Latest news with #autumn
Irish Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Times
Marian Keyes on casting The Walsh Sisters: ‘The big worry was who is playing Luke Costello?'
When Marian Keyes first visited the set of The Walsh Sisters, the upcoming RTE drama series based on her books, seeing the cast in action she says, was like watching her characters emerge straight off the page and into real life. 'They weren't even being filmed at the time, but all five of them [the sisters] were talking together and they were just this ball of chat…it was like they'd walked out of my head, they looked exactly like how I imagined them,' she says. The new six-part drama series, which will be on our screens this autumn, is based on characters from five of Keyes' novels, including Rachel's Holiday and Anybody Out There. Set in Dublin, it follows the lives of Anna, Rachel, Maggie, Claire and Helen as they navigate relationships, heartache, addiction and parenthood. Louisa Harland (Derry Girls), Stephanie Preissner (Can't Cope, Won't Cope) and rising talent Caroline Menton (Oddity), are just some of the names headlining the cast. READ MORE Although the casting of the five sisters was important to get right, it was the casting of Luke Costello, Rachel's complicated love interest, which Keyes says was really crucial. 'It was the big worry as far as everyone was concerned,' she says. 'I was getting literal letters, threatening letters, saying: 'Who is playing Luke Costello',' she laughs. In the end, the role was given to an actor from Dublin called Jay Duffy. He's the son of former Boyzone member, Keith Duffy. Of his casting, Keyes says: ' It was the only bit of casting that I felt that I could kind of get down on my knees and plead about. So I mean, I did go to them and say: 'don't f**k this up', because it just mattered to too many people.' The highly anticipated Walsh Sisters isn't the only TV adaptation in the works for Keyes. Her 2021 novel Grownups is currently being adapted for Netflix, with filming on the project due to begin later this year. Screenwriter and producer Samantha Strauss, the woman behind Apple Cider Vinegar and Nine Perfect strangers, has been tasked with bringing the novel to life. Other than the fact that it is being filmed in Ireland, Keyes says she can't share much else, especially not about the casting. 'I'll get into too much trouble,' she adds. You can listen back to this conversation with Marian Keyes, recorded live from Kildare Village in the player above, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was recorded as part of The Women's Podcast Live Book Club summer reads event. You can check out the full list of summer reading recommendations from the event here.
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
Which Labubu Are You?
From Pop Mart shelves to your heart, Labubu is the collectible creature everyone's talking about and trust us, there's one that will speak to your chic Labubu might be tiny, but the fandom? Huge. With mischievous grins, tiny fangs, and more outfits than a runway model, these Pop Mart collectibles have taken over social media shelves – and our hearts. But with so many Labubus out there, it's time to ask the real question: which Labubu are you? We've rounded up some of the most iconic editions from the The Monsters universe to help you find your Labubu twin. Scroll, relate, and maybe even… shop? You don't just dress up – you show up. Effortless glamour is your thing, and people low-key study your outfits like it's a masterclass. If your vibe is 'quiet luxury but make it loud,' this Labubu is your spirit twin. Statement pieces? Always. Main character energy? Absolutely. Time to Chill Labubu You're the main character in your own wellness journal. Your weekends involve lavender tea, dreamy playlists, and cloud-watching from your sun-drenched window. Emotional support water bottle? Always full. This is your cosy-soft alter ego. You're always three moves ahead – witty, strategic, and dressed like every day is a mind game worth winning. Whether it's in love, work, or weekend plans, you're effortlessly cool and a little mysterious. You don't just play the game – you are the game. You're earthy, grounded, and have a soft spot for the in-between seasons. Think chunky knits, autumn playlists, and a Pinterest board filled with crunchy leaves and slow living inspiration. You're introspective but adventurous – the friend who always brings the snacks and the soul talk on long walks. Bubbly, fizzy, and impossible not to love. You are the refreshing break everyone needs. You make people feel seen and understood. You're the type who's never more than two messages away and always knows the best memes and places to eat. Wings of Fantasy Labubu You're a soft dreamer with a cosmic twist. With iridescent wings and a glowy vibe, you live in your own world – floating through life with kindness, curiosity, and a bit of sparkle. Fantasy isn't an escape for you – it's a lifestyle. Best of Luck Labubu You're the walking good vibes charm. You radiate optimism and always find the silver lining. You're the one people turn to before big moments – interviews, exams, first dates, because your energy screams 'You've got this!' If you believe in vibes (and spontaneous luck), this one's your spirit animal. Angel in Clouds Labubu You're the softie with sparkle. With your head in the clouds and heart full of gold, you move through life like a peaceful daydream – but don't mistake your sweetness for weakness. You've mastered the art of floating above drama while keeping your halo just slightly tilted. Chaotic good in the best way possible. You're spontaneous friend who's fun, and constantly switching things up – hair colours, weekend plans, playlists. With rollerblades on and a carefree grin, you're all about chasing freedom, good vibes, and golden hour adventures. I Found You Labubu You're the sweet, slightly mysterious forest wanderer. With sparkly eyes and soft energy, you're all about soulful connections, serendipitous run-ins, and leaving a little magic wherever you go. You believe some people are meant to cross paths, and you're the proof. Dress Be Latte Labubu You're the human version of a perfectly crafted iced latte; cool, collected, and totally addictive. You've got a thing for café dates, chic cake, and being effortlessly aesthetic. Friends come to you for comfort and caffeine, and your go-to accessory is a vibe. The world of Labubu is wide, weird, and wonderfully weird. So if one of these little monsters spoke to your soul, join the fun. Claim your match, own your weird, and let your Labubu flag fly high.
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Gladiators star 'signs up for Strictly Come Dancing' after impressing BBC bosses during Christmas special
A Gladiators star has signed up for this year's Strictly Come Dancing, after 'impressing' BBC producers on the Christmas special. The superhuman, 36, took part in last year's festive edition and was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu. Nitro, whose real name is Harry Aikines Aryeetey, has reportedly agreed to appear on the regular series this autumn. A show insider told The Sun how the ex-Olympian had been on bosses' wish list for some time now. The said: 'Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. 'They were in talks last year but couldn't get the timings to marry up with his work. 'He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in lycra and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing. 'The Gladiators' fanbase is growing and kids love them so he'll be a hit with younger viewers, too.' MailOnline has contacted Nitro's rep and the BBC. Nitro previously hinted at a role in the main series when he revealed he would be taking part in the Christmas special with an injury. He told The Mirror: 'I am carrying an injury to some degree. It's been quite tough. I'm not my full self. Hopefully that's taken into consideration. But at the same time, I'm just here for a good time. I can dance, I can enjoy myself, that's the most important thing. 'Although I think we're going to do well and although I think we're going to have fun with it, it would be nice to do myself 100% justice by competing another time on the main series. 'It would be good to be in a position where I can show my ultimate self. I've got the bug. If the opportunity arises… it's abut being in an arena and learning a new skill. If the opportunity arises, I would jump at it, literally because I'll be able to jump by then.' Earlier this year Strictly Come Dancing confirmed the professional lineup for 2025. Dianne Buswell, who lifted the glitter ball in December with Chris McCausland, will be joining Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Jowita Przystal in returning to the dance floor this September. Amy Dowden, who pulled out in the opening weeks of last year's show due to a foot injury, will also be back on Strictly for 2025, as will Carlos Gu and Kai Widdrington, who didn't have a celebrity partner last year. Despite rumours that he might be making a return after missing out on last year's series, Giovanni Pernice will not be heading back to the ballroom this time around. Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios said : 'The excitement is already building ahead of the new series and in addition to welcoming back our fantastic returning Pros, we are looking forward to welcoming two brand new Professional Dancers to the line up who will help bring another unforgettable series of dazzling dance and loads more besides to viewers later in 2025.'
The Sun
13-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Big high street chain selling Halloween goodies four months early – and shoppers are divided
A MAJOR high street chain has already started selling Halloween items, and shoppers aren't sure what to make of it. Shelves at TK Maxx have been stocked with Halloween tea towels, cushions, blankets and plush toys - a huge four months before the spooky holiday. 4 4 4 Shoppers pointed out that it hasn't even been the summer yet, and Brits are basking in up to 28C heat today. But if you head into TK Maxx, things are looking very autumnal. One shopper shared pictures of Halloween items on the shelves in the retailer's Doncaster store, saying: "It's starting." Others chimed in to say they'd also seen Halloween products in the stores in Preston and Oldham. Another post sharing a video of all the new products has racked up more than 2,500 likes and 1,200 comments. autumn things ….. jeeeez way too early !!" Another said: "Wooow really getting earlier and earlier every year huh!! will start seeing xmas stuff next week no doubt." A third person said: "Its june!!!! this is far too early." But others were happier to see the spooky items on shelves. One joked: "You call it Halloween i call it home decor." I found my Christmas presents in the BIN - I've saved nearly £16k on TK Maxx buys & even got my tree from a skip Another person said to their friend: "We need to go back to TKMAXX!!!!" Shops have been putting out their holiday stocks even earlier in recent years. Some experts have said the growth of online shopping has meant traditional retailers are trying to extend the holiday season to compete. It's also because they have boosted profits during holiday seasons as shoppers spend more. Shops have been putting out their holiday stocks even earlier in recent years. Some experts have said the growth of online shopping has meant traditional retailers are trying to extend the holiday season to compete. It's also because they have boosted profits during holiday seasons as shoppers spend more. Charlotte Harrington, the manager at Summerhill's Garden Centre in Basildon, Essex, previously told The Sun that they open their Christmas department on the August bank holiday. "The stock comes in early and we gradually start putting it out on the shop floor. This is just a small fraction of what we have," she said. "But our Christmas displays are so spectacular it takes time to get everything set up, so we have to start early." Putting out holiday decorations too early can put off customers, though. Last year shoppers complained when B&M launched its Christmas range in the middle of August. They also reacted when Morrisons, Tesco and B&M put y. How Does TK Maxx Flog Designer for Cheap? TK Maxx follows an off-price business model to get designer products for cheap It buys merchandise from various brands and designers at a discount and then sells it to customers at lower prices than traditional retail stores The selection at its outlets often includes overstocked items, last season's styles and goods from cancelled orders. The Gold Label is a premium collection of designer and luxury products offered by TK Maxx. If you love designer clothes, this is the tag you want to look out for on pieces.
The Guardian
13-06-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Benjamina Ebuehi's recipe for cherry and honeycomb cheesecake pots
Honeycomb gets lots of attention in the autumn months, but this crunchy brittle is such fun to make all year round, and adds a playful texture to all sorts of desserts such as today's cheesecake pots. The quantities make more honeycomb than you need here, but extra snacking is inevitable. The cheesecake itself, which I've lightened with greek yoghurt, is super-simple to put together – just mix and chill. Prep 5 minCool 1 hr Cook 30 min Makes 6 For the honeycomb200g caster sugar 200g golden syrup 2½ tsp bicarbonate of soda For the cherries255g pitted cherries, fresh or frozen and defrosted30g caster sugar Squeeze of lemon juice For the cheesecake150g digestive biscuits 50g salted butter, melted330g greek yoghurt 250g cream cheese 1 tsp vanilla bean paste 50g icing sugar 100ml double cream Line a 20cm square cake tin with greaseproof paper. Put the sugar and golden syrup in a deep saucepan and heat gently until the sugar melts. Turn up the heat, let the mixture come to a boil, and heat to 150C on a sugar thermometer. Take off the heat, tip in the bicarb, then stir quickly and thoroughly with a rubber spatula or whisk until well incorporated (be very careful, because the boiling-hot mixture will bubble up). Carefully pour the hot honeycomb into the lined tin, leave it to sit for an hour or so to firm up, then break into rough chunks. Put the cherries, sugar and lemon juice in a small saucepan, heat gently until it comes to a boil, then turn down to a simmer and cook for three to five minutes, until the mix turns syrupy. Take off the heat and leave to cool completely. To make the cheesecakes, blitz the biscuits and a quarter of the honeycomb in a food processor, then stir in the melted butter. Divide the mixture evenly between six ramekins, lightly press it down, then chill in the fridge while you make the filling. Whisk the yoghurt, cream cheese, vanilla and icing sugar in a bowl until smooth. In a second bowl, lightly whip the double cream to soft peaks. Fold this into the yoghurt mixture, then spoon on top of the biscuit base in the ramekins. To serve, top with some cherries, decorate with more honeycomb shards (they'll start to soften over time) and take to the table immediately.
