The marketing materials for Anthony Hopkins latest feature film, a Holocaust biopic titled “One Life,” are set to be amended after controversy ensued over the lack of reference to Jews.
“One Life” tells the story of Nicholas Winton (played by Hopkins), better known as the British Oscar Schindler. Winton helped save the lives of over 600 children – the majority of them Jewish – from the Nazis during World War II.
But there has been disquiet over marketing for the movie after it was claimed Jews had been erased from the synopsis.
The furore started after British media retailer HMV tweeted about the film and referred to the children saved by Winton as “Central European” rather than Jewish. A number of independent cinemas also used the term “Central European” instead of “Jewish” while describing the film on their websites.
See-Saw Films, who produced “One Life,” and Warner Bros. Pictures., who are distributing it in the U.
“One Life” tells the story of Nicholas Winton (played by Hopkins), better known as the British Oscar Schindler. Winton helped save the lives of over 600 children – the majority of them Jewish – from the Nazis during World War II.
But there has been disquiet over marketing for the movie after it was claimed Jews had been erased from the synopsis.
The furore started after British media retailer HMV tweeted about the film and referred to the children saved by Winton as “Central European” rather than Jewish. A number of independent cinemas also used the term “Central European” instead of “Jewish” while describing the film on their websites.
See-Saw Films, who produced “One Life,” and Warner Bros. Pictures., who are distributing it in the U.
- 1/4/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Anthony Hopkins recently played an elderly Jewish man who fled persecution as a child in James Gray’s Armageddon Time. He continues in this vein somewhat with One Life, this time playing British Jew Nicholas Winton, an actual historical figure, who in his youth helped child refugees flee Czechoslovakia during World War II. In some ways, it’s one of Hopkins’ best performances from the last few years, beautifully underplayed, eschewing mannerisms or silly accents. It’s just a shame the film itself, directed by James Hawes, with a script by Lucinda Coxon and Nick Drake, is a bit worthy and diagrammatic. Still, that won’t stop it from traveling far to festivals and probably finding distribution as fare appealing to older viewers, especially in the U.K., where many seniors may remember the moment on TV show That’s Life! in 1988 that made Winton famous.
The film’s title is inspired by a Hebrew proverb,...
The film’s title is inspired by a Hebrew proverb,...
- 9/11/2023
- by Leslie Felperin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Veteran BBC presenter Esther Rantzen fears her lung cancer may have been caused by exposure to asbestos in the studios where she worked for decades.
The Times of London reports that the 82-year-old former British host of That’s Life! – one of the BBC’s most popular shows that ran from 1973 to 1994 – remembers staff regularly walking past piles of white dust at Lime Grove Studios, and even termed one corridor “asbestos alley.”
Rantzen was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer earlier this year, and her disease is not the type linked to smoking. She told The Times she couldn’t be sure what caused her illness but said: “It is vital that asbestos is removed from buildings everywhere as soon as possible.
“I worked in the BBC’s Lime Grove studios for at least 35 happy years from 1965. Some time in the late-Eighties or early-Nineties, workmen wearing white spacesuits arrived to take...
The Times of London reports that the 82-year-old former British host of That’s Life! – one of the BBC’s most popular shows that ran from 1973 to 1994 – remembers staff regularly walking past piles of white dust at Lime Grove Studios, and even termed one corridor “asbestos alley.”
Rantzen was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer earlier this year, and her disease is not the type linked to smoking. She told The Times she couldn’t be sure what caused her illness but said: “It is vital that asbestos is removed from buildings everywhere as soon as possible.
“I worked in the BBC’s Lime Grove studios for at least 35 happy years from 1965. Some time in the late-Eighties or early-Nineties, workmen wearing white spacesuits arrived to take...
- 7/30/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Kiefer Sutherland has paid tribute to his 24 co-star Annie Wersching, who has died from cancer, aged 45.
Wersching played Renee Walker in the Fox drama’s seventh and eight seasons.
“The world lost a light today,” Sutherland wrote on Twitter after the news was announced on Sunday (29 January).
“Wersching was one of the greatest actors I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, and my friend,” he continued.
“My heart breaks for her young family. May she be remembered for the beautiful person that she was.”
Wersching had an impressive list of TV credits, with roles in Bosch, The Vampire Diaries, Marvel’s Runaways and Timeless.
Abigail Spencer, with whom she starred in Timeless, wrote: “We love you #AnnieWersching. You will be deeply missed.”
Timeless creator Eric Kripke said he was looking to cast Wersching in his current series, Prime Video’s The Boys. He called the actor his “secret weapon...
Wersching played Renee Walker in the Fox drama’s seventh and eight seasons.
“The world lost a light today,” Sutherland wrote on Twitter after the news was announced on Sunday (29 January).
“Wersching was one of the greatest actors I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, and my friend,” he continued.
“My heart breaks for her young family. May she be remembered for the beautiful person that she was.”
Wersching had an impressive list of TV credits, with roles in Bosch, The Vampire Diaries, Marvel’s Runaways and Timeless.
Abigail Spencer, with whom she starred in Timeless, wrote: “We love you #AnnieWersching. You will be deeply missed.”
Timeless creator Eric Kripke said he was looking to cast Wersching in his current series, Prime Video’s The Boys. He called the actor his “secret weapon...
- 1/30/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
George Takei has shared a message of support with his former I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! campmate Esther Rantzen following her lung cancer diagnosis.
On Sunday (29 January), the broadcaster and Childline founder publicly shared the news of her diagnosis, announcing that she no longer wanted to keep it a secret after learning that the cancer had spread.
Star Trek actor Takei appeared on Good Morning Britain on Monday (30 January), where he shared a message of support for the 82-year-old, with whom he appeared on ITV’s reality show in 2008.
“Esther and I were the senior members of that team in the jungle and we were the early risers,” he said. “We were the earliest in the morning and we got the fire started, the campfire, and boiled the hot water and began the day chatting over white tea [and] hot water in the jungle.
“I love her dearly.
On Sunday (29 January), the broadcaster and Childline founder publicly shared the news of her diagnosis, announcing that she no longer wanted to keep it a secret after learning that the cancer had spread.
Star Trek actor Takei appeared on Good Morning Britain on Monday (30 January), where he shared a message of support for the 82-year-old, with whom he appeared on ITV’s reality show in 2008.
“Esther and I were the senior members of that team in the jungle and we were the early risers,” he said. “We were the earliest in the morning and we got the fire started, the campfire, and boiled the hot water and began the day chatting over white tea [and] hot water in the jungle.
“I love her dearly.
- 1/30/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Richard Madeley has apologised for using the wrong pronouns for Sam Smith while presenting Good Morning Britain.
Madeley and his co-host Susanna Reid were discussing the singer’s new music video for their song “I’m Not Here To Make Friends”, when Madeley mistakenly used the incorrect pronouns.
Sam Smith goes by they/ them pronouns, however, Madeley used he/him pronouns to describe the singer during the discussion.
After Madeley’s mistake, Reid quietly informed him of Smith’s pronouns. Madeley then promptly apologised for his mistake.
Smith released the video for their new track “I’m Not Here To Make Friends” on Friday 27 January. The video opens with Smith wearing a large pink fluffy dress being carried into a countryside mansion.
Throughout the video they wear an array of different outfits while moving around different parts of the house, surrounded by dancers.
“I’m Not Here to Make Friends...
Madeley and his co-host Susanna Reid were discussing the singer’s new music video for their song “I’m Not Here To Make Friends”, when Madeley mistakenly used the incorrect pronouns.
Sam Smith goes by they/ them pronouns, however, Madeley used he/him pronouns to describe the singer during the discussion.
After Madeley’s mistake, Reid quietly informed him of Smith’s pronouns. Madeley then promptly apologised for his mistake.
Smith released the video for their new track “I’m Not Here To Make Friends” on Friday 27 January. The video opens with Smith wearing a large pink fluffy dress being carried into a countryside mansion.
Throughout the video they wear an array of different outfits while moving around different parts of the house, surrounded by dancers.
“I’m Not Here to Make Friends...
- 1/30/2023
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - TV
Richard Madeley has apologised for using the wrong pronouns for Sam Smith while presenting Good Morning Britain.
Madeley and his co-host Susanna Reid were discussing the singer’s new music video for their song “I’m Not Here To Make Friends”, when Madeley mistakenly used the incorrect pronouns.
Sam Smith goes by they/ them pronouns, however, Madeley used he/him pronouns to describe the singer during the discussion.
After Madeley’s mistake, Reid quietly informed him of Smith’s pronouns. Madeley then promptly apologised for his mistake.
Smith released the video for their new track “I’m Not Here To Make Friends” on Friday 27 January. The video opens with Smith wearing a large pink fluffy dress being carried into a countryside mansion.
Throughout the video they wear an array of different outfits while moving around different parts of the house, surrounded by dancers.
“I’m Not Here to Make Friends...
Madeley and his co-host Susanna Reid were discussing the singer’s new music video for their song “I’m Not Here To Make Friends”, when Madeley mistakenly used the incorrect pronouns.
Sam Smith goes by they/ them pronouns, however, Madeley used he/him pronouns to describe the singer during the discussion.
After Madeley’s mistake, Reid quietly informed him of Smith’s pronouns. Madeley then promptly apologised for his mistake.
Smith released the video for their new track “I’m Not Here To Make Friends” on Friday 27 January. The video opens with Smith wearing a large pink fluffy dress being carried into a countryside mansion.
Throughout the video they wear an array of different outfits while moving around different parts of the house, surrounded by dancers.
“I’m Not Here to Make Friends...
- 1/30/2023
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
Steve McQueen has shared his belief that his Oscar-winning film 12 Years a Slave would never have been made if Barack Obama wasn’t the president.
The filmmaker and artist directed the 2013 Best Picture winner, based on the true account of Solomon Northup, a Black man who was born free but was captured and sold into slavery in Louisiana in 1841. He was released 12 years later.
For its strong performance and its portrayal of the brutal experiences of enslaved people, the film and McQueen received widespread praise.
Lupita Nyong’o received a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for playing Patsey, an enslaved woman.
Despite 12 Years a Slave’s successes, McQueen believes that without President Obama being in office, and the specific cultural and social moment that it represented, the film would not have had received essential funding.
Speaking at the International Film Festival Rotterdam on Saturday (28 January), the Small Axe creator recalled...
The filmmaker and artist directed the 2013 Best Picture winner, based on the true account of Solomon Northup, a Black man who was born free but was captured and sold into slavery in Louisiana in 1841. He was released 12 years later.
For its strong performance and its portrayal of the brutal experiences of enslaved people, the film and McQueen received widespread praise.
Lupita Nyong’o received a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for playing Patsey, an enslaved woman.
Despite 12 Years a Slave’s successes, McQueen believes that without President Obama being in office, and the specific cultural and social moment that it represented, the film would not have had received essential funding.
Speaking at the International Film Festival Rotterdam on Saturday (28 January), the Small Axe creator recalled...
- 1/29/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - Film
Helena Bonham Carter has said she thinks Netflix should have ended The Crown before the latest season.
The actor made the claim despite starring in the show just two years ago.
Bonham Carter joined the cast for its third season, succeeding Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret.
Her time on the show came to an end when season four was released in November 2020, following which she was replaced by Lesley Manville.
However, the Harry Potter actor, who said she “should be careful” with how she words her opinion, believes the show should have ended with season four.
“I don’t think they should carry on, actually,” she told The Guardian.
“I’m in it and I loved my episodes, but it’s very different now.”
She continued: “When The Crown started, it was a historic drama, and now it’s crashed into the present. But that’s up to them.”
Bonham...
The actor made the claim despite starring in the show just two years ago.
Bonham Carter joined the cast for its third season, succeeding Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret.
Her time on the show came to an end when season four was released in November 2020, following which she was replaced by Lesley Manville.
However, the Harry Potter actor, who said she “should be careful” with how she words her opinion, believes the show should have ended with season four.
“I don’t think they should carry on, actually,” she told The Guardian.
“I’m in it and I loved my episodes, but it’s very different now.”
She continued: “When The Crown started, it was a historic drama, and now it’s crashed into the present. But that’s up to them.”
Bonham...
- 1/29/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Eddie Murphy has spoken out on his enthusiasm for fifth Shrek film and a Donkey spin-off adventure, claiming that his character is funnier than Puss in Boots.
The actor and comedian voiced the loveable animated creature in all four of the Shrek films and is considered one of the franchise’s best characters.
While promoting You People, his new Netflix movie, Murphy shared his thoughts on the possibility of continuing the story of the grumpy ogre and his family and friends.
“I’d absolutely be open,” he confirmed. “If they ever came with another Shrek, I’d do it in two seconds. I love Donkey.”
Murphy then added his belief that his goofy equine persona is funnier than Puss in Boots.
“They did Puss in Boots movies, they should have [done] a Donkey movie. Donkey is funnier than Puss in Boots,” he told Canadian news site Etalk.
“I mean I love Puss in Boots,...
The actor and comedian voiced the loveable animated creature in all four of the Shrek films and is considered one of the franchise’s best characters.
While promoting You People, his new Netflix movie, Murphy shared his thoughts on the possibility of continuing the story of the grumpy ogre and his family and friends.
“I’d absolutely be open,” he confirmed. “If they ever came with another Shrek, I’d do it in two seconds. I love Donkey.”
Murphy then added his belief that his goofy equine persona is funnier than Puss in Boots.
“They did Puss in Boots movies, they should have [done] a Donkey movie. Donkey is funnier than Puss in Boots,” he told Canadian news site Etalk.
“I mean I love Puss in Boots,...
- 1/29/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - Film
Dame Esther Rantzen has revealed that she has been diagnosed with lung cancer.
The broadcaster, who also founded the charities Childline and The Silver Line, shared the news on Sunday (29 January), confirming that she no longer wanted to keep her health status a secret.
“In the last few weeks, I have discovered that I am suffering from lung cancer which has now spread,” her statement began.
“At the moment I am undergoing various tests, to assess the best treatment.
4 warning signs of lung cancer the NHS doesn’t want you to ignore
“I have decided not to keep this secret any more because I find it difficult to skulk around various hospitals wearing an unconvincing disguise, and because I would rather you heard the facts from me.”
She continued with an acknowledgement of the people around her who have impacted her life so far.
“At the age of 82, this diagnosis...
The broadcaster, who also founded the charities Childline and The Silver Line, shared the news on Sunday (29 January), confirming that she no longer wanted to keep her health status a secret.
“In the last few weeks, I have discovered that I am suffering from lung cancer which has now spread,” her statement began.
“At the moment I am undergoing various tests, to assess the best treatment.
4 warning signs of lung cancer the NHS doesn’t want you to ignore
“I have decided not to keep this secret any more because I find it difficult to skulk around various hospitals wearing an unconvincing disguise, and because I would rather you heard the facts from me.”
She continued with an acknowledgement of the people around her who have impacted her life so far.
“At the age of 82, this diagnosis...
- 1/29/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Exclusive: Helena Bonham Carter has joined two-time Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins and Johnny Flynn in See-Saw Films feature drama One Life, we can reveal.
Deadline has also learned that James Hawes, who has worked on top-flight TV productions such as Black Mirror, The Alienist and Undercover, will make his film directorial debut on One Life. He most recently directed Gary Oldman in the first six episodes of Apple TV+ spy drama Slow Horses and is an executive producer on the hit series.
One Life tells the true story of how Nicholas Winton, a London stockbroker, helped spearhead a seemingly impossible plan that saved 669 children as the Nazis advanced on Czechoslovakia on the eve of World War Two. The title is paraphrased from the Jewish Talmud: “Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.”
Bonham Carter will play Winton’s mother Babi Winton,...
Deadline has also learned that James Hawes, who has worked on top-flight TV productions such as Black Mirror, The Alienist and Undercover, will make his film directorial debut on One Life. He most recently directed Gary Oldman in the first six episodes of Apple TV+ spy drama Slow Horses and is an executive producer on the hit series.
One Life tells the true story of how Nicholas Winton, a London stockbroker, helped spearhead a seemingly impossible plan that saved 669 children as the Nazis advanced on Czechoslovakia on the eve of World War Two. The title is paraphrased from the Jewish Talmud: “Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.”
Bonham Carter will play Winton’s mother Babi Winton,...
- 9/1/2022
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Natalie Dormer is a mom! The “Game of Thrones” star secretly welcomed her first child with partner David Oakes in January. Dormer shared the news on friend Esther Rantzen’s “That’s After Life” podcast. “It’s the perfect thing to do during a pandemic — get pregnant, have a baby,” the actress joked. “I feel like I’m probably being a...
- 4/28/2021
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
The actor is best known as the TV detective Strike, but there’s something about his deeply troubling lead film role in The Souvenir that suits him down to the ground
If you are asking Tom Burke to a party, for God’s sake don’t tell him it’ll be fun. “Hate the word! Ugh! The idea that there’s any sort of expectation. I like having really honest conversations with friends about how fucked everything is, but being able to laugh about it as well.”
Right. You gotta laugh, eh? A grin that’s 35% grimace. “No, I don’t. I’ve always hated that phrase. Everything has to arrive in its own time.” He lacquers almond butter on top of strawberry jam on gluten-free toast. “The only one I like is ‘That’s life!’ It’s quite vague. And perhaps because it reminds me of Esther Rantzen.”
Continue reading.
If you are asking Tom Burke to a party, for God’s sake don’t tell him it’ll be fun. “Hate the word! Ugh! The idea that there’s any sort of expectation. I like having really honest conversations with friends about how fucked everything is, but being able to laugh about it as well.”
Right. You gotta laugh, eh? A grin that’s 35% grimace. “No, I don’t. I’ve always hated that phrase. Everything has to arrive in its own time.” He lacquers almond butter on top of strawberry jam on gluten-free toast. “The only one I like is ‘That’s life!’ It’s quite vague. And perhaps because it reminds me of Esther Rantzen.”
Continue reading.
- 8/16/2019
- by Catherine Shoard
- The Guardian - Film News
Rob Leane Oct 30, 2017
Dave Gorman chats to us about his journey from Googlewhack Adventure to Modern Life Is Goodish...
Dave Gorman: Modern Life Is Goodish returns to Dave very soon, for its fifth series, with the eponymous comedian/writer/PowerPoint enthusiast diving back into the weird world around us, in search of life-affirming moments, barmy internet comments and more hefty chuckles.
See related Blade Runner 2049 review Blade Runner 2049: a spoiler-filled exploration Denis Villeneuve: Blade Runner 2049, practical effects, Arrival Ridley Scott interview: Blade Runner 2049, Alien and more
After watching the first episode of series 5 a bit early, we got the chance to chat with Mr Gorman over the phone. The call was delayed slightly, because Gorman was stuck at a garage trying to sort out his Mot. Once we were connected, that seemed like a good place to start our rather long chat...
Is everything alright with your car?...
Dave Gorman chats to us about his journey from Googlewhack Adventure to Modern Life Is Goodish...
Dave Gorman: Modern Life Is Goodish returns to Dave very soon, for its fifth series, with the eponymous comedian/writer/PowerPoint enthusiast diving back into the weird world around us, in search of life-affirming moments, barmy internet comments and more hefty chuckles.
See related Blade Runner 2049 review Blade Runner 2049: a spoiler-filled exploration Denis Villeneuve: Blade Runner 2049, practical effects, Arrival Ridley Scott interview: Blade Runner 2049, Alien and more
After watching the first episode of series 5 a bit early, we got the chance to chat with Mr Gorman over the phone. The call was delayed slightly, because Gorman was stuck at a garage trying to sort out his Mot. Once we were connected, that seemed like a good place to start our rather long chat...
Is everything alright with your car?...
- 10/29/2017
- Den of Geek
BBC One has cooked up another culinary competition show, this time hosted by James Martin.
The Box is receiving an order for 25 half-hour episodes, which will be spread over five weeks during the daytime.
In each episode, three home cooks must create a dish from an unseen box of ingredients chosen by a celebrity guest.
Winning this task gives the contestant a key advantage for the all-important second challenge, as Martin selects ingredients to go into three new Boxes.
The winner of the first task gets to choose which Box they cook from, and which ones their rivals must use.
Celebrity guests for this series include Mary Berry, Ainsley Harriot, Lisa Faulkner, Helen George, Margaret Mountford, Fay Ripley, Pru Leith, Craig Revel Horwood, Alex Jones, Esther Rantzen and Jessie Wallace.
"The Box is a great opportunity for the country's home cooks to show off their talents," Martin said. "I'm really...
The Box is receiving an order for 25 half-hour episodes, which will be spread over five weeks during the daytime.
In each episode, three home cooks must create a dish from an unseen box of ingredients chosen by a celebrity guest.
Winning this task gives the contestant a key advantage for the all-important second challenge, as Martin selects ingredients to go into three new Boxes.
The winner of the first task gets to choose which Box they cook from, and which ones their rivals must use.
Celebrity guests for this series include Mary Berry, Ainsley Harriot, Lisa Faulkner, Helen George, Margaret Mountford, Fay Ripley, Pru Leith, Craig Revel Horwood, Alex Jones, Esther Rantzen and Jessie Wallace.
"The Box is a great opportunity for the country's home cooks to show off their talents," Martin said. "I'm really...
- 5/11/2015
- Digital Spy
Myung Jung Kim/Pa Archive
Twice yearly Queen Elizabeth II, as monarch of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, publishes a list of the names of those she is going to bestow honours upon – including the people who are going to be knighted.
At New Year and on the Queen’s official birthday in June, the list of the new “sirs” and “dames” – as well as those receiving other appointments to the Order of the British Empire – are announced, with the most-recent group including actor John Hurt and ChildLine founder Esther Rantzen.
However, there is a prestigious list of names of those who have rejected the chance to be knighted – including some of the best-loved actors, musicians, artists, writers and inventors – for varying reasons, some to much acclaim, others to much criticism.
The majority of rejections have been made privately, although there are a select few examples whereby the person has...
Twice yearly Queen Elizabeth II, as monarch of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, publishes a list of the names of those she is going to bestow honours upon – including the people who are going to be knighted.
At New Year and on the Queen’s official birthday in June, the list of the new “sirs” and “dames” – as well as those receiving other appointments to the Order of the British Empire – are announced, with the most-recent group including actor John Hurt and ChildLine founder Esther Rantzen.
However, there is a prestigious list of names of those who have rejected the chance to be knighted – including some of the best-loved actors, musicians, artists, writers and inventors – for varying reasons, some to much acclaim, others to much criticism.
The majority of rejections have been made privately, although there are a select few examples whereby the person has...
- 2/26/2015
- by Chris Waugh
- Obsessed with Film
The annual New Year Honours list in the United Kingdom includes actresses Joan Collins and Kristin Scott Thomas becoming dames and actor John Hurt becoming a knight. Collins is known for her years on the American drama "Dynasty." Scott Thomas is a past Oscar nominee for "The English Patient." Hurt is a previous Oscar nominee for "The Elephant Man." A total of 1,164 people are featured as honorees this year, many of them not famous but recognized for charitable and community work. Other celebrities being honored include James Corden (OBE), Mary Quant (Damehood), Esther Rantzen (Damehood), Sheridan Smith (OBE), Meera Syal (Cbe), and Emily Watson (OBE). BBC -Break- Ileane Rudolph previews the fifth season of "Downton Abbey," which premieres on PBS this Sunday. She says that Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) might take a lover or at least take control this season. She has also "regained the regal air and acerbic wit inherited from her.
- 12/31/2014
- Gold Derby
The diva of Dynasty is now a dame. Joan Collins, who played scheming, shoulder pad-wearing Alexis Carrington in the hit 1980s TV show, was made the female equivalent of a knight in Queen Elizabeth II's annual New Year's honors list. The star of potboilers including The Stud and The Bitch was recognized for her services to charity. Collins, 81, is a longtime supporter of nonprofit groups helping children. London-born Collins said Tuesday it was "humbling to receive this level of recognition from my queen and country, and I am thrilled and truly grateful." Actress Kristin Scott Thomas, who is due...
- 12/31/2014
- by Associated Press
- PEOPLE.com
The diva of Dynasty is now a dame. Joan Collins, who played scheming, shoulder pad-wearing Alexis Carrington in the hit 1980s TV show, was made the female equivalent of a knight in Queen Elizabeth II's annual New Year's honors list. The star of potboilers including The Stud and The Bitch was recognized for her services to charity. Collins, 81, is a longtime supporter of nonprofit groups helping children. London-born Collins said Tuesday it was "humbling to receive this level of recognition from my queen and country, and I am thrilled and truly grateful." Actress Kristin Scott Thomas, who is due...
- 12/31/2014
- by Associated Press
- PEOPLE.com
BBC Daytime has announced its new line-up, featuring programmes from stars such as Len Goodman, Margaret Mountford and Shane Richie.
Unveiling a variety of shows from a number of different genres, BBC Daytime controller Damian Cavanagh praised the "rich mix of brand new programming".
Drama
New drama The Coroner - which follows a solicitor returning to her seaside hometown to work as the coroner after a messy marriage break-up - will join returning shows Father Brown and Wpc 56, which are both back for their third series.
Moving On, the acclaimed Jimmy McGovern drama, is back for a sixth series with new stars such as Hayley Mills, Lisa Riley and Peter Egan. Doctors also promises the arrival of a new nurse, goodbyes to familiar faces, a Halloween ghost story and a Christmas wedding.
Factual
Celebrity chef James Martin will head a campaign to bring communities together with his new show Meet The Street,...
Unveiling a variety of shows from a number of different genres, BBC Daytime controller Damian Cavanagh praised the "rich mix of brand new programming".
Drama
New drama The Coroner - which follows a solicitor returning to her seaside hometown to work as the coroner after a messy marriage break-up - will join returning shows Father Brown and Wpc 56, which are both back for their third series.
Moving On, the acclaimed Jimmy McGovern drama, is back for a sixth series with new stars such as Hayley Mills, Lisa Riley and Peter Egan. Doctors also promises the arrival of a new nurse, goodbyes to familiar faces, a Halloween ghost story and a Christmas wedding.
Factual
Celebrity chef James Martin will head a campaign to bring communities together with his new show Meet The Street,...
- 8/14/2014
- Digital Spy
Len Goodman is to front a new daytime travel series on BBC One.
Holiday of My Lifetime will see the Strictly Come Dancing judge guide celebrities on a trip down memory lane to relive their favourite childhood holiday.
Eamonn Holmes, Matt Allwright, Esther Rantzen, Ainsley Harriot, Dave Myers and Anita Manning will feature in the series, and will visit destinations like Cornwall, Blackpool, Devon and Scotland.
Speaking about the show, Goodman said: "It's been a real joy exploring the wonderful UK with personalities from across TV, radio and sport, reliving some of their humorous and heart-warming memories.
"This series will showcase the fun of a traditional summer holiday, harkening back to times when the simple things – like the smell of fish and chips or a bucket and spade – made all the difference to a child. What makes this experience even more special is that we get to share it with our viewers.
Holiday of My Lifetime will see the Strictly Come Dancing judge guide celebrities on a trip down memory lane to relive their favourite childhood holiday.
Eamonn Holmes, Matt Allwright, Esther Rantzen, Ainsley Harriot, Dave Myers and Anita Manning will feature in the series, and will visit destinations like Cornwall, Blackpool, Devon and Scotland.
Speaking about the show, Goodman said: "It's been a real joy exploring the wonderful UK with personalities from across TV, radio and sport, reliving some of their humorous and heart-warming memories.
"This series will showcase the fun of a traditional summer holiday, harkening back to times when the simple things – like the smell of fish and chips or a bucket and spade – made all the difference to a child. What makes this experience even more special is that we get to share it with our viewers.
- 7/28/2014
- Digital Spy
McFly, Lee Mack and Sir Terry Wogan are among the stars lined-up to take part in a Pointless special for Children in Need.
Esther Rantzen and Bobby Ball are also set to take part in the BBC One game show hosted by Alexander Armstrong.
McFly's Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones will work in one team, while Harry Judd and Dougie Poynter team-up in another, for the tea time show's celebrity special.
The boys are set to go up against pairs Wogan and Rantzen, as well as Mack and Ball.
Pointless adjudicator Richard Osman will also do his bit, wearing a tiger onesie throughout the programme, due to air tomorrow (November 15) at 5.15pm on BBC One.
The jackpot for the special edition is increased to £5,000, with each answer adding £500 to the Children in Need prize fund.
Later in the evening, McFly will also perform in the new supergroup McBusted during...
Esther Rantzen and Bobby Ball are also set to take part in the BBC One game show hosted by Alexander Armstrong.
McFly's Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones will work in one team, while Harry Judd and Dougie Poynter team-up in another, for the tea time show's celebrity special.
The boys are set to go up against pairs Wogan and Rantzen, as well as Mack and Ball.
Pointless adjudicator Richard Osman will also do his bit, wearing a tiger onesie throughout the programme, due to air tomorrow (November 15) at 5.15pm on BBC One.
The jackpot for the special edition is increased to £5,000, with each answer adding £500 to the Children in Need prize fund.
Later in the evening, McFly will also perform in the new supergroup McBusted during...
- 11/14/2013
- Digital Spy
Over £500,000 was raised for ChildLine last night (October 18) at the X Factor ChildLine Ball. The event was hosted by Caroline Flack and featured performances from Janet Devlin and Diva Fever, with introductions from Peter Dickson. ChildLine Ball 2012 from Dmi Productions on Vimeo.
Flack said: "It was a privilege to host this year's X Factor ChildLine Ball and it was really heart-warming to see such a wealth of support for this fantastic cause. "The money raised will go towards helping some of the UK's most vulnerable children, many of whom have nowhere else to turn, so I'm delighted to have been involved." Guests at the event included 'So Macho' singer Sinitta and ChildLine founder Esther Rantzen. "Even after 25 years, recent headlines prove there is just as much need (more)...
Flack said: "It was a privilege to host this year's X Factor ChildLine Ball and it was really heart-warming to see such a wealth of support for this fantastic cause. "The money raised will go towards helping some of the UK's most vulnerable children, many of whom have nowhere else to turn, so I'm delighted to have been involved." Guests at the event included 'So Macho' singer Sinitta and ChildLine founder Esther Rantzen. "Even after 25 years, recent headlines prove there is just as much need (more)...
- 10/19/2012
- by By Mayer Nissim
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen has spoken about the ongoing allegations made against Sir Jimmy Savile. The broadcaster and Childline ambassador originally appeared on the ITV documentary that first highlighted the claims Savile abused several women. Rantzen reiterated her statement that she felt "responsible" for allowing Savile to go unpunished while alive. "I didn't work in the same department with Jimmy, but I felt in a strange way responsible," she told Daybreak. "We all joined in the mythology of Sir Jimmy, we gave him this status so that he was out of reach. "It was on a level of gossip. People may say 'why didn't you pass it on?' Who too? We know that the police investigated complaints and couldn't take it further." She continued: "You heard the rumours. I never liked the man, he was always a creep, but creepy (more)...
- 10/9/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
London — For decades, Jimmy Savile was a fixture on British television – an eccentric, aggressively jocular host of children's shows and a tireless charity fundraiser. When he died last year at 84 – by then knighted as Sir Jimmy – he drew tributes from Prince Charles and thousands of fans.
Now several women have come forward to claim "Sir Jimmy" was also a sexual predator who abused underage girls.
The allegations have set off ripples of shock – but not of surprise. There had, colleagues said, long been rumors. The main question being asked now is: Why did no one do anything?
"Maybe it was just the fact that Jimmy knew everybody," Esther Rantzen, a former BBC journalist and founder of the ChildLine child-protection charity, told Channel 4 news. "We made him into the Jimmy Savile who was untouchable, who nobody could criticize."
Child protection advocates say the case fits a pattern seen in the...
Now several women have come forward to claim "Sir Jimmy" was also a sexual predator who abused underage girls.
The allegations have set off ripples of shock – but not of surprise. There had, colleagues said, long been rumors. The main question being asked now is: Why did no one do anything?
"Maybe it was just the fact that Jimmy knew everybody," Esther Rantzen, a former BBC journalist and founder of the ChildLine child-protection charity, told Channel 4 news. "We made him into the Jimmy Savile who was untouchable, who nobody could criticize."
Child protection advocates say the case fits a pattern seen in the...
- 10/2/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Actors Colin Firth and Emma Thompson have joined over 10,000 people in calling for the government to ensure refugees fleeing persecution and conflict are protected in the UK.
In signing the Refugee Council pledge, celebrities, MPs, peers, and over 10,000 people have declared they are proud the UK protects refugees, and are now asking the government to ensure refugees fleeing abuses in countries such as Syria and Iran are able to build a new home in safety in the UK. Other celebrities who have signed the pledge include Jon Snow, Esther Rantzen, Zoë Wanamaker, and Livia Firth.
“My son escaped violence in his country, and I am thankful every single day that he did. He was able to build a new life here – we have the Un Refugee Convention to thank for that,” said Emma Thompson. “But it isn’t easy and refugees still aren’t treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
In signing the Refugee Council pledge, celebrities, MPs, peers, and over 10,000 people have declared they are proud the UK protects refugees, and are now asking the government to ensure refugees fleeing abuses in countries such as Syria and Iran are able to build a new home in safety in the UK. Other celebrities who have signed the pledge include Jon Snow, Esther Rantzen, Zoë Wanamaker, and Livia Firth.
“My son escaped violence in his country, and I am thankful every single day that he did. He was able to build a new life here – we have the Un Refugee Convention to thank for that,” said Emma Thompson. “But it isn’t easy and refugees still aren’t treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
- 3/19/2012
- Look to the Stars
David Tennant has revealed that he borrowed advice from Esther Rantzen on controlling his emotions when acting. The former Doctor Who star takes on the role of vampire hunter Peter Vincent in upcoming horror remake Fright Night. Tennant told Chris Evans on BBC Radio 2 this morning that he recalled a piece of advice from the journalist and TV presenter. "I remember her when I was a kid doing That's Life and somebody interviewed her and said 'What do you do when you [don't] want to cry?', and she said, 'I dig my fingernails into the palm of my hand and it just stops me going and I can carry on," he revealed. "And she is absolutely right! And I have done that, it can also stop you laughing at the wrong moment as well." Tennant added: "So you just have to grow your (more)...
- 8/19/2011
- by By Ryan Love
- Digital Spy
If you think machines have liberated us, think again, says film-maker Adam Curtis. Instead we have lost our vision
It was amateur footage of an event involving an early video game called Pong that gave Adam Curtis the idea for his new documentary series.
In 1991, a computer engineer from California called Loren Carpenter organised a mass experiment in a huge shed. Hundreds of people were each given a paddle, and told nothing. But on a big screen in front of them was projected a game of Pong – a very basic computer game, where a ball is knocked back and forth on a screen, like table tennis. Each half of the audience jointly controlled the bat on their side of the screen; they had to operate it together and, spontaneously and without discussion, they successfully played a game of Pong, whooping and cheering at their collective collaboration.
"It was like a switch went in my head,...
It was amateur footage of an event involving an early video game called Pong that gave Adam Curtis the idea for his new documentary series.
In 1991, a computer engineer from California called Loren Carpenter organised a mass experiment in a huge shed. Hundreds of people were each given a paddle, and told nothing. But on a big screen in front of them was projected a game of Pong – a very basic computer game, where a ball is knocked back and forth on a screen, like table tennis. Each half of the audience jointly controlled the bat on their side of the screen; they had to operate it together and, spontaneously and without discussion, they successfully played a game of Pong, whooping and cheering at their collective collaboration.
"It was like a switch went in my head,...
- 5/6/2011
- by Katharine Viner
- The Guardian - Film News
This is your chance to own a unique piece of “bra art” made by your favourite celebrity – and to do your bit for charity too.
The Jewish Community Centre for London has asked its famous friends to customize bras and have been overwhelmed by their creativity.
A number of celebrities have transformed plain white bras into works of art, including Joanna Lumley, Helen Lederer, Claudia Winkleman, Esther Rantzen, Kelly Brook and many more.
Read more...
The Jewish Community Centre for London has asked its famous friends to customize bras and have been overwhelmed by their creativity.
A number of celebrities have transformed plain white bras into works of art, including Joanna Lumley, Helen Lederer, Claudia Winkleman, Esther Rantzen, Kelly Brook and many more.
Read more...
- 2/10/2011
- Look to the Stars
Esther Rantzen has claimed that "simply sacking" Adrian Chiles and Christine Bleakley will not help ITV's Daybreak win back viewers. GMTV's replacement show has recently seen its ratings tumble to half a million against BBC's Breakfast, but Rantzen believes that getting rid of the two presenters is not the only course of action bosses need to take. "My heart goes out to Adrian and Christine," she wrote in The Guardian. "All the money in the world won't make their lives worth living, as they struggle in to work long before dawn, knowing that however hard they try they won't be able to keep the audience from trickling away." Rantzen compared the situation to the launch of TV-am, which she helped found but quit just before it went on air. "It was a famous disaster, every dramatic lurch (more)...
- 11/1/2010
- by By Ryan Love
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen's daughter is reportedly being lined up for 'The One Show'. Rebecca Wilcox - who is currently a presenter on 'Watchdog' - is said to have been screen-tested to fill the shoes of Christine Bleakley on the popular BBC One show after the brunette beauty announced she was leaving to join former co-host Adrian Chiles on the 'GMTV' sofa. While this is the first time Rebecca has been linked to the job, presenters Gaby Roslin, Melanie Sykes, Kate Silverman and Gabby Logan are already in the frame, and it is believed the show's producers could make a decision as early as this ..
- 7/8/2010
- Virgin Media - TV
TV presenter Esther Rantzen has called for the BBC to save a failing Strictly Come Dancing, by bringing back judge Arlene Phillips.
Arlene was sacked and replaced by Alesha Dixon earlier this year. Esther wrote in The Daily Mail:
Of course, bring back Arlene. Alesha, gorgeous as she is, can’t compete with the authority of a worldclass choreographer. Let’s just say this was an experiment that failed.
Simon Cowell made a mistake when he sacked Louis Walsh from The X Factor, owned up and reversed his decision. BBC, you can do it.
Related posts:Arlene Phillips returning to Strictly Come DancingHarriet Harman Blasts BBC Decision To Sack Arlene PhillipsArlene Phillips speaks out over sackingArlene Phillips Moves To The One ShowArlene Phillips: ‘Jo Wood was like a plank’Copyright © Unreality TV 2009 | X Factor Updates
This feed is for personal, non-commercial use only. The use of this feed on other websites breaches copyright.
Arlene was sacked and replaced by Alesha Dixon earlier this year. Esther wrote in The Daily Mail:
Of course, bring back Arlene. Alesha, gorgeous as she is, can’t compete with the authority of a worldclass choreographer. Let’s just say this was an experiment that failed.
Simon Cowell made a mistake when he sacked Louis Walsh from The X Factor, owned up and reversed his decision. BBC, you can do it.
Related posts:Arlene Phillips returning to Strictly Come DancingHarriet Harman Blasts BBC Decision To Sack Arlene PhillipsArlene Phillips speaks out over sackingArlene Phillips Moves To The One ShowArlene Phillips: ‘Jo Wood was like a plank’Copyright © Unreality TV 2009 | X Factor Updates
This feed is for personal, non-commercial use only. The use of this feed on other websites breaches copyright.
- 12/18/2009
- by Lisa McGarry
- Unreality
Esther Rantzen has claimed that Strictly Come Dancing has "lost its glitter". The former That's Life! presenter told the Daily Mail that the BBC should bring back the separate results show and Arlene Phillips in place of Alesha Dixon. Rantzen said: "Someone in the BBC has lost the plot. This is a show about people. We want to see the celebrities out of their comfort zone, struggling physically and emotionally; people who don't find ballroom dancing easy. "Make us care about the celebrities who take part, and the show will be magical (more)...
- 12/18/2009
- by By Mayer Nissim
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen has confirmed that she is running for MP in Luton South at the next general election. The I'm A Celebrity... contestant said that she wants to provide voters with "a choice" at the ballot box. Rantzen revealed in May that she was considering standing after the MPs' expenses scandal surfaced. "This is an exciting and slightly petrifying new step for me," she told Pa. "There is a feeling in the air that people want a choice. We are still feeling, all of us, angry and distressed about the expenses scandal." Luton South's current MP Margaret Moran is standing down at the next election following (more)...
- 7/28/2009
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen has revealed that she is considering standing as an independent MP for Luton South in the next general election. The television personality's decision to fight for the seat comes in the wake of the expenses scandal that has marred the reputation of current Labour MP Margaret Moran. "I think Margaret Moran's claim for £22,500 to get the dry rot off her house 100 miles away was a disgrace and she has paid it back, but she has paid it back now we know about (more)...
- 5/20/2009
- by By David Balls
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen has described her fellow I'm A Celebrity... contestants as "bullies". The 68-year-old, who campaigns for children's rights, made the remark at last night's Diana Anti-Bullying Awards in Docklands, London. "Recently, I was in the jungle where there was bullying - there was no question bullying was going on," she said. "I think and hope everybody learns from that experience. Certainly I did." The TV presenter criticised (more)...
- 12/16/2008
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
Brian Paddick has become the sixth contestant to be voted off I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here!. The former police officer received the least amount of support from the public and follows Robert Kilroy-Silk, Carly Zucker, Dani Behr, Timmy Mallett and Esther Rantzen off the show. Speaking after his eviction, Brian told Ant and Dec that he entered the jungle in order to do something "trivial" after his career in law enforcement and (more)...
- 12/1/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen became the fifth contestant to leave the I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! jungle after losing the public vote on Sunday. Her eviction came close on the heels of Timmy Mallet's departure after he lost a surprise Bushtucker Trial to Brian Paddick. Rantzen, who received the fewest votes ahead of former Blue singer Simon Webbe, said her time in the jungle had been emotional. She said: "It made me feel very vulnerable (more)...
- 12/1/2008
- by By Sarah Rollo
- Digital Spy
Brian Paddick has confessed that he has been "constantly depressed" during his time in the I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! jungle. The politician told Esther Rantzen that he feels left out because he is the only contestant in this year's show without a glamorous background. "I have little in common with everybody because you're all showbiz people and (more)...
- 11/30/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen has called fellow I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! contestant Martina Navratilova "ferocious". Navratilova was furious with David Van Day for seizing a bed on the bus after Carly Zucker's exit, and claimed that his refusal to clean up after dinner was "horses**t". Esther told George Takei that she does not want to end up on the wrong side of Martina. "I'm not going to tangle with the lady. She's ferocious. One feels like saying (more)...
- 11/30/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen has revealed that she has not had sex in eight years. The former talkshow host, who lost husband Desmond Wilcox in 2000, told I'm A Celebrity... campmates Carly Zucker and Nicola McLean that she would not recommend being without a lover for so long. "How have you gone eight years without sex, Esther? Please tell me," Nicola asked. "With a lot of cold showers," (more)...
- 11/29/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
I'm A Celebrity... star Joe Swash has revealed that the first time he had sex almost put him off. The former EastEnders actor said that he lost his virginity with an older girl before his 16th birthday, but does not look back on the episode with fond memories. "My first sexual experience was with an older girl and I didn't enjoy it at all. I wanted to do it when it wasn't legal before I was 16. She was 22 or 23. I imagined it was a lot better than what it really was," he told Esther Rantzen. "It wasn't my girlfriend and it was in the bathroom. She planned (more)...
- 11/27/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
David Van Day has claimed that he has to compromise his sense of humour in order to avoid conflict with the other I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! contestants. The former Dollar singer admitted to Esther Rantzen that he is struggling to deal with some of his fellow campmates. He told her that they have not welcomed him and Timmy Mallett since their late entrance into the jungle. "It's annoying. You've got to compromise your humour then, haven't you?" (more)...
- 11/25/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen has assigned the I'm A Celebrity... campmates government roles. The TV presenter said she would install Brian Paddick as Prime Minister, while Robert Kilroy-Silk would "of course" be leader of the opposition. "Nicola is minister for defence, she's got the bazookas. Martina is the chancellor of the exchequer, bean counting and making sure it's Ok. Credit crunch? No problem with Martina," (more)...
- 11/23/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
The contestants on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! have revealed who they think are the biggest "legends" on the show. Former EastEnders actor Joe Swash told Nicola McLean and Esther Rantzen that he counts Martina Navratilova, George Takei and Brian Paddick as heroes in their respective professions. "You've got Brian whose a legend in his own right in the field that he chose to work in, the police force, he reached the top," he said. "You've got Martina who's nine times (more)...
- 11/21/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
Nicola McLean has told her fellow I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! contestants that it has been one year since she had her breasts enlarged. The glamour model came to the realisation during a chat with Esther Rantzen, Carly Zucker and Dani Behr. "What day is it? Is it Wednesday? It's their birthday," she said. She then asked (more)...
- 11/20/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
Esther Rantzen was one of the famous faces that headed into the jungle for I'm A Celebrity... on Sunday. The former That's Life! presenter is an established journalist and founder of the ChildLine charity. After appearing on Stars In Their Eyes, Strictly Come Dancing and helming her own chatshow, a few creepy crawlies shouldn't cause her too much bother. Read on to find out ten fascinating facts about the TV broadcaster. 1. Esther clearly isn't a fan of Top Gear, describing Jeremy Clarkson as the "male animal in extremis". She once said: "There are certain men who are like litmus paper for me; if they express a view, that's really helpful, because I know I'm going to think the opposite. Clarkson is one." 2. One of Esther's pearls of wisdom is "never eat cat or dog food". The That's (more)...
- 11/19/2008
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
Robert Kilroy-Silk has expressed concern at the controlling behaviour of Esther Rantzen and Carly Zucker in the jungle. The politician and former TV presenter told the Bush Telegraph that the pair may cause "problems" as the show progresses. "Esther likes being in control as perhaps we all do," he said. "I think the other two [females] are quite feisty and they're quite opinionated (more)...
- 11/17/2008
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! contestant Robert Kilroy-Silk has confessed that the Away Camp is miserable. This presenter said the group, which consists of himself, Carly Zucker, Esther Rantzen, Nicola McLean and Simon Webbe, must sleep on the floor and can be reprimanded by being placed in Jungle Jail. "We're very down and miserable but somehow everybody (more)...
- 11/17/2008
- by By Michael Thornton
- Digital Spy
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