined what Earth looks like from space.Wit: Some people struggle with Ryanair. Imagine a rocket.Madonna is trending after new speculation surrounding upcoming music projects and future performances. Fans continue hoping for another major world tour announcement.
Talker: Greatest pop star of all time?Poll: A) Madonna B) Michael Jackson C) Someone elseRelatable: Everybody has a favourite music era.Wit: Madonna has been reinventing herself longer than some listeners have been alive.Front Pages
The Daily Telegraph reports that prostate cancer screening will not be rolled out to all men despite growing calls from campaigners and some medical experts. Supporters argue wider screening could save lives through earlier diagnosis, while others warn it could lead to over-diagnosis and unnecessary treatment.
Talker: Should everyone be offered routine screening?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on ageRelatable: Most families have been touched by cancer in some way.Wit: The older you get, the more conversations seem to involve doctors and MOTs.The Times reports that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has outlined a more interventionist vision for Labour, pushing back against criticism from former Prime Minister Tony Blair and arguing government should play a bigger role in tackling modern economic challenges.
Talker: Does government need to intervene more in people's lives?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on the issueRelatable: Everyone feels the impact of rising costs differently.Wit: British politics is basically one long family argument with microphones.The Daily Mail also leads on the prostate cancer screening debate, warning that campaigners fear some lives could be lost if wider testing is not introduced. The issue has gained support from health charities and high-profile figures in recent years.
Talker: Are health checks something people put off for too long?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) SometimesRelatable: Most people promise they'll book an appointment next week.Wit: The hardest part of a health check is often making the phone call.The Daily Mirror reports that a founder of the Raise The Colours movement, which encourages people to display England flags, has been charged with murder. Legal proceedings are ongoing and the case will now proceed through the courts.
Talker: Should public figures be held to a higher standard?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on circumstancesRelatable: Stories involving well-known figures often attract huge attention.Wit: Sometimes the biggest headlines are the ones nobody sees coming.The Sun reports that FIFA is facing legal action in parts of the United States over claims that World Cup ticket prices have risen significantly due to supply restrictions and ticket category changes.
Talker: Would you pay hundreds of pounds for a World Cup ticket?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends who was playingRelatable: Sports fans will travel almost anywhere for a big event.Wit: World Cup tickets are starting to look like house deposits.The i Paper reports that Andy Burnham has accused Tony Blair of being out of touch with today's cost-of-living pressures, arguing that politicians need to focus on the realities facing working families.
Talker: Which issue affects people most right now?Poll: A) Cost of living B) NHS C) HousingRelatable: Everyone feels financial pressure in different ways.Wit: Political disagreements never really retire.The Daily Express reports concerns from Jewish organisations following incidents of antisemitic intimidation. Community leaders are calling for stronger action to protect religious and cultural freedoms across the UK.
Talker: Does society need to do more to tackle hate crime?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) More education neededRelatable: Most people want communities to feel safe and respected.Wit: Respect shouldn't be a controversial concept.The Daily Star reports that England's planned World Cup base has been affected by a public health alert linked to an Ebola outbreak elsewhere in the region. Officials stress there is no direct threat to the squad and monitoring measures are in place.
Talker: Would health alerts affect your travel plans?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on adviceRelatable: Most people check travel advice before heading abroad.Wit: Football teams now need doctors, analysts and apparently epidemiologists.The Financial Times reports that former BP chief executive Albert Manifold is challenging allegations surrounding his departure from the company and has strongly denied claims made about his conduct.
Talker: Should senior executives face more scrutiny?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on the situationRelatable: Leadership decisions often affect thousands of employees.Wit: Boardroom drama can be every bit as messy as reality television.The Guardian reports that a major review has found youth worklessness is costing Britain more than £125 billion a year, with ministers now considering fresh welfare and employment reforms.
Talker: What's the biggest challenge facing young people today?Poll: A) Jobs B) Housing C) Education costsRelatable: Every generation worries about opportunities for the next one.Wit: Nobody grows up dreaming of filling in benefit forms.Metro reports that ten members of a cocaine trafficking gang have been jailed for a combined total of 52 years following a major police investigation spanning several regions.
Talker: Are sentences for organised crime tough enough?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on the crimeRelatable: Most communities want serious criminals removed from the streets.Wit: Crime may not pay, but some people keep applying for the job.Entertainment News
Joan Cusack has made her first red carpet appearance in 11 years, joining Tom Hanks and Tim Allen at the London premiere of Toy Story 5. The actress, who voices Jessie, has largely stayed out of the Hollywood spotlight in recent years and now lives in Chicago.
Talker: Which actor or actress do you wish we'd see more of?Poll: A) Joan Cusack B) Rick Moranis C) Someone elseRelatable: Some stars simply disappear from the spotlight and people genuinely miss them.Wit: Eleven years away from a red carpet sounds quite peaceful, actually.Tom Hanks and Tim Allen reunited at the Toy Story 5 premiere, bringing Woody and Buzz back together ahead of the film's release next month. Fans packed the event as one of cinema's most loved friendships returned.
Talker: Best animated film franchise ever?Poll: A) Toy Story B) Shrek C) Ice AgeRelatable: Most people grew up with at least one Toy Story film.Wit: Some friendships last a lifetime. Others last five movies.Jeremy Clarkson's partner Lisa Hogan has been discussing the new series of Clarkson's Farm, including ongoing planning battles and life at Diddly Squat. The show remains one of Britain's most talked-about programmes despite starting as a farming documentary.
Talker: Is Clarkson's Farm one of the best things on TV?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Never watched itRelatable: It somehow made farming prime-time entertainment.Wit: Farming appears to be 10% tractors and 90% paperwork.Susan Boyle is preparing a major comeback after recovering from the stroke she suffered in 2023. Fans have praised her determination after she recently teased new projects and a fresh new look.
Talker: Which Britain's Got Talent act had the biggest impact?Poll: A) Susan Boyle B) Diversity C) Paul PottsRelatable: Most people still remember that first audition.Wit: One song completely changed her life.Madonna is making headlines after opening up about her relationship with John F Kennedy Jr during a recent interview. More than 40 years into her career, she continues to dominate entertainment conversations.
Talker: Has Madonna stayed relevant longer than any other pop star?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) MaybeRelatable: Few artists remain headline news for four decades.Wit: Madonna has reinvented herself more times than most people redecorate.Sir Paul McCartney has appeared on Amelia Dimoldenberg's hugely popular Chicken Shop Date series, chatting about music, life and vegetarianism. Fans loved seeing one of the Beatles in such a relaxed and unexpected setting.
Talker: Which Beatle would you most like to spend an hour with?Poll: A) Paul B) John C) George/RingoRelatable: The Beatles still spark debates across generations.Wit: From Shea Stadium to chicken shops.Princess Andre and Christine McGuinness were among the stars attending the British LGBT Awards, celebrating achievements and contributions across the LGBT community. The event attracted television personalities, influencers and campaigners from across the UK.
Talker: Which celebrity children have built successful careers in their own right?Poll: A) Princess Andre B) Brooklyn Beckham C) OthersRelatable: Growing up famous must be a very strange experience.Wit: Imagine having your teenage years covered by the tabloids.Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova is reportedly being linked with a future appearance on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! following her departure from the BBC dance show.
Talker: Which reality show would you least like to do?Poll: A) Jungle B) Strictly C) Big BrotherRelatable: Most people think they're brave until spiders arrive.Wit: Dancing in sequins is one thing. Eating bugs is another.Coronation Street favourite Tracy Shaw has shared a positive update after completing her first chemotherapy treatment. The actress, remembered by many as Maxine Peacock, received a huge wave of support from fans.
Talker: Which soap character do you still remember years later?Poll: A) Maxine Peacock B) Bet Lynch C) Someone elseRelatable: Soap stars often feel like part of the family.Wit: Some Corrie characters never really leave Weatherfield.The West End production of Beetlejuice is receiving rave reviews, with critics praising its humour, visual effects and Tim Burton-inspired chaos. It's quickly becoming one of London's hottest theatre tickets.
Talker: What's the best musical you've ever seen?Poll: A) Lion King B) Wicked C) Something elseRelatable: Live theatre is enjoying a huge resurgence.Wit: Nothing says family entertainment quite like Beetlejuice.A man who plotted an attack targeting Taylor Swift's Vienna concerts has been sentenced to 15 years in prison in Austria. The case led to the cancellation of three Eras Tour shows and sparked wider discussions around event security. ([People.com][3])
Talker: Have major concerts become harder to secure safely?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Don't knowRelatable: Big events now involve enormous security operations.Wit: Buying the ticket is often easier than getting through security.Love Island returns soon, with contestants Lorenzo and Lola already generating headlines before the series has even properly started. Producers are hoping for another huge summer of villa drama.
Talker: Is Love Island still must-watch television?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Never watched itRelatable: Every summer seems to arrive with a new villa romance.Wit: Somewhere a producer is already planning the first dramatic recoupling.Comedian Sam Campbell is earning rave reviews for his new series Make That Movie, with critics calling it one of the funniest shows of the year so far. The Taskmaster winner continues to build a strong UK fanbase.
Talker: Who is Britain's funniest comedian right now?Poll: A) Sam Campbell B) Peter Kay C) Someone elseRelatable: Comedy is one thing everyone argues about.Wit: If people laugh at different bits, you've probably got a good comedian.Fans are continuing to celebrate the success of Chicken Shop Date after Sir Paul McCartney's appearance pushed clips from the episode viral across social media, introducing the music legend to a whole new generation of viewers.
Talker: Which celebrity surprised you by appearing somewhere unexpected?Poll: A) Paul McCartney B) David Beckham C) Someone elseRelatable: Social media keeps creating bizarre celebrity pairings.Wit: One minute you're scrolling videos, the next you're watching a Beatle eat nuggets.Music News
Sir Paul McCartney is making headlines with the release of his new album, *The Boys of Dungeon Lane*, inspired by his childhood in Liverpool. Early reviews suggest the record is packed with memories of growing up in post-war Liverpool and the early days of The Beatles.
Talker: Which artist would you most like to hear one more new album from?Poll: A) Paul McCartney B) Elton John C) Someone elseRelatable: Everyone has an artist that reminds them of growing up.Wit: Most people write memoirs at 84. Paul writes albums.Sir Paul McCartney has also reflected on The Beatles' legacy, describing them as "the greatest band ever" while discussing the group's lasting influence on music.
Talker: Greatest band of all time?Poll: A) The Beatles B) Queen C) Rolling StonesRelatable: Music debates never get settled.Wit: Mention this in a pub and you'll still start an argument.The Beatles are back in the headlines after plans were announced to open the famous Apple Corps headquarters at 3 Savile Row to the public in 2027. The site was home to the band's legendary rooftop concert.
Talker: Which music landmark would you most like to visit?Poll: A) Abbey Road B) Graceland C) Savile RowRelatable: Music fans love visiting places where history happened.Wit: Expect a lot of rooftop selfies.Boy George says he would love to write a future Eurovision entry for the UK despite criticism of this year's contest and the UK's continued struggles to win.
Talker: Who should represent the UK at Eurovision?Poll: A) Pop star B) Unknown act C) Rock bandRelatable: Everyone suddenly becomes a Eurovision expert in May.Wit: Eurovision is the only contest where a man dressed as a toaster can win.Gracie Abrams has announced a major UK and European arena tour, including dates in Manchester, Glasgow and London. Demand has been so high that additional dates have already been added.
Talker: Which artist are you desperate to see live?Poll: A) Gracie Abrams B) Taylor Swift C) Someone elseRelatable: Concert tickets now require military-level planning.Wit: Buying tickets is harder than getting a mortgage.Shania Twain has announced an intimate East London show ahead of the release of her new album *Little Miss Twain*. It's a rare opportunity to see one of music's biggest names in a small venue.
Talker: What's the smallest venue you've seen a big star perform in?Poll: A) Pub B) Club C) TheatreRelatable: Small gigs often become the best memories.Wit: Wembley one week, local boozer the next.Paul Heaton has announced a new album called Jenius alongside a major UK tour. The former Housemartins and Beautiful South star continues to enjoy huge success as a solo artist.
Talker: Best Paul Heaton song?Poll: A) Happy Hour B) Rotterdam C) Perfect 10Relatable: Most people know at least one Paul Heaton song.Wit: He keeps releasing hits while everyone else releases greatest hits.Industry figures show Ed Sheeran was the UK's most-played artist of 2025, finishing ahead of Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa across radio, TV and public performance data.
Talker: Is Ed Sheeran Britain's biggest music star?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) MaybeRelatable: You can't go far without hearing an Ed Sheeran song.Wit: Somewhere Ed is probably writing another one right now.Sting is making headlines after suggesting that the decline of traditional manual industries may be linked to some modern issues around masculinity. He made the comments while promoting his musical *The Last Ship*.
Talker: Do you agree with Sting's theory?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Not sureRelatable: Everyone has opinions about how society has changed.Wit: Sting has gone from singing about Roxanne to solving society.Kylie Minogue's *Tension Tour Live* concert film has arrived on Netflix, giving fans the chance to relive one of the biggest tours of recent years.
Talker: Best live performer you've ever seen?Poll: A) Kylie B) Madonna C) Someone elseRelatable: Some concerts stay with you forever.Wit: Cheaper than a tour ticket and nobody spills beer on you.Little Mix fans are celebrating after Perrie Edwards confirmed discussions about a future reunion involving Perrie, Leigh-Anne and Jade.
Talker: Should bands reunite or leave the memories alone?Poll: A) Reunite B) Leave it C) Depends who it isRelatable: Nostalgia sells.Wit: Music reunions are basically the entertainment industry's favourite hobby.Iron Maiden continue celebrating their 50th anniversary with a huge European tour, a new documentary and a new book, proving the metal legends are still going strong.
Talker: Which band has aged the best?Poll: A) Iron Maiden B) Rolling Stones C) U2Relatable: Some bands just refuse to slow down.Wit: Iron Maiden have been touring longer than some fans have been alive.Britney Spears is back in the headlines after a previously unseen photograph from 1999 was released as part of a new BBC documentary looking back at her rise to global fame.
Talker: Which artist had the biggest impact on pop music?Poll: A) Britney B) Madonna C) Michael JacksonRelatable: Everyone remembers a defining pop star from their generation.Wit: Before Instagram, stars had to become famous the hard way.Telly News
Coronation Street viewers are preparing for another major storyline twist as Jodie Ramsey looks set to be exposed as the mysterious online troll "Truthteller". Fans have been speculating for weeks about how the storyline will unfold.
Talker: What's the best soap villain of all time?Poll: A) Corrie B) EastEnders C) EmmerdaleRelatable: Soap fans love trying to work out the twists before they happen.Wit: Half the fun is shouting "I knew it!" at the TV.Married At First Sight UK producers have rejected claims from former staff that contestants were pressured into intimacy or sharing beds. The programme says participant welfare remains a priority.
Talker: Are reality shows becoming too intrusive?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) DependsRelatable: Reality TV always sparks strong opinions.Wit: Sometimes the drama behind the scenes is bigger than the show.Jeremy Clarkson has hinted he could finally propose to partner Lisa Hogan as the couple approach their tenth anniversary. The tease reportedly features in the latest series of Clarkson's Farm.
Talker: Should couples get married after ten years together?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) DependsRelatable: Everyone knows a couple who have been together forever.Wit: Even Clarkson can't seem to make a decision quickly.Balamory has been commissioned for two further series following the success of its recent revival. The much-loved children's programme is continuing to win over a new generation of viewers.
Talker: What was your favourite kids' TV show growing up?Poll: A) Balamory B) Blue Peter C) OtherRelatable: Childhood TV memories never really leave us.Wit: Somewhere, Archie the Inventor is feeling very pleased.Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova is reportedly in talks to join this year's I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! after leaving the BBC dance show.
Talker: Which show would you rather do?Poll: A) Strictly B) I'm A Celeb C) NeitherRelatable: Most people like watching celebrities suffer a little.Wit: Ballroom dancing and eating bugs require very different skills.Zoe Ball has been moved to tears while filming a family history programme with her father Johnny Ball. The presenter discovered more about her family's roots during the emotional episode.
Talker: Have you ever researched your family tree?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Meaning toRelatable: Many people are curious about where they came from.Wit: Every family tree has a few surprising branches.Kelly Clarkson became emotional while saying goodbye to viewers during the final episode of her daytime talk show after seven successful seasons.
Talker: Which daytime TV host would you miss most?Poll: A) Clarkson B) Loose Women C) This MorningRelatable: TV presenters can become part of daily life.Wit: Daytime TV fans don't like change.Apple TV+'s new sci-fi drama Star City has launched to strong reviews. The series explores an alternative version of the space race and comes from Battlestar Galactica creator Ronald D. Moore.
Talker: What's the best TV sci-fi series ever?Poll: A) Doctor Who B) Star Trek C) OtherRelatable: Science fiction fans are fiercely loyal.Wit: The arguments may continue into another galaxy.A mural celebrating BBC comedy Smoggie Queens has been unveiled in Middlesbrough. The series has become a surprise hit and is building a growing national audience.
Talker: Which TV comedy deserves more attention?Poll: A) Smoggie Queens B) Ghosts C) OtherRelatable: Everyone enjoys discovering a hidden gem.Wit: Getting your face painted on a wall is a decent career milestone.This Morning descended into laughter after soap expert Sharon Marshall accidentally made an EastEnders storyline sound like an incest plot. While discussing Sharon Watts' family, she said "her brother is sleeping with her sister", before quickly clarifying the characters involved are not biologically related. Hosts Sian Welby and Craig Doyle were left stunned before bursting out laughing.
Talker: Have you ever completely worded something the wrong way?Poll: A) All the time B) Occasionally C) NeverRelatable: Everyone has had a sentence come out wrong.Wit: Live television doesn't come with an undo button.Lifestyle News
A simple peri-peri chicken and halloumi traybake is going viral after home cooks praised it for being packed with flavour while requiring minimal preparation. The recipe combines chicken, vegetables and halloumi in one tray, making it ideal for busy midweek dinners.
Talker: What's your go-to lazy dinner?Poll: A) Traybake B) Air Fryer C) TakeawayRelatable: We all want meals that taste great without creating washing up.Wit: The fewer pans involved, the better.Hay fever sufferers are being urged not to let pollen ruin their fitness plans. Experts recommend exercising after rain, checking pollen forecasts and wearing wraparound sunglasses to reduce symptoms.
Talker: Has hay fever been bad for you this year?Poll: A) Terrible B) Manageable C) FineRelatable: Millions are sneezing their way through spring.Wit: Some people are getting more exercise chasing tissues than running.Former staff on Married At First Sight UK have told the BBC there was an unhealthy focus on contestants' sex lives behind the scenes. Producers have responded by defending participant welfare processes.
Talker: Are reality shows becoming too intrusive?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends on the showRelatable: Reality TV continues to divide opinion.Wit: Apparently "did they fancy each other?" wasn't enough anymore.Gardeners are being encouraged to stop throwing away broccoli stems. Food experts say the stems are packed with nutrients and can be roasted, grated into salads or blended into soups.
Talker: What's the best food-saving tip you've learned?Poll: A) Freeze it B) Reuse it C) Compost itRelatable: Food waste is something many households are trying to reduce.Wit: The broccoli stem is finally getting its moment in the spotlight.Financial experts are warning that having children later in life could mean working longer before retirement. Rising housing costs and delayed family planning are creating new financial challenges for many parents.
Talker: Are people having children later than ever?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Not sureRelatable: Family finances affect almost everyone.Wit: Retirement planning used to involve cruises, not school uniforms.Tesco has unveiled 17 new summer meal deal products, including its first hot breakfast and hot lunch options. The supermarket says demand for protein-rich lunches is driving the changes.
Talker: What's your favourite meal deal combination?Poll: A) Sandwich B) Pasta C) WrapRelatable: Britain's relationship with meal deals is serious business.Wit: Some people spend longer choosing a meal deal than buying a car.An 18-year-old from Scotland has turned buying and reselling clothes online into a six-figure business. Leon Scott started trading through Vinted and eBay while still at school and now operates from a large warehouse unit.
Talker: Could you make a living from your hobby?Poll: A) Yes B) Maybe C) No chanceRelatable: Many people dream of turning a side hustle into a full-time job.Wit: Parents everywhere are wondering if their teenager is secretly an entrepreneur.Sleep experts have shared tips for staying cool during the heatwave, including closing curtains during the day, using cotton bedding and taking a warm shower before bed.
Talker: How did you sleep during the heat?Poll: A) Great B) Poorly C) What sleep?Relatable: The recent hot weather has left many people tossing and turning.Wit: British bedrooms weren't designed with tropical nights in mind.A 150-year-old brewery is closing five of its stores as changing shopping habits and rising costs continue to affect the retail sector. Adnams says the decision follows a review of its retail estate.
Talker: Are high streets changing too quickly?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends where you liveRelatable: Most towns have seen familiar businesses disappear.Wit: The high street has had more comebacks than some pop stars.A woman from Los Angeles has gone viral after spending thousands transforming a vintage motorhome into a traditional English cottage inspired by visits to the Cotswolds. The project has attracted huge attention online.
Talker: Would you live in a cottage-style campervan?Poll: A) Absolutely B) Maybe C) No thanksRelatable: Home makeover stories always capture people's imagination.Wit: It's probably the most British-looking motorhome in America.Sports News
Luke Littler has revealed he nearly quit the Premier League Darts season after struggling with boos and hostile crowd reactions during parts of the campaign. The 19-year-old admitted there were moments where he told his family he "didn't want to do it anymore" before fighting back to win the title.
Talker: Do sports fans sometimes go too far?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) DependsRelatable: Most people know what it's like to lose confidence.Wit: Not many teenagers deal with pressure in front of 16,000 people.Luke Littler broke down in tears after defeating Luke Humphries 11-10 in a dramatic Premier League Darts final at London's O2 Arena. The victory secured his second Premier League crown and completed another remarkable chapter in his rapid rise through the sport.
Talker: Is Luke Littler already Britain's biggest sports star?Poll: A) Yes B) Not yet C) Too earlyRelatable: Big achievements often bring big emotions.Wit: Some people celebrate with champagne. Luke needed tissues.Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson has dismissed the controversial Enhanced Games as "nonsense" and says clean athletes deserve greater recognition. The event would allow competitors to use performance-enhancing drugs under medical supervision.
Talker: Should sport ever allow performance-enhancing drugs?Poll: A) Never B) Maybe C) UnsureRelatable: Fair competition matters in every sport.Wit: Most people struggle enough with a morning coffee.Keely Hodgkinson has also hinted she could target the women's 800m world record at the London Diamond League later this summer. The record has stood since 1983 and is one of the longest-standing marks in athletics.
Talker: Can Keely break the record?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) MaybeRelatable: Everyone loves seeing history being challenged.Wit: The record is older than most people scrolling social media.England Women suffered a 38-run defeat to India in the opening T20 international at Chelmsford. India posted 188 before restricting England to 150, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
Talker: Can England turn the series around?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Too close to callRelatable: Every team has an off day.Wit: At least it's only game one.Katie Boulter's French Open campaign came to an end after defeat to Anastasia Potapova, meaning British interest in the singles draw has taken another hit at Roland Garros.
Talker: Who is Britain's best hope for Wimbledon?Poll: A) Raducanu B) Draper C) Someone elseRelatable: Wimbledon season is almost here.Wit: Time to start practising saying "strawberries and cream."FIFA is facing mounting pressure in the United States after complaints over World Cup ticket pricing and availability. Reports suggest legal action is being explored following concerns about supply restrictions and category changes.
Talker: Would you pay huge money for a World Cup ticket?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Depends who's playingRelatable: Ticket prices are a talking point in every sport.Wit: Some seats now seem to cost more than the holiday.Scott McTominay continues to be linked with major European clubs after another impressive season. The Scotland midfielder remains one of the most talked-about names in the transfer market.
Talker: Should McTominay stay where he is?Poll: A) Stay B) Move C) Not botheredRelatable: Every summer brings transfer rumours.Wit: Football's favourite hobby is moving players who haven't moved.Luke Humphries has praised Luke Littler's resilience after their dramatic Premier League final, saying the teenager has handled enormous pressure despite constant scrutiny and criticism.
Talker: Is this the best rivalry in sport right now?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) One of themRelatable: Great rivalries make sport more exciting.Wit: Darts has found its version of Ali versus Frazier.The Premier League Darts final between Luke Littler and Luke Humphries is already being described as one of the greatest finals in the competition's history after both players produced averages above 100 in a thrilling last-leg decider.
Talker: Is darts bigger than ever right now?Poll: A) Yes B) No C) Definitely growingRelatable: The sport keeps attracting new fans.Wit: Plenty of people now know more about darts than DIY.