Daily News 19

Tag: TV and Film

  • Matthew Rhys Unrecognisable in BBC Debut Role Unseen for Over 25 Years

    Matthew Rhys Unrecognisable in BBC Debut Role Unseen for Over 25 Years

    Matthew Rhys Makes Emmy History with Dual Lead Acting Wins

    Welsh actor Matthew Rhys achieved a historic milestone at the Emmy Awards, becoming the first performer to win two lead acting categories in a single ceremony. The BBC reported that Rhys secured the award for Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for his performance in Widow’s Bay and the award for Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for his role in The Beast in Me.

    From Rookie Cop to Emmy Winner: Rhys’s Career Journey

    Rhys’s career spans nearly three decades across television, theatre, and film. His resume includes voiceover work in animated series such as Bojack Horseman, Archer, and Tuca and Bertie, alongside film credits like Come What May, The Post, and Cocaine Bear.

    His first television role came in 1997 with a small part in the BBC police procedural drama Backup. Rhys portrayed rookie police officer PC Steve Higson, who discovers the body of a teenager. Footage from the series shows a fresh-faced, clean-shaven Rhys with short hair giving evidence in court—a stark contrast to the longer curly hair and beard he wore on awards night.

    Historic Night at the Emmys

    Only a very small group of actors have ever been nominated for two leading awards at the Emmys in the same year, a list that includes Alan Alda, Ted Danson, Sally Field, John Goodman, and Elisabeth Moss. Rhys went further, making history as the first actor to win both leading categories on the same night.

    Other winners during the ceremony included Jean Smart, Allison Janney, and Stephen Colbert.

    Rhys’s Emotional Acceptance Speeches

    Accepting his second award of the evening, Rhys dedicated the honor to his homeland:

    “to the great and good people of Wales, who were as much a nurture as anyone else”

    “We are a small but mighty nation. This is incredible,” he said, adding: “Diolch yn fawr iawn”, which is Cymraeg for ‘thank you very much’.

    Speaking backstage after the awards, Rhys reflected on the significance of the moment for Wales:

    “I’m from a small country, and I’m glad we get moments to kind of put our flag on the map and say, ‘we punch higher than our weight sometimes’.”

    He also thanked his co-star Claire Danes, who plays an author developing an unhealthy obsession with a neighbor suspected of murder in The Beast in Me:

    “Thank you for letting me join the mystery machine and bringing out the beast, you are an intimidating scene partner, but I’m grateful for all this.”

    Rhys thanked his family, loved ones, and colleagues, in particular his parents who he said kicked me on to the stage at a very early age.

    Tributes to Dolly Parton and Catherine O’Hara

    The ceremony also featured special tributes. Actor Sally Field, who starred with Dolly Parton, honored the singer and philanthropist:

    “God bless you Dolly Parton my friend, I am not the only one on Earth who will love you for ever and ever.”

    Tributes were also paid to actor Catherine O’Hara by Macaulay Culkin, Annie Murphy, and Dan Levy, who all played her on-screen children in Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek. Culkin quipped:

    “She may have forgotten me… twice! But we will always remember her.”

  • Emmy Awards 2026 Poised to Make History as Major Records Could Fall

    Emmy Awards 2026 Poised to Make History as Major Records Could Fall

    78th Primetime Emmy Awards: Historic Records Within Reach for Matthew Rhys, Zendaya, Jean Smart and More

    The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards kick off this evening with a galaxy of television talent and several landmark records poised to fall. Beyond the traditional trophies, industry research from ActionNetwork.com highlights a slate of historic firsts and statistical milestones that could be secured alongside the wins.

    Matthew Rhys and Widow’s Bay Target Welsh First and Comedy Series Record

    Widow’s Bay star Matthew Rhys could become the first Welsh actor ever to win Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. The series itself is also chasing history: it enters the night with eight Creative Arts Emmy wins and seven additional nominations, positioning it to surpass The Studio‘s current single-season comedy record of 13 wins set last year, as well as the record for most wins by a comedy series in its debut season.

    Matthew Rhys could make history at tonight’s awards (Chris Delmas / AFP via Getty Images)

    Actress Records: Jean Smart, Zendaya and Quinta Brunson

    Jean Smart’s Perfect Season Sweep and All-Time Performer Mark

    Jean Smart has won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for all four seasons of Hacks. A victory tonight would extend that streak to a perfect five-for-five. She would also tie the all-time record for most Emmy wins by a performer — eight — currently shared by Cloris Leachman and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

    Zendaya Aims for Youngest Three-Time Drama Lead Winner and Black Actress First

    Zendaya could become the youngest actress to win three Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Euphoria. She already made history in 2020 as the youngest winner in the category at age 24. A third win would also make her the first Black actress to win three times in the drama lead category.

    Zendaya at the Emmy Awards
    Zendaya could break a couple of records, if she wins (John Nacion/WireImage)

    Quinta Brunson Seeks Second Comedy Lead Win for Black Actress

    Quinta Brunson could become the first Black actress to win twice in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series category for Abbott Elementary. Her 2023 victory marked the first win by a Black actress in the category since 1981.

    British and Welsh Stars Poised for Supporting Actor Firsts

    Jack Lowden, frequently tipped as the next James Bond, could become the first Scottish actor to win Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for Slow Horses. Meanwhile, Gerran Howell of The Pitt could claim the first Welsh win in the same category — setting up a potential dual Welsh celebration alongside Rhys’s lead actor nomination.

    Veteran Actors Target Oldest-Winner Records Across Categories

    Gary Oldman Eyes Oldest Drama Lead Actor Win

    Gary Oldman (Slow Horses, age 68) could surpass Richard Kiley (66 when he won for A Year in the Life in 1988) as the oldest winner for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

    Martin Short Chases Oldest Comedy Lead Actor Record

    Martin Short (Only Murders in the Building) could break Eugene Levy’s record as the oldest winner for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.

    Harrison Ford and Stephen Root Vie for Oldest Comedy Supporting Actor

    Harrison Ford (Shrinking, age 84) could surpass Henry Winkler (72 when he won for Barry in 2018) as the oldest winner for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Stephen Root (Widow’s Bay, age 74) is also in contention for the same record.

    With records spanning nationality, age, representation and series dominance, tonight’s ceremony promises to be a historic benchmark for television excellence.

  • Dave Franco Explains ‘Complicated’ Relationship With Brother James, ‘Who He Still Loves’

    Dave Franco Explains ‘Complicated’ Relationship With Brother James, ‘Who He Still Loves’

    Dave Franco Opens Up About Complex Relationship With Brother James Franco

    For years, Dave Franco navigated Hollywood primarily known as “James Franco’s little brother.” However, recent successes — including 21 Jump Street, the horror film Together co-starring his wife Alison Brie, and his performance in Seth Rogen’s The Studio — have established him as a talent in his own right. Despite this, comparisons to his older brother persist, particularly following the sexual misconduct allegations that effectively cast James Franco out of the mainstream industry in 2018.

    James Franco’s 2018 Allegations and Fallout

    The 127 Hours star faced multiple accusations during his Oscar campaign for The Disaster Artist. An ex-girlfriend accused him of sexual assault, while several former students of his acting school filed lawsuits alleging he was “sexually inappropriate” and ran a “Sex Scenes” class. James Franco later admitted to sleeping with students but maintained the class was separate from those relationships. Following the allegations, longtime collaborator Seth Rogen publicly cut ties with him.

    In a 2021 appearance on The Jess Cagle Show, James Franco addressed the impact on his family, stating: “I don’t want Seth [Rogen, who has cut ties with James] or my brother or anyone to have to answer for me anymore.”

    Dave Franco Breaks Silence on Armchair Expert Podcast

    Dave Franco had never publicly commented on the allegations against his brother until a recent appearance on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast. The conversation turned to the experience of interviewing family members and the unexpected vulnerability it creates.

    Dave Franco referenced an Esquire shoot where he interviewed his brother, recalling: “Woah, we’ve never talked about any of this and you get kind of vulnerable and it’s kind of nice and you learn about each other.”

    During the podcast, one of the co-hosts mentioned they had “forgot” Dave was related to James. The Together actor described the dynamic as “complicated.”

    He continued: “I’ve felt a lot more [his own person] in recent years. It’s a complicated thing where I love my brother and I’m so grateful for the advice he gave me coming through this business.”

    Dave Franco acknowledged the value of observing his brother’s career, saying he appreciated watching how James “navigated certain situations” and will “always be grateful for that.” He added: “I think in recent years I’ve kind of gone down my path long enough that people have started to give me my own due.” Dave noted this separation was especially challenging because “he’s a very talented [actor].”

    Shepard compared the brothers’ dynamic to Frank and Sylvester Stallone, but observed that Dave had “risen up to be co-Sylvester.”

  • Star Trek Legend William Shatner Reveals Bosses Wanted Spock to Lose Iconic Pointy Ears

    Star Trek Legend William Shatner Reveals Bosses Wanted Spock to Lose Iconic Pointy Ears

    Star Trek legend William Shatner has revealed that network executives originally wanted to remove Spock’s signature pointed ears, a creative decision that could have fundamentally altered one of science fiction’s most recognizable characters.

    The iconic series debuted 60 years ago this month, but Shatner recently reflected on the show’s early development during an interview with Interview Magazine. The 95-year-old actor, who portrayed Captain James T. Kirk in the original series, disclosed that NBC brass initially objected to the Vulcan’s distinctive appearance.

    Network Pushback on Spock’s Design

    According to Shatner, the network’s first reaction to the character was blunt. “The first thing they said with Spock is, ‘Get rid of the ears.’ And bless our management, they said, ‘No, we’re not getting rid of the ears,’” he shared.

    The management team prevailed, and Spock — originally played by Leonard Nimoy and later by Zachary Quinto in the reboot films — retained the pointed ears that became a franchise hallmark.

    Ears Essential to ‘Science-Fiction Magic’

    Shatner emphasized that preserving the ears was crucial to establishing the show’s unique identity. “In that pilot, I was attracted to the magic, the imagination behind that pilot with the swollen heads and the pulsing. It was such wonderful makeup. It was intriguing from many points of view.”

    The actor explained that these creative elements helped audiences suspend disbelief. “You can have weird people coming out of a rock and saying, ‘These are the people who live on this planet,’ and accept it because you don’t know who’s living on that planet in the sky,” he said. “That science-fiction magic was a big propellant in the popularity of Star Trek.”

    Franchise Endurance and Optimistic Vision

    More than half a century later, Star Trek has grown into one of the highest-grossing media franchises in history. From the original series, the property has expanded to include multiple spin-off shows, films, video games, comics, novels, merchandise, and conventions where “Trekkies” celebrate the USS Enterprise universe.

    The franchise continues to attract new generations through ongoing reinvention. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter about Star Trek’s longevity, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds creator Akiva Goldsman offered insight into its enduring appeal.

    “I think Star Trek reflects the world as we wish it was. The promise of a bright future. And with the real-world future looking scarier every day, it takes a lot of will to hold onto optimism. Articulating a sci-fi vision of a world where we actually do solve problems — that’s as important today as it was in 1966.”

    As the franchise marks its 60th anniversary, Shatner’s revelation underscores how a single creative stand by production management preserved a visual icon that helped launch a cultural phenomenon.

  • Viewers Raise ‘Stroke’ Concerns After ABC News Anchor’s Face Drops Live on Air

    Viewers Raise ‘Stroke’ Concerns After ABC News Anchor’s Face Drops Live on Air

    ABC Melbourne news anchor Iskhandar Razak has reassured viewers after an on-air medical emergency during a live broadcast on Friday, 4 September. While delivering a weather update, Razak’s face appeared to droop on one side, prompting immediate concern from audiences who flooded social media with messages asking if he was okay.

    Anchor confirms Bell’s palsy diagnosis, not a stroke

    Razak later shared a video update on Instagram confirming he had not suffered a stroke. Instead, doctors diagnosed him with Bell’s palsy, a condition causing sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face.

    “Good news, it’s not a stroke but as you can see my face isn’t really reacting as it normally would.

    “There’s some paralysation of this side of the face at the moment.”

    He thanked viewers for their support and explained that a trip to the emergency room ruled out anything life-threatening.

    “What it is, is Bell’s palsy, inflammation of the ear through, or an ear nerve that’s connected up and it means this is slower to react.

    ‘I have been able to force myself to make it a bit better when I’ve had to work.

    “But keen people have noticed that this eye, more than anything, is really taking its time to shut.

    “So I am going to take a few days off, and hopefully this will sort itself out with medication and treatment in a few weeks tops.

    “Thank you again to everyone who’s asked, and if you see me with an eye patch on the streets, you know why.”

    Razak describes moment he knew something was wrong

    Speaking earlier on ABC Radio Melbourne, Razak detailed the timeline of the incident. He said he had felt unwell in the days leading up to the broadcast and had slept poorly the night before.

    “I was aware something was different and so the first real inclination that I thought something is probably askew was about 3.45pm, when I was on air with Charlie Pickering and that’s when I felt like I was talking out of the side of my mouth and felt a bit different.

    “At the same time, I was thinking, the worst thing is that something’s really wrong here and it could be a stroke.

    “But I’m chatting away and no one’s noticing a thing. Everyone’s listening. No one’s made any comment that my face looks different. I’m completely coherent.

    “But when I got home that night, my wife, who is a GP, looked at me straight away and said, ”half of your face has got a droop going on”.

    “I couldn’t make a bubble with my face because I’d lost that muscle connection.”

    Recovery expected to take several months

    Medical professionals told Razak a full recovery typically takes between three to six months. He said he will take a few weeks off work while undergoing medication and treatment.

    The incident highlights how quickly viewers can detect subtle changes during live broadcasts and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention when stroke-like symptoms appear — even when they turn out to be a different neurological condition.

  • Pierce Bronsan Addresses Tom Hardy ‘Mobland’ On-Set Feud Rumors

    Pierce Bronsan Addresses Tom Hardy ‘Mobland’ On-Set Feud Rumors

    Pierce Brosnan has finally addressed the persistent rumors of an on-set feud with his Mobland co-star Tom Hardy, dismissing the speculation as a storm in a teacup and praising the British actor's talent and professionalism. The clarification comes months after reports surfaced claiming Hardy had been fired from the Paramount+ crime drama due to behavioral issues, allegations that were swiftly denied by production sources.

    Earlier Reports Alleged On-Set Tensions and Firing

    Earlier this year, industry outlets including Puck News and The Hollywood Reporter published claims that Hardy had been removed from the production. Reports alleged the 48-year-old actor was frequently late to set and difficult to work with, leaving co-stars Brosnan and Dame Helen Mirren waiting for hours. One unnamed source cited by The Hollywood Reporter went so far as to suggest Hardy had committed career suicide with his conduct.

    However, the narrative shifted quickly. Just days after the initial reports, Variety published a statement from a source close to the production that directly contradicted the firing claims.

    “Tom was not fired, the door is not closed for Season 3 and things are being worked through creatively.”

    Shortly thereafter, it was confirmed that Hardy would indeed return for a third season of the series.

    Dame Helen Mirren Publicly Quashed Feud Speculation

    Amid the swirling rumors, Dame Helen Mirren took to social media to publicly support her co-star. She shared an image of Hardy in character as Harry Da Souza on Instagram with a caption that left little room for ambiguity regarding their relationship.

    “Love you now and always, Helen.”

    When pressed by media on whether she would work with Hardy again, Mirren offered a blunt, affirmative response, further damping down suggestions of a fractured cast dynamic.

    Pierce Brosnan: We Are Rock Solid as a Company, as a Family

    Speaking to the Press Association at the premiere of Mobland's second season, Brosnan, 73, offered his most detailed comments on the matter to date. The veteran actor, who portrays mob patriarch Conrad Harrigan, characterized the controversy as vastly overblown.

    “Oh my God, it was a storm in a teacup, really.”

    Brosnan emphasized his personal admiration for Hardy and the strength of the ensemble dynamic.

    “I love the dude. I love Tom Hardy. I'm a massive fan of the man's work. Truly.”

    “We are rock solid as a company, as a family.”

    He also provided insight into the demanding production schedule that leaves little time for off-set socializing, framing the cast's focus as professional dedication rather than personal distance.

    “Everyone shows up for work, and everybody's just there on the spot. It moves very fast so it's not like we go out and socialise and go to the pub or anything like that.”

    “Everyone goes home to their families and before you know it, you've done 10 episodes.”

    Tom Hardy Calls Collaboration a Privilege

    For his part, Hardy echoed the sentiment of mutual respect at the same event, describing the experience of working alongside Brosnan and Mirren as a career highlight.

    “They're awesome. In many aspects of course I look up to them. Coming up, these are actors that came before me.”

    “So to be able to work with them is a privilege, but also to be able to enjoy them, watching them spread their wings with their range now as well, and play against their type in some aspects, and really enjoy that is a beautiful thing to watch as a human being.”

    Hardy highlighted the positive atmosphere on set and the joy of watching seasoned veterans continue to challenge themselves.

    “These guys are really talented and they're having a lot of fun. That's beautiful.”

    “Taking it away as a person, just watching people enjoy themselves and watching a good team work together and having fun.”

    “That exists in the Mobland tribe, and Dame Helen and Pierce are of that family so in that respect, not only just to be a part of it, but to watch and observe them still enjoying themselves and pushing the envelope is brilliant.”

    With both leads publicly affirming a strong working relationship, the focus returns to the series' upcoming third season, where the Mobland tribe will reassemble for further episodes.

  • Alan Ritchson Unrecognizable in Forgotten ‘American Idol’ Audition Where Simon Cowell Walked Off Set

    Alan Ritchson Unrecognizable in Forgotten ‘American Idol’ Audition Where Simon Cowell Walked Off Set

    Alan Ritchson, now widely recognized as the star of Amazon Prime’s Reacher and a leading action hero, first caught the public’s attention long before he donned the mantle of Jack Reacher. His early claim to fame included roles as Aquaman on Smallville and Thad Castle on Blue Mountain State, but for many fans, the first glimpse of Ritchson came during his run on American Idol season three.

    Paula Abdul’s ‘Totally Hot’ Comment and the Audition That Went Viral

    At the time, Ritchson was working as a fashion model. His audition became memorable after judge Paula Abdul described him as ‘totally hot’, joking that this ‘didn’t influence her decision… that much’. The moment escalated when Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell walked out to let him sing directly to Abdul, with Ritchson dropping to one knee in front of her. After she hugged him following his performance, he joked that his fellow judges were ‘jealous’ when they tried to move her away. Jackson advised him to avoid using runs in his singing, but ultimately all three judges voted yes, sending him through to Hollywood.

    From Villain Edit to Hollywood Week: The Reality TV Experience

    Between the initial audition and the Hollywood rounds, Ritchson received what he later called a ‘villain edit’. Producers portrayed him flirting with and pushing a fellow contestant into a pool—a scenario he revealed on Jimmy Kimmel Live! he had been instructed to perform. His Hollywood week performance was widely regarded as cringe-worthy, and he was eliminated before the finals.

    How American Idol Opened Doors to Acting: Aquaman and Beyond

    Despite the early exit, Ritchson credits the show with launching his career. In an interview with Dax Shepard on the Armchair Expert podcast, he described American Idol as an ‘eye-opening experience’ that ‘opened some doors’. Shortly after his appearance, he landed the role of Aquaman on Smallville, marking his entry into professional acting.

    Ritchson’s Reflection: ‘I Wanted to Be Around People Who Were Like I’m Going to Die If I Don’t Get This Thing’

    Recalling the moment he was cut, Ritchson said he remained relatively unfazed, but noted the dramatic reaction of another eliminated contestant who ‘fell to the ground like a cockroach, it was like her life was over’. He explained:

    “I was just observing it like ‘what is it like to want something that bad?’ I’d never felt that before.”

    He continued:

    “It made me want to move out to LA. I still didn’t know about acting at that point… I wanted to be around people who were like I’m going to die if I don’t get this thing.”

    Ritchson has since stated that if he ever meets Paula Abdul again, he would ‘thank her for the crack in the door’—a testament to how a single audition reshaped his trajectory from model to leading man.

    Alan Ritchson serenading Paula Abdul (Fox)
    Alan Ritchson has credited the American Idol audition with kickstarting his career (Peru Williams/Variety via Getty Images)
  • James Buckley’s favourite line from The Inbetweeners isn’t even one of his own

    James Buckley’s favourite line from The Inbetweeners isn’t even one of his own

    Netflix Confirms Third Inbetweeners Movie as Cast Reunites for New Adventure

    Nearly two decades after its Channel 4 debut, The Inbetweeners is set to return for a third feature film. Netflix has announced that the original quartet – Simon Bird (Will McKenzie), Joe Thomas (Simon Cooper), Blake Harrison (Neil Sutherland) and James Buckley (Jay Cartwright) – will reprise their roles for another installment. The sitcom, which aired for just 18 episodes across three seasons between 2008 and 2010, spawned two successful movies and remains a cultural touchstone, with Bird revealing he still hears “briefcase w***er” shouted at him in public.

    The Inbetweeners first launched in 2008 (Channel 4)

    James Buckley Reveals His Favourite Line – And It Isn’t His Own

    During a late 2023 appearance on The Therapy Crouch podcast alongside his wife Clair Buckley, James Buckley disclosed that his favourite line from the entire series belongs to his on-screen father Terry, played by David Schaal. He recalled the moment verbatim:

    “There’s a line from The Inbetweeners, this is one of my favourite lines and it is Jay talking to his dad.
    “And his dad just goes, ‘Jay, women are like fairground rides, f**king mental.’
    “That’s it, that’s all it is – that’s the pearls of wisdom.
    “And I’m just like ‘oh thanks dad.’”

    The line encapsulates the show’s blend of crude humour and unexpectedly poignant father-son dynamics that resonated with audiences.

    James Buckley has shared his favourite line from the show (Channel 4)

    Simon Bird’s Most Memorable Moment Was a Real-Life Health and Safety Nightmare

    While Buckley cherishes a scripted gag, Simon Bird’s standout memory comes from behind the cameras during the first movie. Speaking to The National Youth Film in 2021, he described a stunt that went far beyond the script:

    “There was a scene in the film, where Joe had to be airlifted out of the ocean by a helicopter. That was a big health and safety nightmare.
    “Joe was really left alone out in the sea for quite a long time. It was actually being saved from drowning. Totally unnecessary for it to be Joe. Could have been a stuntman. Should have been a stuntman. And we’re all on sunloungers on the beach, watching this unfold.”

    The incident underscores the often chaotic nature of the production and the camaraderie – however twisted – that defined the cast’s relationships.

    The original four pals will be reuniting for a third movie (Channel 4)

    Reddit Users Crown the Ultimate Inbetweeners Quote

    With a new film on the horizon, fans have been revisiting the series’ most iconic moments. A 2022 Reddit thread asking What is your favourite ever line/scene from The Inbetweeners? drew hundreds of responses. Among the contenders were classic exchanges such as Neil and Jay’s Championship Manager boast:

    Neil: How about this one? Jay: Championship manager? Completed it. Neil: But you can’t complete it. Jay: Err, I know. But I got so good at it they offered me in a role in the England set-up. Neil: Did they? Jay: I took Woking from the Conference to the Champions League in 6 seasons, that kind of stuff doesn’t go unnoticed.

    Jay’s seafood aversion also earned votes:

    Jay: I’m not eating that, it’s come out the f**king sea.

    Other frequently mentioned catchphrases included Bus W**kers and ooo friend, while a darkly comic exchange between Tara and Will highlighted the show’s knack for awkward timing:

    Tara: Her dad just died last month. Will: It’s not really relevant is it?

    However, the clear winner by upvotes was a succinct, brutal put-down between Simon and Jay:

    Simon: No-one brings a bag of s**t to a pub. Jay: Your dad does. Simon: Does he? Jay: Yeah. Your mum.

    As the cast prepares to slip back into their trainers and ill-fitting jeans for a third cinematic outing, the enduring popularity of these lines proves that The Inbetweeners remains as quotable – and as painfully relatable – as ever.

  • Alan Carr’s Side-Splitting NTA Comeback After Paloma Faith and Amanda Holden Serenade Leaves Him in Tears

    Alan Carr’s Side-Splitting NTA Comeback After Paloma Faith and Amanda Holden Serenade Leaves Him in Tears

    Alan Carr Delivers Hilarious Acceptance Speech After Emotional Special Recognition Award at NTAs

    Comedian Alan Carr received the special recognition award at tonight’s National Television Awards (NTAs), delivering a characteristically funny acceptance speech after being moved to tears during a dramatic tribute performance.

    Star-Studded Tribute Leaves Carr Emotional

    Before Carr collected the honor, the audience watched a theatrical performance featuring Amanda Holden, Paloma Faith, Kate Garraway, Charlotte Church, and David Olusoga. Faith was carried onto the stage in a black coffin, a clear reference to their time together on The Celebrity Traitors.

    In a pre-recorded video tribute, Faith said: “Despite the wickedness, despite the cruelty of the man, it’s very hard not to love him.”

    Host Claudia Winkleman added: “He’s delicious, isn’t he? I’d like him on a cracker.”

    Carr appeared visibly moved as he realized the performance was dedicated to him, with tears in his eyes as he headed to the stage.

    Carr’s Self-Deprecating Acceptance Speech

    Upon reaching the podium, the 50-year-old comedian admitted he had no prior knowledge of the recognition. He quipped about his usual seating arrangement at awards ceremonies:

    “This is how thick I am, it was only when Paloma came out that I realised it’s me,” he said. “I should have realised when they put me in the front row, I’m usually in the back with the people from Naked Attraction.”

    The Celebrity Traitors Controversy Resurfaces

    The award comes months after Carr’s ruthless gameplay on The Celebrity Traitors shocked viewers. Despite his over-the-top public persona, Carr revealed a strategic side when he eliminated his real-life friend Faith during the very first episode.

    Speaking on the after-show podcast The Celebrity Traitors: Uncloaked, Faith expressed her disappointment:

    “I don’t think it was very nice.”

    “If the shoe was on the other foot, I would not have touched Alan’s face. Categorically, he had a choice – maybe it was the easiest option, but it was the choice he made and I don’t think it was very nice”

    She later reiterated her stance: “I still maintain to this day that if the shoe was on the other foot, I wouldn’t have done that. So I don’t think he should have done it to me and I’m surprised that he did.”

    Co-Stars Dismiss Feud Rumors

    Speculation about a rift between the pair circulated after the episode aired, but co-star Kate Garraway quickly dismissed those rumors during an appearance on Heart Breakfast with Amanda Holden.

    When asked about the supposed feud by Jamie Theakston, Holden stated it had been “blown out of proportion,” with Garraway adding:

    “It’s a game! Alan hasn’t said anything about Paloma to me, and Paloma hasn’t about Alan.

    “I think it was pretty shocking, it was indeed flabbergasting even though Tom thought it was ridiculous to be flabbergasted, but to see her in that coffin when the lid slammed down was really shocking… So, I think it was extreme, and it got intense, but yeah!”

    The special recognition award celebrates Carr’s enduring contribution to British television, spanning stand-up comedy, chat shows, and entertainment formats.

  • Matilda Actor Quits Hollywood Years After Being Swung by Hair in Iconic Practical Stunt

    Matilda Actor Quits Hollywood Years After Being Swung by Hair in Iconic Practical Stunt

    Matilda Child Star Jaki Steiger Reveals Life After Hollywood and Secrets Behind Iconic Pigtail Scene

    Thirty years after Matilda premiered, fans still remember Amanda Thripp — the girl swung around by her pigtails by Miss Trunchbull in one of the film’s most unforgettable moments. While Mara Wilson famously left acting in 2000, Amanda’s portrayer, Jaki Steiger (credited as Jacqueline Steiger at the time), also stepped away from the spotlight. Now, the former child actor has opened up about life after Hollywood, the practical effects behind that legendary scene, and a sweet reunion with Danny DeVito.

    From Child Actor to Linguistics Student

    Jaki, who uses They/She pronouns, acted “pretty consistently their whole childhood,” appearing in films like Beautiful alongside Sally Field. But the grind took a toll. In a pinned Instagram post, they explained they got “tired of cancelling important social plans” to audition three times a week. Jaki ultimately quit acting to study Linguistics, Anthropology, and Queer Theory at university.

    Health issues later derailed plans to work in production. Since then, Jaki has built a varied career: teaching English in Thailand, working in customer support and onboarding, becoming an educational designer, providing “knowledge architecture,” and writing grants.

    Behind the Scenes: How the Pigtail Scene Was Filmed

    The iconic moment where Amanda is hammer-thrown across the field wasn’t CGI magic — it was practical effects. Danny DeVito, who directed and starred in the film, explained the setup in DVD bonus material:

    “We had a crane, we had a very, very big crane. It went up and came down and we put her in a harness.”

    “The thing about Jacqueline (now Jaki) I remember really well is that she read. Constantly, she read as much as Matilda.”

    A combination of a rig, a crane, and small bits of CGI created the illusion. Jaki recalled loving the experience, especially because they were made to “feel like they could fly.” Their codeword for getting too dizzy? “jellybeans.”

    Reunions and Cameos

    Despite leaving the industry, Jaki hasn’t shied away from their Matilda legacy. They offer cameos, appeared at a recent concert version of the film, and reunited with DeVito. In a 2013 reunion, they even recreated the iconic pigtail spin — a testament to a moment that still resonates three decades later.