Omid Djalili Launches Production Outfit
British actor-comedian Omid Djalili has launched a TV, film and podcast production company. The star of The Infidel is forging Tiny Speck Productions with Infidel producer Shahin Sobhani and his “family of creatives” including producers Ara Devine, Isabella Djalili-Devine, and Louis Djalili. The company already has a scripted campus comedy series, a climate-related feature film, podcasts, and a feature documentary in development, it said. “My family and I have been working together for years, and we thought it would make sense to formalise it,” said Djalili. “I’ve always believed that when we are laughing our brains work better – we see things more clearly and feel better able to handle life’s difficult questions. It’s something we need in the world, now more than ever.” Djalili is a well-known British comedian who is a regular on the stand-up circuit and has also starred in the likes of Gladiator,...
British actor-comedian Omid Djalili has launched a TV, film and podcast production company. The star of The Infidel is forging Tiny Speck Productions with Infidel producer Shahin Sobhani and his “family of creatives” including producers Ara Devine, Isabella Djalili-Devine, and Louis Djalili. The company already has a scripted campus comedy series, a climate-related feature film, podcasts, and a feature documentary in development, it said. “My family and I have been working together for years, and we thought it would make sense to formalise it,” said Djalili. “I’ve always believed that when we are laughing our brains work better – we see things more clearly and feel better able to handle life’s difficult questions. It’s something we need in the world, now more than ever.” Djalili is a well-known British comedian who is a regular on the stand-up circuit and has also starred in the likes of Gladiator,...
- 1/19/2024
- by Max Goldbart and Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
After stepping down as working royals in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle moved to America. Once they settled in the U.S., the Sussexes fired a barrage of verbal grenades at Harry’s relatives during TV interviews, podcasts, their Netflix docuseries, and Harry’s memoir Spare.
Meanwhile, the Palace left most of the accusations against the royals go unchallenged by sticking to the family’s “dignified silence” strategy. But now Prince Harry’s stepmother Queen Camilla (formerly Camilla Parker Bowles), who was attacked in the duke’s book, has launched a new project that an expert says is the “perfect revenge” for her.
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Camilla Parker Bowles (now Queen Camilla) attend Royal Ascot Day 2018 | Chris Jackson/Getty Images What Queen Camilla is doing now that Prince Harry and Meghan won’t be happy about
In December 2023, it was announced that Queen Camilla would be launching her...
Meanwhile, the Palace left most of the accusations against the royals go unchallenged by sticking to the family’s “dignified silence” strategy. But now Prince Harry’s stepmother Queen Camilla (formerly Camilla Parker Bowles), who was attacked in the duke’s book, has launched a new project that an expert says is the “perfect revenge” for her.
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Camilla Parker Bowles (now Queen Camilla) attend Royal Ascot Day 2018 | Chris Jackson/Getty Images What Queen Camilla is doing now that Prince Harry and Meghan won’t be happy about
In December 2023, it was announced that Queen Camilla would be launching her...
- 1/11/2024
- by Michelle Kapusta
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Queen Camilla is entering the podcast space like other royals before her. The 76-year-old British royal is debuting “The Queen’s Reading Room” podcast in 2024 as a companion to her Reading Room charity and book club. What to expect on the podcast, from guests and topics to the premiere date and where to listen, ahead.
Queen Camilla announced her ‘Reading Room’ podcast on Dec. 15
On Dec. 15, 2023, Queen Camilla announced her newest venture, podcasting. She’s launching a new podcast series through her Reading Room charity, which started as an Instagram book club in 2021 with recommendations from the queen as well as guest curators. (Camilla’s a well-known fan of curling up with a good book.)
Queen Camilla’s co-hosting the podcast alongside the charity’s CEO, Vicki Perrin. Together, they’ll talk to authors and celebrity guests. (More on those later.)
According to podcast’s description accompanying its trailer, “Authors...
Queen Camilla announced her ‘Reading Room’ podcast on Dec. 15
On Dec. 15, 2023, Queen Camilla announced her newest venture, podcasting. She’s launching a new podcast series through her Reading Room charity, which started as an Instagram book club in 2021 with recommendations from the queen as well as guest curators. (Camilla’s a well-known fan of curling up with a good book.)
Queen Camilla’s co-hosting the podcast alongside the charity’s CEO, Vicki Perrin. Together, they’ll talk to authors and celebrity guests. (More on those later.)
According to podcast’s description accompanying its trailer, “Authors...
- 12/23/2023
- by Mandi Kerr
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
A string of high-profile figures from the entertainment world attended a march against antisemitism on the streets of London yesterday, in what is thought to be the biggest rally of its kind for nearly 90 years.
The likes of Maureen Lipman, Eddie Marsan and It’s a Sin star Tracy Ann-Oberman were at the march, which is reported to have attracted more than 100,000 people. Others who attended included former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie Johnson, Countdown host Rachel Riley and comedian David Baddiel. Marsan, Baddiel and Riley were amongst those who addressed the crowds.
Organized by the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA), the rally took place to counter heightened concerns over antisemitism among Jewish communities in multiple European countries since the attack on October 7 by Hamas on Israel – which saw the kidnap of 200 civilians and killing of around 1,400 – and the war that has followed.
There was a 1,300% increase in antisemitic...
The likes of Maureen Lipman, Eddie Marsan and It’s a Sin star Tracy Ann-Oberman were at the march, which is reported to have attracted more than 100,000 people. Others who attended included former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie Johnson, Countdown host Rachel Riley and comedian David Baddiel. Marsan, Baddiel and Riley were amongst those who addressed the crowds.
Organized by the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA), the rally took place to counter heightened concerns over antisemitism among Jewish communities in multiple European countries since the attack on October 7 by Hamas on Israel – which saw the kidnap of 200 civilians and killing of around 1,400 – and the war that has followed.
There was a 1,300% increase in antisemitic...
- 11/27/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Animated feature, based on Michel Kichka’s autobiographical graphic novel, explores the legacy of genocide from a sideways angle
Adapted from Second Generation, an autobiographical graphic novel (perhaps the genre should be termed “autobiographic novel”?) by Michel Kichka, this animated feature explores the legacy of the Holocaust from a somewhat sideways angle. Kichka’s father Henri was a survivor of Auschwitz, but when the story starts in the late 1950s-early 1960s, Henri is a tamped-down, closed-off character who keeps the office, like his memories, locked up and unshared with his five children. In a pastel-coloured Belgian town, Michel is first met as an adolescent, voiced by Ilan Galkoff although narration by the older Michel (David Baddiel) comments on the action throughout. Barely aware of what happened during the war except that it was something bad dad doesn’t talk about, Michel and younger brother Charley (Skye Bennett) go to synagogue...
Adapted from Second Generation, an autobiographical graphic novel (perhaps the genre should be termed “autobiographic novel”?) by Michel Kichka, this animated feature explores the legacy of the Holocaust from a somewhat sideways angle. Kichka’s father Henri was a survivor of Auschwitz, but when the story starts in the late 1950s-early 1960s, Henri is a tamped-down, closed-off character who keeps the office, like his memories, locked up and unshared with his five children. In a pastel-coloured Belgian town, Michel is first met as an adolescent, voiced by Ilan Galkoff although narration by the older Michel (David Baddiel) comments on the action throughout. Barely aware of what happened during the war except that it was something bad dad doesn’t talk about, Michel and younger brother Charley (Skye Bennett) go to synagogue...
- 11/22/2023
- by Leslie Felperin
- The Guardian - Film News
No hostage left behind.
So many of your favorite stars have come together to thank President Biden for his efforts in working to peace amid the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Amid the news that two American hostages and two Israeli hostages have been released from captivity, Hollywood heavyweights are hoping for the safe return of the 220 innocent people who are still being held hostage by Hamas.
“We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity,” the letter read.
The letter continued, “But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, remain captive by terrorists, threatened with torture and death. They were taken by Hamas in the savage massacre of October 7, where over 1,400 Israelis were slaughtered – women raped, families burned alive,...
So many of your favorite stars have come together to thank President Biden for his efforts in working to peace amid the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Amid the news that two American hostages and two Israeli hostages have been released from captivity, Hollywood heavyweights are hoping for the safe return of the 220 innocent people who are still being held hostage by Hamas.
“We are heartened by Friday’s release of the two American hostages, Judith Ranaan and her daughter Natalie Ranaan and by today’s release of two Israelis, Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, whose husbands remain in captivity,” the letter read.
The letter continued, “But our relief is tempered by our overwhelming concern that 220 innocent people, including 30 children, remain captive by terrorists, threatened with torture and death. They were taken by Hamas in the savage massacre of October 7, where over 1,400 Israelis were slaughtered – women raped, families burned alive,...
- 10/24/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Exclusive: The UK Jewish Film Festival (November 9 – 22) has revealed its lineup of 2023 gala screenings and premieres, including special presentations of the Anthony Hopkins pic One Life and Mario Bellochi’s Cannes competition title Kidnapped.
One Life, directed by James Hawes, will open the festival. The pic tells the true-life story of Nicholas Winton, a British stockbroker and son of German-Jewish parents, who, after being horrified by tales of refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied Sudetenland, sets off for Prague and begins to find ways to bring out as many refugee children as possible. Aided by his formidable mother, Barbara (Helena Bonham Carter), and a coterie of dedicated activists, their seemingly impossible mission faces daunting obstacles in this inspiring true story of hope and determination. James Hawes will be present on the night to introduce his film.
Mario Bellochi’s Kidnapped will screen at the festival’s centerpiece gala. The film tells the true...
One Life, directed by James Hawes, will open the festival. The pic tells the true-life story of Nicholas Winton, a British stockbroker and son of German-Jewish parents, who, after being horrified by tales of refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied Sudetenland, sets off for Prague and begins to find ways to bring out as many refugee children as possible. Aided by his formidable mother, Barbara (Helena Bonham Carter), and a coterie of dedicated activists, their seemingly impossible mission faces daunting obstacles in this inspiring true story of hope and determination. James Hawes will be present on the night to introduce his film.
Mario Bellochi’s Kidnapped will screen at the festival’s centerpiece gala. The film tells the true...
- 9/22/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, is in the midst of controversy following her less-than-favorable remarks about comedian Frank Skinner’s performance. Her blunt criticisms, uncharacteristic of the royal family, have sparked quite a debate and, surprisingly, even an apology letter from the Duchess herself.
With Sophie in damage control mode, here’s a look at the details of the Duchess’s “awkward” comments and her subsequent apology.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, with Ian Broudie, David Baddiel and Frank Skinner | David Parry – Wpa Pool/Getty Images Duchess Sophie finds herself in the hot seat after ‘awkward’ comments
Sophie attracted a wave of critique when she attended Skinner’s performance, Three Lions. Apparently, the Duchess was not a fan of the comedian’s act and wasn’t afraid to tell him about it.
According to Hello Magazine, Skinner’s memory of his interaction with Sophie post-show was notably uneasy. Skinner had anticipated standard praises from the royal,...
With Sophie in damage control mode, here’s a look at the details of the Duchess’s “awkward” comments and her subsequent apology.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, with Ian Broudie, David Baddiel and Frank Skinner | David Parry – Wpa Pool/Getty Images Duchess Sophie finds herself in the hot seat after ‘awkward’ comments
Sophie attracted a wave of critique when she attended Skinner’s performance, Three Lions. Apparently, the Duchess was not a fan of the comedian’s act and wasn’t afraid to tell him about it.
According to Hello Magazine, Skinner’s memory of his interaction with Sophie post-show was notably uneasy. Skinner had anticipated standard praises from the royal,...
- 8/1/2023
- by Perry Carpenter
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Guy Nattiv’s ‘Golda’, about the former Israeli prime minister’, opens the festival this evening.
A Barbie figure of former Israeli prime minister Golda Meir would be a good idea, according to Helen Mirren, who stars in both Jerusalem Film Festival (Jff) opening title Golda and narrates Warner Bros’ upcoming blockbuster Barbie.
Speaking at a press conference for Golda ahead of the Jff opening ceremony this evening, Mirren addressed the contemporary relevance of Meir, who died in 1978.
“If you’re talking about the history of feminism and women in power, Golda is an interesting example in that she had immense...
A Barbie figure of former Israeli prime minister Golda Meir would be a good idea, according to Helen Mirren, who stars in both Jerusalem Film Festival (Jff) opening title Golda and narrates Warner Bros’ upcoming blockbuster Barbie.
Speaking at a press conference for Golda ahead of the Jff opening ceremony this evening, Mirren addressed the contemporary relevance of Meir, who died in 1978.
“If you’re talking about the history of feminism and women in power, Golda is an interesting example in that she had immense...
- 7/13/2023
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Warning: contains, well, would you call them spoilers? Anyway, those.
Taskmaster’s weekly prize task involves each contestant bringing in an item that responds to the same prompt (Most Powerful Smell/Best Chair/Most Important Document…) in the hope of winning the lot at the end of the episode. It’s the first task of every show, a chance for the comedians to land a punchline early doors, and points-wise, to bag what series 15 runner-up Ivo Graham might refer to as “a Sweet Five”.
All that time to plan the perfect response! What a boon for swots and “Be Prepared” types, you might think. Sometimes. And sometimes not. The capricious nature of the Taskmaster’s scoring logic often finds painstakingly honed prize task entries sent away with a single point while zero-thought efforts delivered with conviction sail off with the big money. And by big money, we mean framed photographs of Frankie Boyle’s children,...
Taskmaster’s weekly prize task involves each contestant bringing in an item that responds to the same prompt (Most Powerful Smell/Best Chair/Most Important Document…) in the hope of winning the lot at the end of the episode. It’s the first task of every show, a chance for the comedians to land a punchline early doors, and points-wise, to bag what series 15 runner-up Ivo Graham might refer to as “a Sweet Five”.
All that time to plan the perfect response! What a boon for swots and “Be Prepared” types, you might think. Sometimes. And sometimes not. The capricious nature of the Taskmaster’s scoring logic often finds painstakingly honed prize task entries sent away with a single point while zero-thought efforts delivered with conviction sail off with the big money. And by big money, we mean framed photographs of Frankie Boyle’s children,...
- 6/13/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
It was the big question. When the Junior Taskmaster spin-off was announced back in March with new hosts welcoming the nation’s children to complete a series of absurd and pointless challenges, who would be sitting in the golden thrones? A new Taskmaster was required, along with a new Taskmaster’s assistant. One had to be masterful and imperious, the other detail-oriented and servile, and crucially, they both had to be good with kids.
The answer: series nine and 11 contestants Rose Matafeo and Mike Wozniak! Matafeo will be taking the Junior Taskmaster role scoring the young contestants’ efforts, with Wozniak providing admin-based support in the studio and on-site child wrangling during tasks as the Junior Taskmaster’s Assistant.
Matafeo came second in her series of Taskmaster, in which she competed against winner Ed Gamble (now the host of the show’s official podcast), and fellow not-winners David Baddiel, Katy Wix and Jo Brand.
The answer: series nine and 11 contestants Rose Matafeo and Mike Wozniak! Matafeo will be taking the Junior Taskmaster role scoring the young contestants’ efforts, with Wozniak providing admin-based support in the studio and on-site child wrangling during tasks as the Junior Taskmaster’s Assistant.
Matafeo came second in her series of Taskmaster, in which she competed against winner Ed Gamble (now the host of the show’s official podcast), and fellow not-winners David Baddiel, Katy Wix and Jo Brand.
- 5/16/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Filmmaker Joe Weiland’s directorial debut Gorka is a short comedy drama about Gorka, a French exchange student who has arrived in the UK to see what England has to offer. Quickly, however, upon his arrival, his plans of exploration are pushed to the wayside as the English family he’s been partnered with experience a major tragedy. It’s from here on out that Weiland’s film takes off and his portrayal of the importance of human connection during strange, dysfunctional times begins. Weiland brings a buoyant Britishness to his short, which showcases the title character’s world through bright-coloured, open frames as he takes in the odd seaside environment that is Bognor Regis. As the film sets sail for its festival run, which kicks off with the Oscar-qualifying Provincetown Film Festival, Dn caught up with Weiland to talk over the personal genesis of the short, his background studying screenwriting at AFI,...
- 5/8/2023
- by James Maitre
- Directors Notes
Hugh Grant was spotted hugging fans at the Berlin premiere of Dungeon and Dragons following an “awkward” Oscars interview with Ashley Graham earlier this month.
The 62-year-old British actor went viral for his responses during an Oscars red carpet interview with Graham.
Graham had asked Grant if he was excited by the prospect of any particular actors winning at the Academy Awards, to which he replied: “No, not one in particular.”
Next, Graham asked: “Ok, well what are you wearing tonight, then?”
In response, the actor said: “Just my suit.”
Graham then asked Grant about the Knives Out sequel Glass Onion.
“So tell me what was it like to be in Glass Onion?” she asked, adding: “It was such an amazing film. I really loved it. How is it to shoot something like that?”
Grant said: “Well, I’m barely in it. I’m in it for about three seconds.
The 62-year-old British actor went viral for his responses during an Oscars red carpet interview with Graham.
Graham had asked Grant if he was excited by the prospect of any particular actors winning at the Academy Awards, to which he replied: “No, not one in particular.”
Next, Graham asked: “Ok, well what are you wearing tonight, then?”
In response, the actor said: “Just my suit.”
Graham then asked Grant about the Knives Out sequel Glass Onion.
“So tell me what was it like to be in Glass Onion?” she asked, adding: “It was such an amazing film. I really loved it. How is it to shoot something like that?”
Grant said: “Well, I’m barely in it. I’m in it for about three seconds.
- 3/24/2023
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Film
Following in the footsteps of Bake-Off and MasterChef, entertainment juggernaut Taskmaster is launching a kids’ version. Junior Taskmaster will be coming to Channel 4 alongside six brand new series of the original show, due to air over the next three years. That’s what you call a good comedy harvest.
While Greg Davies and Alex Horne will remain in their golden thrones for the grown-up show, a brand new Taskmaster and assistant will be setting challenges and monitoring the child cohort. Their names will be announced in due course. Might we expect a past contestant or two to be taking the reins? James Acaster, with his history of cabbage-based vendettas against children, would be a solid fit for the big chair, while Judi Love could school the kids valuably in twisting the facts to their advantage.
Due to a distinct shortage of professional comedians aged nine to 11, the child contestants...
While Greg Davies and Alex Horne will remain in their golden thrones for the grown-up show, a brand new Taskmaster and assistant will be setting challenges and monitoring the child cohort. Their names will be announced in due course. Might we expect a past contestant or two to be taking the reins? James Acaster, with his history of cabbage-based vendettas against children, would be a solid fit for the big chair, while Judi Love could school the kids valuably in twisting the facts to their advantage.
Due to a distinct shortage of professional comedians aged nine to 11, the child contestants...
- 3/15/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Paul Sorvino’s family have called out the Academy Awards for not including the Goodfellas star in its “In Memoriam” segment.
During the ceremony on Sunday (12 March), Lenny Kravitz performed “Calling All Angels” as a screen behind him showed a montage of notable figures from the world of film who have died in the past year.
These included Olivia Newton John, Ray Liotta, Angela Lansbury, Jean-Luc Godard and Irene Cara.
Other stars to be featured in the segment were Burt Bacharach, Nichelle Nichols, Kirstie Alley and Racquel Welch.
Noticeably missing from the tribute was Paul Sorvino, the character actor and opera singer known for his menacing performances in movies such as Goodfellas, The Gambler, and Romeo + Juliet.
The actor died of natural causes in July 2022 at the age of 83.
After the awards show, Sorvino’s eldest daughter, actor Mira Sorvino, tweeted: “I for one am remembering Dad on this Oscars night…...
During the ceremony on Sunday (12 March), Lenny Kravitz performed “Calling All Angels” as a screen behind him showed a montage of notable figures from the world of film who have died in the past year.
These included Olivia Newton John, Ray Liotta, Angela Lansbury, Jean-Luc Godard and Irene Cara.
Other stars to be featured in the segment were Burt Bacharach, Nichelle Nichols, Kirstie Alley and Racquel Welch.
Noticeably missing from the tribute was Paul Sorvino, the character actor and opera singer known for his menacing performances in movies such as Goodfellas, The Gambler, and Romeo + Juliet.
The actor died of natural causes in July 2022 at the age of 83.
After the awards show, Sorvino’s eldest daughter, actor Mira Sorvino, tweeted: “I for one am remembering Dad on this Oscars night…...
- 3/14/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Model and TV personality Christine McGuinness has discussed the sexual abuse she suffered as a child in her new documentary, Unmasking My Autism.
For the show, which airs on BBC One on Wednesday 15 March, McGuinness spoke to specialists, who told her that many women with autism have experienced domestic or sexual violence in relationships.
“I experienced that and I didn’t speak up, and I wonder if I never said it because I was autistic,” McGuinness, who was diagnosed with the condition in 2021, said. “Was it me? Would a neurotypical woman have said something? Is it my fault? How did I find myself there? All of those questions.
“It’s something I experienced when I was a teenager, and then when I met my husband [Take Me Out presenter Paddy McGuinness], that was a time where I felt very safe and I wonder that’s why I stayed in that relationship for 15 years.
For the show, which airs on BBC One on Wednesday 15 March, McGuinness spoke to specialists, who told her that many women with autism have experienced domestic or sexual violence in relationships.
“I experienced that and I didn’t speak up, and I wonder if I never said it because I was autistic,” McGuinness, who was diagnosed with the condition in 2021, said. “Was it me? Would a neurotypical woman have said something? Is it my fault? How did I find myself there? All of those questions.
“It’s something I experienced when I was a teenager, and then when I met my husband [Take Me Out presenter Paddy McGuinness], that was a time where I felt very safe and I wonder that’s why I stayed in that relationship for 15 years.
- 3/13/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
‘Social media has become a scolding machine’: David Baddiel defends Hugh Grant over Oscars interview
David Baddiel has weighed in after Hugh Grant was called out on social media for what some called “obnoxious” behaviour on the Oscars red carpet.
The actor, known for his dry sense of humour, was interviewed by model Ashley Graham, at the ceremony last night (12 March).
Graham did not seem prepared for Grant’s very short answers to questions about the Knives Out franchise and what he was wearing to the event.
Posting on Twitter on Monday 13 March, comedian Baddiel wrote: “Those on here having a go at Hugh Grant for being rude on the Oscars red carpet have perhaps mixed up the word rude with the word real.”
He added: “Those piling on to him reveal, again, how much social media has become a scolding machine.
“All Grant does is respond naturally to the questions, but the opportunity is seen to tell him off, and therefore to say, underneath...
The actor, known for his dry sense of humour, was interviewed by model Ashley Graham, at the ceremony last night (12 March).
Graham did not seem prepared for Grant’s very short answers to questions about the Knives Out franchise and what he was wearing to the event.
Posting on Twitter on Monday 13 March, comedian Baddiel wrote: “Those on here having a go at Hugh Grant for being rude on the Oscars red carpet have perhaps mixed up the word rude with the word real.”
He added: “Those piling on to him reveal, again, how much social media has become a scolding machine.
“All Grant does is respond naturally to the questions, but the opportunity is seen to tell him off, and therefore to say, underneath...
- 3/13/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Prince Edward‘s wife Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh (formerly the Countess of Wessex) was often referred to as the late Queen Elizabeth II‘s favorite daughter-in-law and one of her most loyal in-laws. Sophie flew under the radar for a long time until she and her husband jumped in to help the family by picking up more engagements after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped down as working royals. At the end of 2022, Sophie and Edward were the guests of honor at the annual Royal Variety Performance. But when the couple met with the entertainers backstage, one performer said he had an “awkward” encounter with the now-duchess because of her blunt comments about how he did.
Here’s more on that and what Sophie did following her harsh critique.
Prince Edward and Sophie attend the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert | David Parry – Wpa Pool/Getty Images What Skinner...
Here’s more on that and what Sophie did following her harsh critique.
Prince Edward and Sophie attend the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert | David Parry – Wpa Pool/Getty Images What Skinner...
- 3/11/2023
- by Michelle Kapusta
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Guy Nattiv defends choosing actor to play the former Israeli prime minister in a new biopic, amid debate about 'authentic casting’
Helen Mirren ducked a question at the Berlin film festival as to whether it had been appropriate to cast her as former Israeli prime minister Golda Meir in a feature drama during a promotion event ahead of the film’s world premiere.
Having faced criticism for taking on the role amid a debate about authentic casting, with leading British Jews such as Maureen Lipman and David Baddiel suggesting Jewish roles should be reserved for Jewish actors, Mirren turned to her director, Guy Nattiv, to respond to the question from The Guardian.
Helen Mirren ducked a question at the Berlin film festival as to whether it had been appropriate to cast her as former Israeli prime minister Golda Meir in a feature drama during a promotion event ahead of the film’s world premiere.
Having faced criticism for taking on the role amid a debate about authentic casting, with leading British Jews such as Maureen Lipman and David Baddiel suggesting Jewish roles should be reserved for Jewish actors, Mirren turned to her director, Guy Nattiv, to respond to the question from The Guardian.
- 2/20/2023
- by Kate Connolly in Berlin
- The Guardian - Film News
Mirren’s casting as Israeli prime minister Golda Meir ignited debate over non-Jewish people playing Jewish roles.
Golda director Guy Nattiv has addressed the debate around the casting of non-Jews in Jewish roles, saying ahead of the film’s Berlinale world premiere that UK actor Mirren has “got the Jewish chops to portray Golda”.
Mirren, who is not Jewish, plays Israel’s only female prime minister, Golda Meir, as she leads her country through the Yom Kippur War of 1973, a conflict between Israel and a coalition of Arab states led by Egypt and Syria.
In the UK, the likes of...
Golda director Guy Nattiv has addressed the debate around the casting of non-Jews in Jewish roles, saying ahead of the film’s Berlinale world premiere that UK actor Mirren has “got the Jewish chops to portray Golda”.
Mirren, who is not Jewish, plays Israel’s only female prime minister, Golda Meir, as she leads her country through the Yom Kippur War of 1973, a conflict between Israel and a coalition of Arab states led by Egypt and Syria.
In the UK, the likes of...
- 2/20/2023
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Frank Skinner has explained why he longer wishes to be on TV.
The comedian, who had his own BBC One chat show in the 1990s, which moved to ITV from 1999 to 2005, said he thinks “radio and podcasts is the place for me” during a new interview.
Skinner was responding to a question that asked him whetherhe was happiest “on stage, radio or telly”.
“I’m 66 now,” he told Metro.co.uk. “I think the human face gets quite hard to look at when you get to about 60 onwards. So I think probably radio and podcasts is the place for me.”
He continued: “Plus, I like not having to shave.”
Skinner has been a fixture on TV screens for three decades now, with appearances on comedy shows, Room 101, Have I Got News For You and Taskmaster.
In 2014, he appeared alongside Peter Capaldi in an episode of Doctor Who.
He currently...
The comedian, who had his own BBC One chat show in the 1990s, which moved to ITV from 1999 to 2005, said he thinks “radio and podcasts is the place for me” during a new interview.
Skinner was responding to a question that asked him whetherhe was happiest “on stage, radio or telly”.
“I’m 66 now,” he told Metro.co.uk. “I think the human face gets quite hard to look at when you get to about 60 onwards. So I think probably radio and podcasts is the place for me.”
He continued: “Plus, I like not having to shave.”
Skinner has been a fixture on TV screens for three decades now, with appearances on comedy shows, Room 101, Have I Got News For You and Taskmaster.
In 2014, he appeared alongside Peter Capaldi in an episode of Doctor Who.
He currently...
- 2/16/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Controversial podcast host Joe Rogan is once again receiving backlash, this time for comments that critics have labelled “antisemitic”.
The Joe Rogan Experience host was discussing US Representative Ilhan Omar with his guests, Breaking Points co-hosts Krystal Ball and Saagar Enjeti, during a recent episode when he made the offending statements.
Omar was recently removed from the Foreign Affairs Committee by Republicans over accusations that she is antisemitic.
In 2019, she tweeted that Republicans wanted to condemn her comments about Israel because “It’s all about the Benjamins, baby”, a reference to Benjamin Franklin being on 100 bills. She later apologised for her comments.
“That’s not an antisemitic comment, I don’t think that is. Benjamins are money,” Rogan said on his podcast.
He continued: “The idea that Jewish people are not into money is ridiculous. That’s like saying Italians aren’t into pizza. It’s f***ing stupid.”
David Baddiel...
The Joe Rogan Experience host was discussing US Representative Ilhan Omar with his guests, Breaking Points co-hosts Krystal Ball and Saagar Enjeti, during a recent episode when he made the offending statements.
Omar was recently removed from the Foreign Affairs Committee by Republicans over accusations that she is antisemitic.
In 2019, she tweeted that Republicans wanted to condemn her comments about Israel because “It’s all about the Benjamins, baby”, a reference to Benjamin Franklin being on 100 bills. She later apologised for her comments.
“That’s not an antisemitic comment, I don’t think that is. Benjamins are money,” Rogan said on his podcast.
He continued: “The idea that Jewish people are not into money is ridiculous. That’s like saying Italians aren’t into pizza. It’s f***ing stupid.”
David Baddiel...
- 2/8/2023
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
No stranger to controversy, Joe Rogan this week offered the following generalization about Jews on his massively popular Spotify show: “The idea that Jewish people are not into money is ridiculous. That’s like saying Italians aren’t into pizza.”
Rogan was speaking to onetime MSNBC contributor Krystal Ball about Rep. Ilhan Omar’s 2019 tweet that Israel’s defenders in the U.S. were motivated solely by money.
“It’s all about the Benjamins baby,” wrote Omar at the time. The tweet drew a swift rebuke from leaders on both sides of the aisle, including then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. Omar later recanted, writing, “I unequivocally apologize.”
The Spotify host’s statements this week were part of a conversation about Rep. Adam Schiff.
“It’s crazy,” said Rogan. “Did you see him sitting next to Ilhan Omar, where she’s apologizing for talking about it’s all about the Benjamins?...
Rogan was speaking to onetime MSNBC contributor Krystal Ball about Rep. Ilhan Omar’s 2019 tweet that Israel’s defenders in the U.S. were motivated solely by money.
“It’s all about the Benjamins baby,” wrote Omar at the time. The tweet drew a swift rebuke from leaders on both sides of the aisle, including then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. Omar later recanted, writing, “I unequivocally apologize.”
The Spotify host’s statements this week were part of a conversation about Rep. Adam Schiff.
“It’s crazy,” said Rogan. “Did you see him sitting next to Ilhan Omar, where she’s apologizing for talking about it’s all about the Benjamins?...
- 2/7/2023
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Frank Skinner has received an MBE in the New Year Honours list for his services to entertainment.
The broadcaster and comedian, 65, began his career in 1987 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Skinner – whose real name is Christopher Graham Collins – returned to the festival four years later in 1991 and was feted with one of comedy’s most prestigious accolades, the Perrier Award.
Speaking to the Pa news agency, Skinner said that he has held off on telling those closest to him about his MBE in case the news turned out to be the result of “some sort of administrative error”.
“Well, to be honest, I haven’t told anyone at all, even those closest to me, because I still thought there might be some sort of administrative error,” he said.
“But I think it’s brilliant. I deal mainly in laughs and applause and they disappear into the air quite quickly. So...
The broadcaster and comedian, 65, began his career in 1987 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Skinner – whose real name is Christopher Graham Collins – returned to the festival four years later in 1991 and was feted with one of comedy’s most prestigious accolades, the Perrier Award.
Speaking to the Pa news agency, Skinner said that he has held off on telling those closest to him about his MBE in case the news turned out to be the result of “some sort of administrative error”.
“Well, to be honest, I haven’t told anyone at all, even those closest to me, because I still thought there might be some sort of administrative error,” he said.
“But I think it’s brilliant. I deal mainly in laughs and applause and they disappear into the air quite quickly. So...
- 12/30/2022
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Lee Mack poked fun at Prince Edward during his opening monologue at the Royal Variety Performance.
The stand-up comic hosted the annual celebration at the Royal Albert Hall, which was broadcast on Tuesday (20 December) and attended by the Earl and Countess of Wessex.
In his opening speech, Mack welcomed the audience to the show, before addressing Edward, who is the youngest of Queen Elizabeth II’s children.
“I’ve got three kids,” he told the audience. “The youngest is the naughtiest. It’s always the youngest that’s the trickiest, isn’t it?
“No disrespect,” he added, while the camera cut to a laughing Edward and wife Sophie Windsor.
“There goes the knighthood,” Mack added. “Wouldn’t work for me, anyway. Sir Lee – just sounds like I’m in a bad mood.”
The 2022 Royal Variety Performance is the first to be held since the death of the Queen in September.
The stand-up comic hosted the annual celebration at the Royal Albert Hall, which was broadcast on Tuesday (20 December) and attended by the Earl and Countess of Wessex.
In his opening speech, Mack welcomed the audience to the show, before addressing Edward, who is the youngest of Queen Elizabeth II’s children.
“I’ve got three kids,” he told the audience. “The youngest is the naughtiest. It’s always the youngest that’s the trickiest, isn’t it?
“No disrespect,” he added, while the camera cut to a laughing Edward and wife Sophie Windsor.
“There goes the knighthood,” Mack added. “Wouldn’t work for me, anyway. Sir Lee – just sounds like I’m in a bad mood.”
The 2022 Royal Variety Performance is the first to be held since the death of the Queen in September.
- 12/21/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Lee Mack poked fun at Prince Edward during his opening monologue at the Royal Variety Performance.
The stand-up comic hosted the annual celebration at the Royal Albert Hall, which was broadcast on Tuesday (20 December) and attended by the Earl and Countess of Wessex.
In his opening speech, Mack welcomed the audience to the show, before addressing Edward, who is the youngest of Queen Elizabeth II’s children.
“I’ve got three kids,” he told the audience. “The youngest is the naughtiest. It’s always the youngest that’s the trickiest, isn’t it?
“No disrespect,” he added, while the camera cut to a laughing Edward and wife Sophie Windsor.
“There goes the knighthood,” Mack added. “Wouldn’t work for me, anyway. Sir Lee – just sounds like I’m in a bad mood.”
The 2022 Royal Variety Performance is the first to be held since the death of the Queen in September.
The stand-up comic hosted the annual celebration at the Royal Albert Hall, which was broadcast on Tuesday (20 December) and attended by the Earl and Countess of Wessex.
In his opening speech, Mack welcomed the audience to the show, before addressing Edward, who is the youngest of Queen Elizabeth II’s children.
“I’ve got three kids,” he told the audience. “The youngest is the naughtiest. It’s always the youngest that’s the trickiest, isn’t it?
“No disrespect,” he added, while the camera cut to a laughing Edward and wife Sophie Windsor.
“There goes the knighthood,” Mack added. “Wouldn’t work for me, anyway. Sir Lee – just sounds like I’m in a bad mood.”
The 2022 Royal Variety Performance is the first to be held since the death of the Queen in September.
- 12/21/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Miriam Margolyes has opened up about the time the Queen told her to “be quiet”.
The actor is famously outspoken – in October she said “f*** you, bastard” live on Radio 4’s Today programme about chancellor Jeremy Hunt – and it turns out her bold antics didn’t go down well with the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Speaking in an interview with The Times Magazine, Margolyes said: “The Queen told me to ‘be quiet’. It shocked me because I hadn’t quite realised how rude I was being. I was waffling on when she was talking to somebody else, and I was overriding that rudely.
“But it wasn’t deliberate – I wasn’t meaning to be rude. I say what I think and I don’t care how it comes out. Sometimes it comes out in a way that people find very upsetting and offensive, and I’m sorry about that, but...
The actor is famously outspoken – in October she said “f*** you, bastard” live on Radio 4’s Today programme about chancellor Jeremy Hunt – and it turns out her bold antics didn’t go down well with the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Speaking in an interview with The Times Magazine, Margolyes said: “The Queen told me to ‘be quiet’. It shocked me because I hadn’t quite realised how rude I was being. I was waffling on when she was talking to somebody else, and I was overriding that rudely.
“But it wasn’t deliberate – I wasn’t meaning to be rude. I say what I think and I don’t care how it comes out. Sometimes it comes out in a way that people find very upsetting and offensive, and I’m sorry about that, but...
- 12/17/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Gogglebox’s latest episode concluded with a tribute to publicist Lesley Land, who has died aged 41.
The popular Channel 4 show aired a new episode on Friday 9 December, which concluded with a photo of Land.
The image was accompanied by the words: “In loving memory – Lesley Land, 1981 - 2022.”
Land worked on Gogglebox for more than eight years, along with other Channel 4 projects such as The Big Narstie Show and The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan.
She died on Friday (2 December). A cause of death was not disclosed, but Variety reports that she died “unexpectedly” at home.
In a statement at the time, Channel 4 said that everyone who worked at the broadcaster was “deeply saddened” by the news.
“Lesley was a wonderful friend, a generous colleague and made tremendous fun wherever she went,” the statement said.
“But ultimately family was at the core of Lesley’s life. Our hearts go out...
The popular Channel 4 show aired a new episode on Friday 9 December, which concluded with a photo of Land.
The image was accompanied by the words: “In loving memory – Lesley Land, 1981 - 2022.”
Land worked on Gogglebox for more than eight years, along with other Channel 4 projects such as The Big Narstie Show and The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan.
She died on Friday (2 December). A cause of death was not disclosed, but Variety reports that she died “unexpectedly” at home.
In a statement at the time, Channel 4 said that everyone who worked at the broadcaster was “deeply saddened” by the news.
“Lesley was a wonderful friend, a generous colleague and made tremendous fun wherever she went,” the statement said.
“But ultimately family was at the core of Lesley’s life. Our hearts go out...
- 12/12/2022
- by Roisin O'Connor
- The Independent - TV
Lesley Land, a longtime publicist at U.K. public broadcaster Channel 4, has died. She was 41.
Variety understands Land died unexpectedly at home last Friday.
She had worked at Channel 4 for eight years, predominantly on popular factual and entertainment. She had recently been working on comedian David Baddiel’s documentary about antisemitism, “Jews Don’t Count,” shortly before her death.
In a statement, Channel 4 said: “Everyone at Channel 4 is deeply saddened by the news that our long-standing colleague and friend, Lesley Land, passed away last Friday.”
“Lesley joined Channel 4 in 2014. She was the driving force of many of Channel 4’s most memorable press campaigns of the last decade, including ‘Gogglebox,’ ‘Baby Hospital,’ ‘The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan,’ ‘Stand Up To Cancer,’ ‘Tfi Friday,’ ‘The Big Narstie Show’ and ‘Miriam & Alan’ – delivering them all with her typical flair and panache. Her most recent project was ‘Jews Don’t Count.’ She...
Variety understands Land died unexpectedly at home last Friday.
She had worked at Channel 4 for eight years, predominantly on popular factual and entertainment. She had recently been working on comedian David Baddiel’s documentary about antisemitism, “Jews Don’t Count,” shortly before her death.
In a statement, Channel 4 said: “Everyone at Channel 4 is deeply saddened by the news that our long-standing colleague and friend, Lesley Land, passed away last Friday.”
“Lesley joined Channel 4 in 2014. She was the driving force of many of Channel 4’s most memorable press campaigns of the last decade, including ‘Gogglebox,’ ‘Baby Hospital,’ ‘The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan,’ ‘Stand Up To Cancer,’ ‘Tfi Friday,’ ‘The Big Narstie Show’ and ‘Miriam & Alan’ – delivering them all with her typical flair and panache. Her most recent project was ‘Jews Don’t Count.’ She...
- 12/8/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Channel 4 has paid tribute to the “wonderful and generous” PR exec Lesley Land, who died unexpectedly last week.
In a statement this afternoon, the channel, which employed Land for the past eight years, said it is “deeply saddened by the news that our long-standing colleague and friend has passed away.”
“She was the driving force of many of Channel 4’s most memorable press campaigns of the last decade, delivering them with flair and panache,” added the statement.
“Lesley was a wonderful friend, a generous colleague and made tremendous fun wherever she went. But ultimately family was at the core of Lesley’s life. Our hearts go out to them at this devastating time. Much loved by all who knew her, she will be sorely missed.”
Channel 4 highlighted numerous successful PR campaigns overseen by Land including on Gogglebox, Baby Hospital, The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan, Stand Up To Cancer,...
In a statement this afternoon, the channel, which employed Land for the past eight years, said it is “deeply saddened by the news that our long-standing colleague and friend has passed away.”
“She was the driving force of many of Channel 4’s most memorable press campaigns of the last decade, delivering them with flair and panache,” added the statement.
“Lesley was a wonderful friend, a generous colleague and made tremendous fun wherever she went. But ultimately family was at the core of Lesley’s life. Our hearts go out to them at this devastating time. Much loved by all who knew her, she will be sorely missed.”
Channel 4 highlighted numerous successful PR campaigns overseen by Land including on Gogglebox, Baby Hospital, The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan, Stand Up To Cancer,...
- 12/8/2022
- by Jesse Whittock and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The line-up for the 2022 Royal Variety Performance has been announced, with the annual event set to take place within days.
The event, held at London’s Royal Albert Hall, will be the first since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September.
As ever, the event is being held in aid of the Royal Variety Charity, which provides aid to those in the world of entertainment.
Previous years have seen artists including Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga and James Blunt take to the stage before the royals.
While Alan Carr has hosted proceedings for the last two years, hosting duties will this time be transferred to Not Going Out star Lee Mack.
Here’s what else we know about the event...
When is the Royal Variety Performance?
This year’s event is taking place on 1 December.
However, it will not air on TV until later in the month. The show will be shown on ITV1,...
The event, held at London’s Royal Albert Hall, will be the first since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September.
As ever, the event is being held in aid of the Royal Variety Charity, which provides aid to those in the world of entertainment.
Previous years have seen artists including Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga and James Blunt take to the stage before the royals.
While Alan Carr has hosted proceedings for the last two years, hosting duties will this time be transferred to Not Going Out star Lee Mack.
Here’s what else we know about the event...
When is the Royal Variety Performance?
This year’s event is taking place on 1 December.
However, it will not air on TV until later in the month. The show will be shown on ITV1,...
- 11/27/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
David Baddiel brought out an agenda-shifting new documentary called Jews Don’t Count on Monday night (21 November), and it’s kept people talking ever since.
In the show, which aired on Channel 4, the author and comedian argues that antisemitism isn’t considered to be as unacceptable as other forms of discrimination, even among those who are vocal in their support of other minority groups.
Stars including David Schwimmer, Stephen Fry, Sarah Silverman and Miriam Margolyes talk to Baddiel on camera about their experiences of antisemitism in the documentary, which is a follow-up to Baddiel’s 2021 book of the same title.
Many have been praising the programme on Twitter, with actor Eddie Marsan writing: “#jewsdontcount the original book by @Baddiel was absolutely fascinating and the @Channel4 documentary tonight was just as enlightening. Heartbreaking to see my old mate @andynyman sharing the difficulty he’s faced but his last exchange with David was hilarious.
In the show, which aired on Channel 4, the author and comedian argues that antisemitism isn’t considered to be as unacceptable as other forms of discrimination, even among those who are vocal in their support of other minority groups.
Stars including David Schwimmer, Stephen Fry, Sarah Silverman and Miriam Margolyes talk to Baddiel on camera about their experiences of antisemitism in the documentary, which is a follow-up to Baddiel’s 2021 book of the same title.
Many have been praising the programme on Twitter, with actor Eddie Marsan writing: “#jewsdontcount the original book by @Baddiel was absolutely fascinating and the @Channel4 documentary tonight was just as enlightening. Heartbreaking to see my old mate @andynyman sharing the difficulty he’s faced but his last exchange with David was hilarious.
- 11/24/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Leigh Francis has said that Craig David needs to “move on” from their Bo Selecta row.
The TV personality – who uses the comedy name Keith Lemon – has been criticised in the past for the stunt in which he wore a rubber mask with exaggerated features intended to resemble the “7 Days” singer.
Francis impersonated a number of different celebrities on Bo Selecta, which ran on Channel 4 from 2002 to 2009.
David was one of those celebrities, and recently opened up about how the show affected him, calling it “bullying” and “racist”.
“He was highlighting characteristics he felt would trigger us personally,” David told The Times, saying “Every sketch felt personal.”
“It felt like a vendetta and when it got a following, it became something that affected me. People would shout at me on the street and I felt the same feeling I had when I was bullied at school. Leigh Francis had...
The TV personality – who uses the comedy name Keith Lemon – has been criticised in the past for the stunt in which he wore a rubber mask with exaggerated features intended to resemble the “7 Days” singer.
Francis impersonated a number of different celebrities on Bo Selecta, which ran on Channel 4 from 2002 to 2009.
David was one of those celebrities, and recently opened up about how the show affected him, calling it “bullying” and “racist”.
“He was highlighting characteristics he felt would trigger us personally,” David told The Times, saying “Every sketch felt personal.”
“It felt like a vendetta and when it got a following, it became something that affected me. People would shout at me on the street and I felt the same feeling I had when I was bullied at school. Leigh Francis had...
- 11/23/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - TV
The Last Leg has divided viewers after sharing their version of a football anthem to mark the World Cup 2022.
The football tournament kicked off in Qatar on Sunday (20 November), with England winning their first match 6-2 against Iran the following day.
After the win on Tuesday (21 November), the sports comedy show The Last Leg shared their anthem for the World Cup on social media, which was first broadcast during the episode on Friday (18 November).
To the tune of David Baddiel, Frank Skinner, and The Lightning Seeds’ track “Three Lions”, the parody song points to some of the controversies attached to the event and its host country.
Issues have included reports of mistreatment of migrant workers as well as Qatar’s criminilisation of homosexuality.
In The Last Leg’s version of the song, “It's becoming homophobic” is sung in place of the original chant: “It’s coming home, it’s coming.
The football tournament kicked off in Qatar on Sunday (20 November), with England winning their first match 6-2 against Iran the following day.
After the win on Tuesday (21 November), the sports comedy show The Last Leg shared their anthem for the World Cup on social media, which was first broadcast during the episode on Friday (18 November).
To the tune of David Baddiel, Frank Skinner, and The Lightning Seeds’ track “Three Lions”, the parody song points to some of the controversies attached to the event and its host country.
Issues have included reports of mistreatment of migrant workers as well as Qatar’s criminilisation of homosexuality.
In The Last Leg’s version of the song, “It's becoming homophobic” is sung in place of the original chant: “It’s coming home, it’s coming.
- 11/22/2022
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Jason Lee has said that he was “violated on so many levels” by David Baddiel doing Blackface.
In the Nineties, Baddiel and Frank Skinner would ridicule footballers on the BBC show Fantasy Football League.
One repeat subject of their tormenting was Nottingham Forest player Lee, who Baddiel would portray as dim-witted while wearing a pineapple on top of his head to imitate Lee’s hairstyle. In one occasion, Baddiel wore Blackface while impersonating Lee.
The pair come face to face for Baddiel’s new documentary Jews Don’t Count, with Lee talking in a new interview about the frosty meeting.
“Before Baddiel, I was receiving abuse for my skin colour or ‘You’re not good enough’. I was desensitised to most abuse,” Lee told The Times. “But the situation with Baddiel was a whole new layer of abuse. Baddiel Blacked up.”
He added: “So many people were complicit. BBC2. It’s selling,...
In the Nineties, Baddiel and Frank Skinner would ridicule footballers on the BBC show Fantasy Football League.
One repeat subject of their tormenting was Nottingham Forest player Lee, who Baddiel would portray as dim-witted while wearing a pineapple on top of his head to imitate Lee’s hairstyle. In one occasion, Baddiel wore Blackface while impersonating Lee.
The pair come face to face for Baddiel’s new documentary Jews Don’t Count, with Lee talking in a new interview about the frosty meeting.
“Before Baddiel, I was receiving abuse for my skin colour or ‘You’re not good enough’. I was desensitised to most abuse,” Lee told The Times. “But the situation with Baddiel was a whole new layer of abuse. Baddiel Blacked up.”
He added: “So many people were complicit. BBC2. It’s selling,...
- 11/21/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
A special Christmas edition of the classic football track “Three Lions” by David Baddiel, Frank Skinner & The Lightning Seeds has been released.
“Three Lions (It’s Coming Home for Christmas)” was released today ahead of the world cup in Qatar, which kicks off on 20 November.
After the Lionesses win during the summer, Baddiel, Skinner and the Lightning Seeds were inspired to make a new version of the song that incorporated their victory.
The new version now features new lyrics and an audio clip of the Lionesses’ press conference rendition of the song as well as featuring players Jess Carter and Beth England in the video.
New lyrics also include festive mentions such as: “Three Lions on a sleigh, with She-Lion’s Inspiration, Santa says let’s play, the Christmas tree formation.”
“At last it’s between me and Mariah Carey for who really is the voice of Christmas,” joked Baddiel.
“Three Lions (It’s Coming Home for Christmas)” was released today ahead of the world cup in Qatar, which kicks off on 20 November.
After the Lionesses win during the summer, Baddiel, Skinner and the Lightning Seeds were inspired to make a new version of the song that incorporated their victory.
The new version now features new lyrics and an audio clip of the Lionesses’ press conference rendition of the song as well as featuring players Jess Carter and Beth England in the video.
New lyrics also include festive mentions such as: “Three Lions on a sleigh, with She-Lion’s Inspiration, Santa says let’s play, the Christmas tree formation.”
“At last it’s between me and Mariah Carey for who really is the voice of Christmas,” joked Baddiel.
- 11/18/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
“Jews Don’t Count,” a new documentary from British writer and comedian David Baddiel set to air on U.K. broadcaster Channel 4 next week, is an examination of how, particularly in progressive circles, there is a persistent sense that Jews aren’t entitled to the same protection and support as other minority communities. That sense is predicated on the antisemitic belief that all Jews are rich, successful and “dominate” industries such as Hollywood, if not the very world order.
It’s symbolic of the catch-22 at the heart of the film that the succession of Jewish celebrities who appear within it to talk about their experiences of antisemitism, such as David Schwimmer, Sarah Silverman, Stephen Fry and Jonathan Safran Foer, may well end up further convincing antisemites that the very premise of the documentary is unfounded.
Baddiel, a comedian and writer, acknowledged that predicament at a press screening in...
It’s symbolic of the catch-22 at the heart of the film that the succession of Jewish celebrities who appear within it to talk about their experiences of antisemitism, such as David Schwimmer, Sarah Silverman, Stephen Fry and Jonathan Safran Foer, may well end up further convincing antisemites that the very premise of the documentary is unfounded.
Baddiel, a comedian and writer, acknowledged that predicament at a press screening in...
- 11/17/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Julie Hesmondhalgh has reflected on playing a trans character in Coronation Street.
The actor played Hayley Cropper in the ITV soap from 1998 to 2014, sharing the majority of her scenes with Roy Cropper actor David Neilson.
Hayley was the first permanant transgender character to ever appear in a soap and, for the role, Hesmondhalgh, 52, won several awards.
However, in a new interview, the actor has acknowlegded that she “wouldn’t be able to play” the role now.
In recent years, non-trans actors who have played transgender characters, including The Danish Girl star Eddie Redmayne, have said they regret their casting.
But Hesmondhalgh said that she remains “proud” of her work as “the press were absolutely awful about those issues”, and Hayley’s presence in the soap raised awareness among viewers.
“As a cisgender person, I wouldn’t be able to play that part now so it’s kind of good that I left when I did,...
The actor played Hayley Cropper in the ITV soap from 1998 to 2014, sharing the majority of her scenes with Roy Cropper actor David Neilson.
Hayley was the first permanant transgender character to ever appear in a soap and, for the role, Hesmondhalgh, 52, won several awards.
However, in a new interview, the actor has acknowlegded that she “wouldn’t be able to play” the role now.
In recent years, non-trans actors who have played transgender characters, including The Danish Girl star Eddie Redmayne, have said they regret their casting.
But Hesmondhalgh said that she remains “proud” of her work as “the press were absolutely awful about those issues”, and Hayley’s presence in the soap raised awareness among viewers.
“As a cisgender person, I wouldn’t be able to play that part now so it’s kind of good that I left when I did,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
David Baddiel has revealed that, in his new documentary Jews Don’t Count, he apologises to former footballer Jason Lee for impersonating him in blackface in the Nineties.
Baddiel and fellow comic Frank Skinner once had a BBC show called Fantasy Football League, in which they ridiculed footballers.
Much of their mockery was directed at Lee, the Black Nottingham Forest player. Baddiel would portray Lee as dim-witted, with a pineapple on top of his head to imitate Lee’s hairstyle. Skinner would put on a strong Northern accent to portray Lee’s then-manager, Frank Clark.
At one point, Baddiel wore blackface when depicting Lee.
Speaking on Good Morning Britain on Thursday (17 November), Baddiel said: “I shamefully impersonated Jason Lee in blackface 25 years ago on Fantasy Football, and I felt that it was important, if I’m going to do a documentary about Jewish representation and minorities, that I should go...
Baddiel and fellow comic Frank Skinner once had a BBC show called Fantasy Football League, in which they ridiculed footballers.
Much of their mockery was directed at Lee, the Black Nottingham Forest player. Baddiel would portray Lee as dim-witted, with a pineapple on top of his head to imitate Lee’s hairstyle. Skinner would put on a strong Northern accent to portray Lee’s then-manager, Frank Clark.
At one point, Baddiel wore blackface when depicting Lee.
Speaking on Good Morning Britain on Thursday (17 November), Baddiel said: “I shamefully impersonated Jason Lee in blackface 25 years ago on Fantasy Football, and I felt that it was important, if I’m going to do a documentary about Jewish representation and minorities, that I should go...
- 11/17/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
A new version of the David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and The Lightning Seed’s iconic “Three Lions” football anthem will be released.
Last month, The Lightning Seeds singer Ian Broudie revealed that they were in talks about releasing a new version of the song ahead of the World Cup in Qatar this year.
Given the time of year, Broudie said the song could have a Christmas spin on it and that it would also have lyrics changed to acknowledge the Lionesses’ triumphant win at the Euros this year.
“Three Lions” was originally released by comedians David Baddiel and Frank Skinner and the rock band The Lightning Seeds in 1996 for the Euros. It was then recorded again for the 1998 World Cup.
Now, Baddiel has confirmed that the updated song will be released and that they filmed the video recently – and the song will definitely be “Christmassy”.
“We filmed the video the other day,...
Last month, The Lightning Seeds singer Ian Broudie revealed that they were in talks about releasing a new version of the song ahead of the World Cup in Qatar this year.
Given the time of year, Broudie said the song could have a Christmas spin on it and that it would also have lyrics changed to acknowledge the Lionesses’ triumphant win at the Euros this year.
“Three Lions” was originally released by comedians David Baddiel and Frank Skinner and the rock band The Lightning Seeds in 1996 for the Euros. It was then recorded again for the 1998 World Cup.
Now, Baddiel has confirmed that the updated song will be released and that they filmed the video recently – and the song will definitely be “Christmassy”.
“We filmed the video the other day,...
- 11/4/2022
- by Megan Graye
- The Independent - Music
Exclusive: Louis Theroux’s Mindhouse Productions is making a premium Sky documentary about the tragic Lockerbie bombings as the celebrated documentarian and his Mindhouse co-founders talk moving into scripted, “leaning into the U.S. market,” future investment and the BBC’s controversial Jimmy Savile drama.
Alongside Co-Founder and Creative Directors Nancy Strang and Arron Fellows, Theroux sat down with Deadline for lunch at Soho House Hotel for a rare interview as the trio’s fledgling production company turns three, following what has been a whirlwind 36 months where they have secured multiple commissions, struck distribution deals, developed meaningful relationships with talent and set their sights Stateside.
Deadline can reveal three-parter Lockerbie, which is described as the “first premium box-set series about the disaster” by Sky and has been commissioned several months after a Sky/Peacock drama on the tragic event that led to the death of almost 300 people and poses unanswered questions to this day.
Alongside Co-Founder and Creative Directors Nancy Strang and Arron Fellows, Theroux sat down with Deadline for lunch at Soho House Hotel for a rare interview as the trio’s fledgling production company turns three, following what has been a whirlwind 36 months where they have secured multiple commissions, struck distribution deals, developed meaningful relationships with talent and set their sights Stateside.
Deadline can reveal three-parter Lockerbie, which is described as the “first premium box-set series about the disaster” by Sky and has been commissioned several months after a Sky/Peacock drama on the tragic event that led to the death of almost 300 people and poses unanswered questions to this day.
- 11/3/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Liz Truss is being ridiculed not just in the UK but also in the US after she became the shortest-serving prime minister in British history.
Truss handed in her resignation to King Charles last week after just 45 days in office, paving the way for Rishi Sunak to become the first UK prime minister of colour.
US talk show host Stephen Colbert took aim at the former Tory leader during his opening monologue on The Late Late Show.
Noting that Sunak is Britain’s first prime minister of South Asian descent and its first Hindu prime minister, Colbert joked: “Britons will be able to run their entire power grid off the turbines connected to Queen Victoria spinning in her grave.”
On Truss’s record-breakingly short term in office, Colbert said: “That’s not a term in office, that’s a juice cleanse.”
He then offered a “compilation” of Truss’s highlights as prime minister,...
Truss handed in her resignation to King Charles last week after just 45 days in office, paving the way for Rishi Sunak to become the first UK prime minister of colour.
US talk show host Stephen Colbert took aim at the former Tory leader during his opening monologue on The Late Late Show.
Noting that Sunak is Britain’s first prime minister of South Asian descent and its first Hindu prime minister, Colbert joked: “Britons will be able to run their entire power grid off the turbines connected to Queen Victoria spinning in her grave.”
On Truss’s record-breakingly short term in office, Colbert said: “That’s not a term in office, that’s a juice cleanse.”
He then offered a “compilation” of Truss’s highlights as prime minister,...
- 10/25/2022
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
Comedians Ricky Gervais, Nish Kumar and David Baddiel are among the celebrities to lead reactions to Liz Truss’s resignation after just six weeks as prime minister.
In a speech outside Downing Street on Thursday 20 October, Truss announced that her replacement would be found within the next week, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
The politician’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following a chaotic six weeks that included a disastrous mini-budget, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman.
Reacting to the news, Gervais shared a picture of himself making a speech outside No 10, with the caption: “And it wouldn’t even be in the top 10 weirdest news stories of the year.”
Piers Morgan tweeted: “What an absolute shambles.”
Comedian Baddiel posted: “That speech contained the words ‘to take advantage of...
In a speech outside Downing Street on Thursday 20 October, Truss announced that her replacement would be found within the next week, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
The politician’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following a chaotic six weeks that included a disastrous mini-budget, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman.
Reacting to the news, Gervais shared a picture of himself making a speech outside No 10, with the caption: “And it wouldn’t even be in the top 10 weirdest news stories of the year.”
Piers Morgan tweeted: “What an absolute shambles.”
Comedian Baddiel posted: “That speech contained the words ‘to take advantage of...
- 10/20/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke has ferociously condemned the Tory government, following Liz Truss’s resignation after just six weeks as prime minister.
On Thursday 20 October, Truss resigned as leader, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
Truss’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following six weeks that included a mini-budget that caused the pound’s value to plummet, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman just yesterday (19 October).
The new prime minister will be announced in the next week.
Reacting to the news, Yorke tweeted: “Bring down this UK government, they do not speak for us, right the f*** now… they have no authority, no mandate, no clue, cats in a bag tearing themselves to pieces while the country suffers in extreme distress. Enough of this s***. Shame on them.”
Other stars...
On Thursday 20 October, Truss resigned as leader, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
Truss’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following six weeks that included a mini-budget that caused the pound’s value to plummet, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman just yesterday (19 October).
The new prime minister will be announced in the next week.
Reacting to the news, Yorke tweeted: “Bring down this UK government, they do not speak for us, right the f*** now… they have no authority, no mandate, no clue, cats in a bag tearing themselves to pieces while the country suffers in extreme distress. Enough of this s***. Shame on them.”
Other stars...
- 10/20/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Music
Joe Lycett has joked that Liz Truss should run in next week’s leadership election, after she stood down as prime minister following just six weeks in office.
In a speech outside Downing Street on Thursday 20 October, Truss announced she was resigning, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
The politician’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following a chaotic six weeks that included a disastrous mini-budget, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman.
In her speech, Truss announced that there would be a leadership election in the next week.
Reacting to the news on Twitter, Lycett posted: “@trussliz Omg just heard there’s a leadership election nxt week????? u shud run babe youd be perfect!!!”
Read reactions from other comedians and stars here.
Lycett has been making headlines in recent weeks...
In a speech outside Downing Street on Thursday 20 October, Truss announced she was resigning, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in UK history.
The politician’s resignation came after 15 Tory MPs publicly called for her to step down, following a chaotic six weeks that included a disastrous mini-budget, the firing of former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and the resignation of former home secretary Suella Braverman.
In her speech, Truss announced that there would be a leadership election in the next week.
Reacting to the news on Twitter, Lycett posted: “@trussliz Omg just heard there’s a leadership election nxt week????? u shud run babe youd be perfect!!!”
Read reactions from other comedians and stars here.
Lycett has been making headlines in recent weeks...
- 10/20/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Scarlett Johansson has revealed that Joaquin Phoenix was so uncomfortable when she was recording her fake orgasms on the set of Her that he had to flee the studio.
Her, which came out in 2014, follows Theodore Twombly (Phoenix), a man who develops a relationship with Samantha (Johansson), an artificially intelligent virtual assistant personified through a female voice.
During a recent appearance on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, Johansson, 37, spoke about the scene from the film where her character was required to record herself having an orgasm.
Johansson told Shepard that Phoenix was so uncomfortable when she was recording it that he had to leave the film set.
“We tried to get through one take, and he was, like, losing it,” Johansson said.
“I was fine. Joaquin was not – he was so upset about it. He left the studio, and now I’m in this box by myself, and I’m like,...
Her, which came out in 2014, follows Theodore Twombly (Phoenix), a man who develops a relationship with Samantha (Johansson), an artificially intelligent virtual assistant personified through a female voice.
During a recent appearance on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, Johansson, 37, spoke about the scene from the film where her character was required to record herself having an orgasm.
Johansson told Shepard that Phoenix was so uncomfortable when she was recording it that he had to leave the film set.
“We tried to get through one take, and he was, like, losing it,” Johansson said.
“I was fine. Joaquin was not – he was so upset about it. He left the studio, and now I’m in this box by myself, and I’m like,...
- 10/16/2022
- by Ellie Harrison and Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Film
Alan Carr has put his own spin on Madonna’s now-notorious participation in a new TikTok trend.
The singer, 64, went viral last week after taking part in the trend, in which a person declares if they are gay depending on whether they successfully make a shot into a goal.
In a video posted on Sunday 9 October, Madonna could be seen holding up a pink pair of lacy knickers, with the caption, “If I miss, I’m gay!” displayed below.
After scrunching the underwear into a ball, the “Hung Up” singer throws it towards a bin and misses the shot.
Carr, who is gay, has made his own challenge in response, changing the caption on his video to: “If I miss, I’m straight.”
The comedian can be seen wearing shaving cream over his eyebrows to mimic Madonna’s bleached ones, and he has also stuffed something down his Mickey Mouse...
The singer, 64, went viral last week after taking part in the trend, in which a person declares if they are gay depending on whether they successfully make a shot into a goal.
In a video posted on Sunday 9 October, Madonna could be seen holding up a pink pair of lacy knickers, with the caption, “If I miss, I’m gay!” displayed below.
After scrunching the underwear into a ball, the “Hung Up” singer throws it towards a bin and misses the shot.
Carr, who is gay, has made his own challenge in response, changing the caption on his video to: “If I miss, I’m straight.”
The comedian can be seen wearing shaving cream over his eyebrows to mimic Madonna’s bleached ones, and he has also stuffed something down his Mickey Mouse...
- 10/16/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Emma Mackey has revealed that Russell Brand gave her an unusual nickname on the set of the 2022 mystery film Death on the Nile.
The movie, directed by Kenneth Branagh, is based on the 1937 Agatha Christie novel, and follows sleuth Hercule Poirot’s Egyptian holiday aboard a glamorous river steamer, which turns into a hunt for a killer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short.
In it, Mackey played Jacqueline “Jackie” de Bellefort, the scorned lover of Armie Hammer’s Simon Doyle, while Brand portrayed Linus Windlesham, the former fiancé of Gal Gadot’s wealthy heiress.
In a new interview with The Telegraph, when discussing why a close-up scene of her face in the new fictionalised Brontë biopic Emily was so powerful, Mackey said: “I think I just have a lot of eye. When I was working with Russell Brand on Death on the Nile, he called me ‘Eye-Face’. I was like,...
The movie, directed by Kenneth Branagh, is based on the 1937 Agatha Christie novel, and follows sleuth Hercule Poirot’s Egyptian holiday aboard a glamorous river steamer, which turns into a hunt for a killer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short.
In it, Mackey played Jacqueline “Jackie” de Bellefort, the scorned lover of Armie Hammer’s Simon Doyle, while Brand portrayed Linus Windlesham, the former fiancé of Gal Gadot’s wealthy heiress.
In a new interview with The Telegraph, when discussing why a close-up scene of her face in the new fictionalised Brontë biopic Emily was so powerful, Mackey said: “I think I just have a lot of eye. When I was working with Russell Brand on Death on the Nile, he called me ‘Eye-Face’. I was like,...
- 10/16/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Russell Crowe is denying a claim that his audition to star in My Best Friend’s Wedding went terribly. In fact, he is denying that the audition ever happened at all.
The 1997 romantic comedy starred Julia Roberts as a woman who realises she is in love with her best friend when he gets engaged to somebody else. While the best friend in question was ultimately played by Dermot Mulroney, Crowe was one of the actors who auditioned for the role.
In an excerpt of the book From Hollywood With Love, published in February, the film’s director Pj Hogan said of Crowe’s audition: “I don’t know what went wrong. It was one of the worst table reads I’ve ever experienced. Russell was seated opposite Julia. He gripped that script, and he stared at that script, and he didn’t look at her once.
“He read every line in a monotone.
The 1997 romantic comedy starred Julia Roberts as a woman who realises she is in love with her best friend when he gets engaged to somebody else. While the best friend in question was ultimately played by Dermot Mulroney, Crowe was one of the actors who auditioned for the role.
In an excerpt of the book From Hollywood With Love, published in February, the film’s director Pj Hogan said of Crowe’s audition: “I don’t know what went wrong. It was one of the worst table reads I’ve ever experienced. Russell was seated opposite Julia. He gripped that script, and he stared at that script, and he didn’t look at her once.
“He read every line in a monotone.
- 10/15/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
David Baddiel, Kathy Burke and Krishnan Guru-Murthy are among the celebrities who have reacted with joy to Miriam Margolyes swearing about Jeremy Hunt live on Radio 4’s Today programme.
At the end of an interview on the Saturday morning episode of the show (15 October), actor Margolyes told the hosts her reaction to seeing the new chancellor, Hunt, in the studio.
“When I saw him there,” she told Justin Webb and Martha Kearney, “I said, ‘You’ve got a hell of a job, best of luck.’ And what I really want to say was, ‘F*** you, bastard.’ But you cant say that.”
“Oh no no no you mustn’t say that,” replied Webb. “We’ll have to have you out of the studio now.”
“We will,” added Kearney. “With many apologies.”
Reacting to the chaotic scenes on Twitter, comedian Baddiel posted: “I love the panic on the presenters’ parts. They know...
At the end of an interview on the Saturday morning episode of the show (15 October), actor Margolyes told the hosts her reaction to seeing the new chancellor, Hunt, in the studio.
“When I saw him there,” she told Justin Webb and Martha Kearney, “I said, ‘You’ve got a hell of a job, best of luck.’ And what I really want to say was, ‘F*** you, bastard.’ But you cant say that.”
“Oh no no no you mustn’t say that,” replied Webb. “We’ll have to have you out of the studio now.”
“We will,” added Kearney. “With many apologies.”
Reacting to the chaotic scenes on Twitter, comedian Baddiel posted: “I love the panic on the presenters’ parts. They know...
- 10/15/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
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