Pratchett to probe assisted death

15 April 2011 Last updated at 04:00 ET

British author Sir Terry Pratchett is to participate in a BBC Two documentary about assisted suicide, it has been announced.

The Discworld writer will travel to a Dignitas clinic in Switzerland with a 71-year-old who suffers from motor neurone disease.

Sir Terry, who was diagnosed with a form of Alzheimer's in 2008, said he was "a firm believer in assisted death" and wanted to learn more about it.

The film will be shown in the summer.

Dignitas, the Swiss group which assists terminally ill people to end their own lives, was founded in 1998. Many people from countries where assisted suicide is illegal travel to its clinic to die.

In the UK, assisting suicide is illegal and carries a jail term of up to 14 years.

But more than 100 Britons have gone to Dignitas and no family members or friends have yet been prosecuted.

"I believe everybody possessed of a debilitating and incurable disease should be allowed to pick the hour of their death," Sir Terry said.

"And I wanted to know more about Dignitas in case I ever wanted to go there myself."

Last year, a UK inquiry into the issue of assisted dying was launched with funding from Sir Terry.

The BBC's commissioning editor for documentaries, Charlotte Moore, said: "Assisted death is an important topic of debate in the UK, and this is a chance for the BBC Two audience to follow Sir Terry as he wrestles with the difficult issues that many across Britain are also faced with."

The documentary will also see the writer explore how different European countries deal with the issue.

It is not the first time assisted suicide has been addressed by a television programme.

In 2008, a Sky documentary called Right To Die? showed 59-year-old Craig Ewert, who also suffered from motor neurone disease, end his life.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/entertainment-arts-13088111

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Liam Gallagher praises Man City flop Mario Balotelli

Asked about MARIO BALOTELLI's antics by BBC Football Focus, the BEADY EYE singer said: "What a geezer. I mean, all that throwing darts at people.

"That's not cool - a water balloon would have done. You know what I mean?

"But I like characters. If the world was full of f***ing Gary Nevilles man, it would be bobbins, wouldn't it?

"He just looks like an estate agent."

He's got a point.

Foul-mouth Liam did defend the now retired Gary's former teammate WAYNE ROONEY though, after his four-letter rant into a TV camera.

The frontman said: "I don't know what the big fuss is about, you know.

"I suppose there's a lot of kids out there called Sebastian who will find it horrific that he's swearing down the camera.

"But it happens, young man."

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/3530667/Liam-Gallagher-praises-Man-City-flop-Mario-Balotelli.html

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Actor Trevor Bannister dies at 76

15 April 2011 Last updated at 11:37 ET

Are You Being Served? star Trevor Bannister has died aged 76, his brother has confirmed.

The actor suffered a heart attack on Thursday at his allotment in Thames Ditton, Surrey, John Bannister said.

The actor was best known for his role as ladies' man Mr Lucas in the 1970s BBC sitcom set in a department store but he also worked in the theatre.

"He was a good lad, we were all very fond of him," Mr Bannister told BBC News.

He added his brother had been doing some repair work on his shed when he became ill.

Frank Thornton, who appeared as Captain Peacock in Are You Being Served?, told the BBC he had "many, many happy memories" of his co-star.

"He was a very good friend over a long time," he said.

"We often met with him and his wife - he was recently at my 90th birthday celebrations in January and that was the last time we saw him. We shall miss him sorely."

Born in Durrington, Wiltshire, and the youngest of three children, Bannister did two year's National Service before going to the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts.

During his career which spanned five decades, he appeared in TV shows including The Avengers, Dixon of Dock Green, The Saint and Z Cars.

He also made regular appearances in the theatre and in pantomime.

More recently, the actor had a stint in the long-running BBC series Last of the Summer Wine.

In 2009, the actor led the tributes to his Are You Being Served? co-star Wendy Richard and gave a reading at her funeral.

Speaking to the BBC at the time about his experiences of working on the sitcom, he said: "The joy of that particular show was the fact that most of us had known each other before we came to do it.

"We loved working with each other and had a lot of respect for each other. I think that fun and enjoyment conveyed itself through the screen."

He is survived by his second wife Pam and three sons Simon, Timothy and Jeremy.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/entertainment-arts-13098312

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American channel snaps up Big Fat Gypsy Weddings and wants US version

TLC starts screening the Channel 4 series - which pulled in nine million viewers - next month.

The US edition will feature some of the country's one million travellers and is expected to be bought by C4.

It will be made by Firecracker, the UK production company behind the C4 series, which got British gypsies to talk US relatives into taking part.

TLC called it a chance "to explore the often misunderstood traveller culture".

The UK series is also to be shown in Poland, Romania, Russia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Slovenia and Italy.

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/3530253/American-channel-snaps-up-Big-Fat-Gypsy-Weddings-and-wants-US-version.html

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Gordon Burns to leave BBC TV role

15 April 2011 Last updated at 11:35 ET

Gordon Burns is to stand down from BBC North West Tonight after nearly 15 years presenting the programme.

The 68-year-old presenter announced he is to leave in September when he will take up a new role hosting a Sunday morning BBC radio show.

Aziz Rashid, head of BBC North West, paid tribute to Burns describing him as a "unique talent" and a "broadcasting phenomenon".

No decision has yet been taken on appointing his successor.

Burns said: "It will be a great wrench to leave the programme I have been proud to present for nearly a decade and a half.

"I've enjoyed it enormously and I regard it as a real privilege to have been in the homes of people across the North West for so many years delivering the news to them."

Nationally, Burns is best known for The Krypton Factor which ran on ITV for 18 years.

'Unique talent'

Since he became the face of BBC North West Tonight in 1997, he has has interviewed seven British prime ministers and picked up the Royal Television Society award for Best UK Regional Presenter (NW) on five occasions.

Mr Rashid said he was a "unique talent".

"Gordon's contribution to the success of North West Tonight has been phenomenal. In fact he is a broadcasting phenomenon.

"He has navigated millions of viewers through the issues that matter across the region."

David Holdsworth, controller of BBC English Regions, said: "The word 'icon' can be over-used - but not in this case.

"Gordon Burns is synonymous with regional broadcasting and viewers in the North West have adopted him as one of their own. He will be a hard act to follow."

Burns is married with two grown-up children and two grandchildren. He has lived in Manchester for over 30 years.

He will continue to work with the BBC presenting a new show broadcast simultaneously on Radio Manchester and Radio Lancashire, on Sunday mornings from September.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/uk-england-manchester-13098045

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Pratchett to probe assisted death

15 April 2011 Last updated at 04:00 ET

British author Sir Terry Pratchett is to participate in a BBC Two documentary about assisted suicide, it has been announced.

The Discworld writer will travel to a Dignitas clinic in Switzerland with a 71-year-old who suffers from motor neurone disease.

Sir Terry, who was diagnosed with a form of Alzheimer's in 2008, said he was "a firm believer in assisted death" and wanted to learn more about it.

The film will be shown in the summer.

Dignitas, the Swiss group which assists terminally ill people to end their own lives, was founded in 1998. Many people from countries where assisted suicide is illegal travel to its clinic to die.

In the UK, assisting suicide is illegal and carries a jail term of up to 14 years.

But more than 100 Britons have gone to Dignitas and no family members or friends have yet been prosecuted.

"I believe everybody possessed of a debilitating and incurable disease should be allowed to pick the hour of their death," Sir Terry said.

"And I wanted to know more about Dignitas in case I ever wanted to go there myself."

Last year, a UK inquiry into the issue of assisted dying was launched with funding from Sir Terry.

The BBC's commissioning editor for documentaries, Charlotte Moore, said: "Assisted death is an important topic of debate in the UK, and this is a chance for the BBC Two audience to follow Sir Terry as he wrestles with the difficult issues that many across Britain are also faced with."

The documentary will also see the writer explore how different European countries deal with the issue.

It is not the first time assisted suicide has been addressed by a television programme.

In 2008, a Sky documentary called Right To Die? showed 59-year-old Craig Ewert, who also suffered from motor neurone disease, end his life.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/entertainment-arts-13088111

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Christine Bleakley: Daybreak presenter and fellow school nerds who blossomed into stars

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 1:37 AM on 16th April 2011

We've all heard of the ugly duckling who became a swan but as these fascinating pictures show, the transformation can happen in the real world too.

Christine Bleakley is one of the highest-paid presenters on British television but her teenage schoolmates in Northern Ireland probably never thought their frizzy-haired classmate would become a star.

But over 20 years on and the County Down girl is one of the most appealing faces on TV and has an England footballer partner to prove it.

Head girl power: Christine Bleakley showed who's boss

Bleakley's not the only telly star who's blossomed, with her Daybreak co-host Adrian Chiles now on a multimillion-pound contract having been a Midlands schoolboy cursed with huge glasses and an unfortunate haircut.

Chris Evans still has that shock of red hair, but he's swapped naff V-neck jumpers for designer suits while Gabby Logan has transformed from a tomboy teen to an Amazonian blonde.

As these pictures show, the nerds could have their revenge and become the next generation of TV stars.

Raise your glasses: Daybreak's Adrian Chiles was a real spectacle

The future's orange: Warrington whizzkid Chris Evans didn't mind the ginger jokes

Good sport: Teenage Gabby Logan the team player

There's lovely: One Show's Alex Jones never traded on her Welshness

Any chips, Mum? David Dickinson and his mischievous grin

Has she got talent? Amanda Holden was clearly never camera shy

Beyond satire: This smart young man grew up (a bit) to be Ian Hislop

Cheggers plays Pope: Keith Chegwin was a holy terror

Slim pickings: Broadcasting heavyweight Eamonn Holmes seems quite bashful

Fringe candidate: Bad hair day for Esther Rantzen, but that's life

Football mascot: Comedian David Baddiel wasn't always so dishevelled

Boy racer: All these years later, Jeremy Clarkson hasn't changed

Cheeky chappy: Young Paul O'Grady wasn't too savage

Hat trick: Carol Smillie clearly needed a makeover

 

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1377446/Christine-Bleakley-Daybreak-presenter-fellow-school-nerds-blossomed-stars.html?ITO=1490

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Lizzie Jagger Playboy shoot risks wrath of Mick

By Simon Cable
Last updated at 12:39 PM on 16th April 2011

Sir Mick Jagger was said to be less than amused after watching his youngest daughter peel off for a raunchy advertising campaign last month.

In which case, the latest exploits of her big sister will hardly help the old man’s blood pressure.

Lizzie Jagger is appearing in a nude photoshoot for Playboy magazine.

Uninhibited: Lizzie in a previous revealing photo

The 27-year-old eldest daughter of Sir Mick and Texan model Jerry Hall will feature in the May edition weeks after her 19-year-old sister Georgia May stunned the fashion world by posing topless for a campaign to advertise the U.S. jeans company Hudson.

 

A preview image from the shoot appears at the back of the current issue above the words: ‘Elizabeth Scarlett Jagger – She’s half supermodel, half rock and roll royalty and 100 per cent smoking hot. The sultry beauty gives us satisfaction.’

Lizzie will be appearing on the cover of the magazine, on sale in the UK next month.

Disapproving: Sir Mick has already advised his daughter not to pose nude

It shows her staring into the camera with her hair covering her breasts, in skimpy underwear and a matching garter belt. The publication will also be featuring a six-page nude pictorial.

Her appearance in the magazine, for a likely fee running into six figures, comes almost 26 years after her mother featured in a nude Playboy photoshoot at the age of 29.

Lizzie played an integral role in Marks & Spencer’s wholesome fashion campaigns starting in 2006, alongside Twiggy, Myleene Klass and Erin O’Connor.

But two years ago she turned down a £200,000 offer to renew her modelling contract with the store chain.

Despite making her catwalk debut aged just 14, she is said to have wanted to pursue a career as an actress instead.

It is not the first time her modelling career has raised concerns with her 67-year-old father. She angered him after a London Fashion Week show in 2004 when she appeared on the catwalk aged just 20 wearing a see-through top.

He was said to be behind her decision to turn down a lucrative offer to pose for Playboy in 2005, when she was 21.

However, she recently said she regretted the decision not to do the nude shoot, adding: ‘I’m thinking I should do naked pictures before I have children. Still, if it’s quite sexual, you do have to have boundaries.’

 

 

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1377460/Lizzie-Jagger-Playboy-shoot-risks-wrath-Mick.html?ITO=1490

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Coronation Street babes show their true colours ahead of FA Cup semi-final

The Sun took the famous FA Cup to the street this week as bitter Manchester football rivals United and City clash in the semi-final at Wembley this evening.

And Michelle well and truly ended her flirtation with United by wearing City blue, which will please her boyband fella Max George from The Wanted.

The brunette, 23, who plays Tina McIntyre in the soap, said: "I was never a true United fan anyway. It was peer pressure.

"But I've seen the light since being with Max. City is my team and after watching the film Blue Moon Rising I've found out that all true Mancunians are blues."

Michelle will be watching the game on TV with pals before going out on a hen night in Edinburgh.

Ironically, her favourite footballer also dumped United for City — Argentina striker Carlos Tevez.

Sacha, who plays lesbian Sian, is gutted she will not be able to cheer on her heroes in London as she must attend her uncle's wedding instead.

She said: "My uncle Steve is a diehard United fan and was horrified the match fell on the same day.

"He's got a room sorted for the game to be shown. We all love United so we're going to lock ourselves in there before the evening reception to watch on TV."

The blonde bombshell, 19, loves Ryan Giggs, who has been playing for United since before she was BORN.

She added: "Giggsy is just so adorable and a great player. I can remember watching him as a little girl — he's always been there and such a great role model."

Sacha taunted her pal Michelle, adding: "All the City fans I know are the most bitter supporters I've ever met. I'm not having any of their blue talk around me."

When informed that the cup she was holding is worth £1.5million, Michelle quipped: "Really? I'd rather buy a house."

Corrie stars Debbie Rush (Anna Windass), Shobna Gulati (Sunita Alahan) and Brooke Vincent (Sophie Webster) will be at today's match — along with Emmerdale's Mark Charnock (Marlon Dingle) and Tony Audenshaw (Bob Hope).

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3529981/Coronation-Street-babes-show-their-true-colours-ahead-of-FA-Cup-semi-final.html

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Any Questions halted after death

15 April 2011 Last updated at 19:05 ET

BBC radio's Any Questions? had to be cancelled after guests were unable to get to the recording because of major delays on a railway line.

The Radio 4 programme was due to be broadcast from the National Railway Museum in Shildon, County Durham.

But three of the four panel members, including Employment Minister Chris Grayling, failed to make it.

The delays were caused after a person was hit by a train on the East Coast main line.

There were further delays after signal problems in the Grantham area.

Liberal Democrat policy chief Richard Grayson was the one guest to make a successful journey, unlike Labour peer Lord Malloch-Brown and Interbrand chairman Rita Clifton.

'Unforeseen circumstances'

Listeners were given an on-air apology and a past programme was broadcast instead.

A spokesman said: "Due to unforeseen circumstances some panellists due to appear on Any Questions? from Durham this evening were severely held up on their journey."

Saturday's edition of Any Answers?, in which listeners respond to what they have heard during the debate, has also been cancelled.

The programme hopes to return to the museum in the future.

British Transport Police were called to a level crossing in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, after reports of someone being hit by a train.

A person was pronounced dead at scene and there were no suspicious circumstances.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/entertainment-arts-13102217

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Christine Bleakley: Daybreak presenter and fellow school nerds who blossomed into stars

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 1:37 AM on 16th April 2011

We've all heard of the ugly duckling who became a swan but as these fascinating pictures show, the transformation can happen in the real world too.

Christine Bleakley is one of the highest-paid presenters on British television but her teenage schoolmates in Northern Ireland probably never thought their frizzy-haired classmate would become a star.

But over 20 years on and the County Down girl is one of the most appealing faces on TV and has an England footballer partner to prove it.

Head girl power: Christine Bleakley showed who's boss

Bleakley's not the only telly star who's blossomed, with her Daybreak co-host Adrian Chiles now on a multimillion-pound contract having been a Midlands schoolboy cursed with huge glasses and an unfortunate haircut.

Chris Evans still has that shock of red hair, but he's swapped naff V-neck jumpers for designer suits while Gabby Logan has transformed from a tomboy teen to an Amazonian blonde.

As these pictures show, the nerds could have their revenge and become the next generation of TV stars.

Raise your glasses: Daybreak's Adrian Chiles was a real spectacle

The future's orange: Warrington whizzkid Chris Evans didn't mind the ginger jokes

Good sport: Teenage Gabby Logan the team player

There's lovely: One Show's Alex Jones never traded on her Welshness

Any chips, Mum? David Dickinson and his mischievous grin

Has she got talent? Amanda Holden was clearly never camera shy

Beyond satire: This smart young man grew up (a bit) to be Ian Hislop

Cheggers plays Pope: Keith Chegwin was a holy terror

Slim pickings: Broadcasting heavyweight Eamonn Holmes seems quite bashful

Fringe candidate: Bad hair day for Esther Rantzen, but that's life

Football mascot: Comedian David Baddiel wasn't always so dishevelled

Boy racer: All these years later, Jeremy Clarkson hasn't changed

Cheeky chappy: Young Paul O'Grady wasn't too savage

Hat trick: Carol Smillie clearly needed a makeover

 

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1377446/Christine-Bleakley-Daybreak-presenter-fellow-school-nerds-blossomed-stars.html?ITO=1490

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Bizarre | Showbiz news | Keep up-to-date with celeb goss

The song, produced by RED ONE, veers between banging house and cheesy euro-pop before the New Yorker raps at the end. It's decent - though the lyrics will wind up churchgoers even more.

---

RIHANNA has a rather shocking nickname for her mate KATY PERRY. I can't even write the word but it's similar to The Inbetweeners' famous "clunge".

Rihanna tweeted: "Just had a fun wild night out wit my bff @katyperry! Love u barec***."

Not surprisingly, Katy hasn't replied.

---

DAVID WALLIAMS gave his missus LARA STONE hosting tips before she went on stage to introduce WRETCH 32 and KATY B at an MTV/Calvin Klein event in east London on Thursday.

The model stumbled over a few words but was much more entertaining than PIXIE GELDOF's awful DJ set.

---

FOO FIGHTERS will be heading back to London for the iTunes festival this July.

Also confirmed to play free shows at Camden's Roundhouse are MANIC STREET PREACHERS, BEADY EYE, MAGNETIC MAN and legend PAUL SIMON. He should get DAVE GROHL in as a sub for ART GARFUNKEL. They've got similar hair.

---

CHER LLOYD is asking her mini-me fans to audition to bag a part in her first video.

One track she has recorded that could be her debut single is called Swagger Jagger. It's not a ROLLING STONES reference though - it's a term used for people who put you down... and Cher's faced a few of them.

---

ROBBIE WILLIAMS fans are angry after he turned his painting of MARTY FELDMAN into a T-shirt costing £35.

Dozens complained about the price but Robbie's staff insisted the tee was a quality limited edition and that proceeds would go to charity. There's me thinking it was Robbie's ciggie money.

---

ORLANDO BLOOM has ruled out having more nippers in the near future because they're too tiring.

He said: "I am trying to figure out one just now... I still feel like a baby, so one is good for a while. It's not knowing if I'm awake or asleep, I don't even know what time of day it is."

---

SLASH is heading back to his home city of Stoke.

The former GUNS N' ROSES guitarist was raised in the Potteries and will be playing there for the first time this summer. He said: "It's my first visit since I was five years old."

The oatcakes are amazing, apparently.

---

ARCTIC MONKEYS sound like they've been listening to old METALLICA and QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE tunes while recording new album Suck It And See.

The Sheffield lads' single Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair is a stonker with a proper metal sound.

---

Chelsea have installed a huge trampoline at their training ground to help their injured players bounce back to fitness.

They are denying the rumours that none of the rest of the squad can get a go on it because DIDIER DROGBA is too busy honing his diving skills.

---

MICHAEL SHEEN is the newest member of GLASVEGAS.

The Frost/Nixon star is to perform on a DAVID BOWIE cover on a new charity album by the band.

Michael said: "It's true, I want to do it - their music is stunningly beautiful."

---

If RUSSELL BRAND and KATY PERRY ever have kids, the funnyman wants to bring them up in the UK.

He said: "I secretly want to do that. I have a fear of hearing my American children speak to me in American accents."

No wonder he's worried.

---

NICKI MINAJ has signed up to support BRITNEY SPEARS on her summer tour.

ENRIQUE IGLESIAS had been lined up to open for the star but pulled out just hours after announcing his involvement.

Here's hoping Nicki likes fried chicken.

---

Good news for WHITE STRIPES fans - the band are releasing a live album of their final concert from 2007.

The double album, called Live In Mississippi, will feature songs from all six of their studio albums, plus covers of blues tracks.

---

ADAM ANT will play Hard Rock Calling in Hyde Park this summer.

The Eighties hero is back with new band THE GOOD, THE MAD AND THE LOVELY POSSE playing on June 26.

Tracks including Stand And Deliver are top festival fodder and much better than the LIGHTHOUSE FAMILY, also on the bill.

---

VERNON KAY hit the sack early before today's EA Sports Tiger 12 Bizarre Masters.

LES FERDINAND and MARK FOSTER will be trying to get the famous tartan blazer off him at The Grove golf course.

The contest includes a challenge on Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12: The Masters on the Xbox.

---

ADELE's 21, which stayed at number one yesterday, has broken another record.

It's now the most downloaded album ever on amazon.co.uk.

Adele's fellow Brit School graduate, KATY B, got to number two with her debut album On A Mission. In the singles chart J-LO stayed at top spot.

---

WRETCH 32 has outed himself as a TAKE THAT fan.

The rapper, whose single Unorthodox is out next week, admits their songs make him emotional. He said: "Greatest Day is a great record. I think a song like that - you don't come across too many in your career.

"It describes an amazing moment in life."

---

RENEE ZELLWEGER may love to run but I've never heard of someone stopping for a beauty treatment mid-jog.

The actress, who is visiting pals in Brighton, stopped at Champneys Town Spa for a pedicure.

What's the point in that if she had to put her sweaty socks back on?

---

THE MUSIC's final London gig has been upgraded to a bigger venue, Brixton Academy, because so many fans want to see them before they split.

The Leeds lads play on August 4, before a final show at Leeds Academy the day after.

Sad times.

---

ENGLAND batsman ALASTAIR COOK has no intention of becoming the DAVID BECKHAM of cricket.

He's been offered modelling jobs since he helped win The Ashes.

Speaking at the launch of Samsung's Series 9 notebook, he said: "I'm far more comfortable in a tracksuit covered in mud on my farm."

---

BEADY EYE's support group PENGU!NS play at This Feeling tonight.

ZAK STARKEY's new band are headlining at the Queen Of Hoxton, east London.

THE MOONS and Coventry lads PINT SHOT RIOT also make up the bill. See thisfeeling.co.uk/club for ticket info.

---

Main Square Festival in Arras, France, is the one to get to in July.

COLDPLAY, KASABIAN, ARCADE FIRE, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, BEADY EYE, ELBOW and LINKIN PARK are just a few of the names on the bill.

It's on from July 1 to 3, see mainsquarefestival.fr.

---

ELIZA DOOLITTLE says she would be up for posing in lads' mags now she has a contract with top agency Select Models.

Speaking at the launch of the Sony Music Unlimited service she said: "I'm comfortable with my body so I'll have to see if I get offered a shoot."

---

ROBERTO MANCINI would choose ROGER MOORE to play him in a movie about his life.

The Manchester City boss is a massive James Bond fan and feels the suave former 007 actor could easily pull off the role.

He said: "Roger Moore is a hero of mine."

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/297421/Bizarre-Showbiz-news-Keep-up-to-date-with-celeb-goss.html

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Liam Gallagher praises Man City flop Mario Balotelli

Asked about MARIO BALOTELLI's antics by BBC Football Focus, the BEADY EYE singer said: "What a geezer. I mean, all that throwing darts at people.

"That's not cool - a water balloon would have done. You know what I mean?

"But I like characters. If the world was full of f***ing Gary Nevilles man, it would be bobbins, wouldn't it?

"He just looks like an estate agent."

He's got a point.

Foul-mouth Liam did defend the now retired Gary's former teammate WAYNE ROONEY though, after his four-letter rant into a TV camera.

The frontman said: "I don't know what the big fuss is about, you know.

"I suppose there's a lot of kids out there called Sebastian who will find it horrific that he's swearing down the camera.

"But it happens, young man."

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/3530667/Liam-Gallagher-praises-Man-City-flop-Mario-Balotelli.html

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Ex-EastEnders star joins Corrie

15 April 2011 Last updated at 11:35 ET

Michelle Collins, who played Cindy Beale in EastEnders, is to join rival soap Coronation Street, playing the new landlady of the Rovers Return pub.

Collins appeared in the BBC One show for a decade until 1998.

As Stella, she will step behind the bar of the Rovers Return with on-screen husband Karl, played by Taggart actor John Michie.

Their first scenes will be filmed in May and screened the following month.

Collins is currently playing Fred Dibnah's wife in a stage play about the late TV steeplejack at the Bolton Octagon.

She said: "I am honoured to be joining the cast of Coronation Street. The show has been part of my life since I was a child so to become a part of it is extremely exciting."

Coronation Street executive producer Kieran Roberts said: "Of course Michelle's soap credentials are superb and in the same way she made Cindy Beale one of EastEnders' most memorable bitches, I am certain she is going to be fantastic as the warm, funny, steely, flawed and larger than life northern matriarch Stella."

She joins a select band of actors who have had roles in the UK's two most popular soaps.

Ian Reddington, who played Richard Cole, AKA Tricky Dicky, in EastEnders, went on to star as Vernon Tomlin in Coronation Street.

Jill Halfpenny played nurse Rebecca Hopkins in Coronation Street before switching to become Phil Mitchell's wife Kate in EastEnders.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/entertainment-arts-13099147

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Liz Hurley looks hot in pink in New York

The actress-turned-fashion-designer is a keen supporter of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and every year manages to pull together another jaw-dropping frock for the firm's themed parties.

This time she followed the Hot Pink dress code in a dazzling coral floor-length dress.

The asymmetric number showed off her beautiful curves to perfection while the model's new blonde highlights complemented her deep tan.

Charitable efforts ... Liz Hurley and David Furnish

New dad SIR ELTON JOHN was also present with his husband DAVID FURNISH.

And the piano man's garish specs were in keeping with the theme.

During the event he took to the stage with fellow Brit STING, who proved he's still a hit with the women as he invited members of the audience up on stage.

Liz was thrilled with the success of the event, which raised more than £2.5million.

She later tweeted: "Back at the hotel, kicking off six-inch heels, unzipping dress and about to have a l-o-n-g bath with my book. Yes!!

Star guests ... Elton John and David Furnish

XPOSUREPHOTOS.COM

"We raised more than £2.5million tonight for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. A huge thank you to everyone who came to support us xxx."

Liz's cricketer star boyfriend SHAYNE WARNE wasn't at the event but took to the Internet to show his support.

He tweeted: "@ElizabethHurley congrats on raising so much money for charity - well done to you & everyone who organized / performed & attended the event."

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/3529512/Liz-Hurley-looks-hot-in-pink-in-New-York.html

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EastEnders star Michelle Collins to be Coronation Street's new Rovers Return landlady

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 1:57 PM on 15th April 2011

Former EastEnders star Michelle Collins is to join Coronation Street as the new landlady of the Rovers Return.

Taggart actor John Michie will join her as new couple Stella and Karl who make 'sparks fly, the soap announced.

Michelle, 49, who is best known for her role as Cindy Beale, says: 'I am honoured to be joining. It’s been part of my life since I was a child. It is extremely exciting.'

Moving in: Former EastEnders star Michelle Collins has been announced to play Stella, the new landlady of Coronation Street's Rovers Return pub

Taking over: The actress will begin filming her scenes at the iconic location in the next month, show sources say

Stella is brought into the Rovers by owner Steve McDonald after a series of bust-ups with wife Becky leave the pubs future in jeopardy.

But Stella promptly moves in partner Karl and feisty daughter Eva, who's part has yet to be cast.

 

The new cast members are expected to begin filming their scenes in the next three weeks.

Villainess: Michelle played Ian Beale's wife Cindy for ten years on EastEnders

Husband: Taggart star John Michie will play Collins' husband Karl

Executive Producer Kieran Roberts said: 'I'm thrilled to be welcoming John and Michelle to the cast of Coronation Street. 

'In Taggart, John has kept viewers on the edge of their seats for the last ten years.

'Karl is a very different character for him though and the ladies of Weatherfield need to watch themselves, as this sexy charmer will quickly make his presence felt. 

'Michelle's acting credentials are first class with more than a decade leading some brilliant and memorable drama series. I am certain she is going to be fantastic as the warm, funny, steely, flawed and larger-than-life northern matriarch Stella.

'Karl and Stella's fiery marriage is sure to keep viewers hooked through 2011 and beyond.' 

John Michie added: 'My mum is from Rochdale, my wife is from Grimethorpe they are both northerners and huge fans. I am from even further north so it is the only soap for me.'

Michelle became a household name as the cheating, scheming wife of Ian Beale on EastEnders.

Passing the torch: Viewers watched Liz McDonald (left) leave Weatherfield last night and her on Steve will bring in Stella after bust-ups with wife Becky (right)

She played the villainous character for ten years from 1988 to 1998.  She is currently appearing on stage at the Octagon Theatre in Bolton in a production of The Demolition Man. 

Michelle's Corrie character will be taking over from Liz McDonald, the current Rovers Return landlady played by Bev Callard, who was seen by viewers leaving Weatherfield behind in last night's episode.

She’ll be following in the footsteps of famous Rovers landladies including Elsie Tanner, Annie Walker, Bet Lynch and Vera Duckworth.

Following in their footsteps: Former landladies Annie Walker (Doris Speed) and Bet Lynch (Julie Goodyear)

Behind the taps: Vera Duckworth (played by Liz Dawn) ran the pub with husband Jack (Bill Tarmey) from 1995 to 1998

 

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1377223/EastEnders-star-Michelle-Collins-Coronation-Streets-new-Rovers-Return-landlady.html?ITO=1490

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Gordon Burns to leave BBC TV role

15 April 2011 Last updated at 11:35 ET

Gordon Burns is to stand down from BBC North West Tonight after nearly 15 years presenting the programme.

The 68-year-old presenter announced he is to leave in September when he will take up a new role hosting a Sunday morning BBC radio show.

Aziz Rashid, head of BBC North West, paid tribute to Burns describing him as a "unique talent" and a "broadcasting phenomenon".

No decision has yet been taken on appointing his successor.

Burns said: "It will be a great wrench to leave the programme I have been proud to present for nearly a decade and a half.

"I've enjoyed it enormously and I regard it as a real privilege to have been in the homes of people across the North West for so many years delivering the news to them."

Nationally, Burns is best known for The Krypton Factor which ran on ITV for 18 years.

'Unique talent'

Since he became the face of BBC North West Tonight in 1997, he has has interviewed seven British prime ministers and picked up the Royal Television Society award for Best UK Regional Presenter (NW) on five occasions.

Mr Rashid said he was a "unique talent".

"Gordon's contribution to the success of North West Tonight has been phenomenal. In fact he is a broadcasting phenomenon.

"He has navigated millions of viewers through the issues that matter across the region."

David Holdsworth, controller of BBC English Regions, said: "The word 'icon' can be over-used - but not in this case.

"Gordon Burns is synonymous with regional broadcasting and viewers in the North West have adopted him as one of their own. He will be a hard act to follow."

Burns is married with two grown-up children and two grandchildren. He has lived in Manchester for over 30 years.

He will continue to work with the BBC presenting a new show broadcast simultaneously on Radio Manchester and Radio Lancashire, on Sunday mornings from September.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/uk-england-manchester-13098045

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X Factor bosses in judging talks with The Saturdays? Frankie Sandford

The girl group's stunning singer is said to have impressed producers with her forthright opinions and striking looks.

Execs on the hit Saturday night show believe she could be the perfect replacement for Cheryl Cole if she lands her coveted role as a judge on the US X Factor.

A show source said: "Frankie has all the right ingredients for an X Factor judge - she looks great, she can hold her own and she's been there.

"The Saturdays have had to work hard so she knows what the wannabes are going through.

"Just like Cheryl, she is young and glamorous and someone the contestants can relate to."

Frankie, 22 - who is dating football star Wayne Bridge - was in teen group S Club Juniors before joining The Saturdays so she already has a lot of showbiz experience.

Former Spice Girl Mel B is also in the running for the judging panel after holding talks with show chiefs yesterday.

Mel, 35, is desperate for the gig and dropped hints this week that she was in the frame by revealing she is quitting her home in the US.

Bosses are said to be "very interested", although they are thought to have considered her initially for the Australian version.

A source said: "She is certainly gobby which is what Simon Cowell loves."

Nobody has yet been confirmed for the judging panel for the new series, although Louis Walsh and Dannii Minogue are expected to return.

Show boss Cowell, 51, is set to be a judge on the US version which is due to start in September.

c.robertson@the-sun.co.uk

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/x_factor/3528824/X-Factor-bosses-in-judging-talks-with-The-Saturdays-Frankie-Sandford.html

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X Factor bosses in judging talks with The Saturdays? Frankie Sandford

The girl group's stunning singer is said to have impressed producers with her forthright opinions and striking looks.

Execs on the hit Saturday night show believe she could be the perfect replacement for Cheryl Cole if she lands her coveted role as a judge on the US X Factor.

A show source said: "Frankie has all the right ingredients for an X Factor judge - she looks great, she can hold her own and she's been there.

"The Saturdays have had to work hard so she knows what the wannabes are going through.

"Just like Cheryl, she is young and glamorous and someone the contestants can relate to."

Frankie, 22 - who is dating football star Wayne Bridge - was in teen group S Club Juniors before joining The Saturdays so she already has a lot of showbiz experience.

Former Spice Girl Mel B is also in the running for the judging panel after holding talks with show chiefs yesterday.

Mel, 35, is desperate for the gig and dropped hints this week that she was in the frame by revealing she is quitting her home in the US.

Bosses are said to be "very interested", although they are thought to have considered her initially for the Australian version.

A source said: "She is certainly gobby which is what Simon Cowell loves."

Nobody has yet been confirmed for the judging panel for the new series, although Louis Walsh and Dannii Minogue are expected to return.

Show boss Cowell, 51, is set to be a judge on the US version which is due to start in September.

c.robertson@the-sun.co.uk

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/x_factor/3528824/X-Factor-bosses-in-judging-talks-with-The-Saturdays-Frankie-Sandford.html

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Beauty is Jenny on the block

The 41-year-old, who beat younger contenders such as SCARLETT JOHANSSON and NATALIE PORTMAN to the People Magazine title, looks amazing as she films her video for the single I'm Into You.

The revealing metallic catsuit shows of her perfect figure as she poses on the Mexican set.

J-Lo was allowed unprecedented access to the archeological sites in Chichen Itza, Mexico, and she shipped in a host of dancers to perform in the clip.

She has recently rebooted her music career with the hit single On The Floor, featuring Pitbull, after a three-year break to look after her twins, Emme and Max, born in February 2008.

And the video for I'M Into You, her collaboration with rapper LIL WAYNE, will be premiered on US TV on May 2.

The American Idol judge, who married singer MARC ANTHONY in 2004, revealed yesterday that she is enjoying her return to the spotlight.

She said: "It feels great. Ever since I had the babies, I took a little bit of time not working as much as I had all my life. It was a different thing for me.

"Now, to get back to work, and to have them as well, it feels like it's the complete package for the first time in my life and I'm able to enjoy it in a different way."

Revival ... J-Lo

WireImage

Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/music/3527261/Beauty-is-Jenny-on-the-block.html

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Charlie Sheen and his goddesses greet his devoted followers after Toronto show

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 10:01 AM on 15th April 2011

With a crowd of adoring fans gazing up at him from below, there is little doubt that Charlie Sheen certainly felt like he was 'winning.'

The actor, with his goddesses, held court on a balcony outside The Massey Hall in Toronto last night after the first Canadian show on his Violent Torpedo Of Truth tour.

Smoking and clutching a red cup, and animated Sheen observed his fans who cheered and filmed him on their mobile phones.

The Warlock greets his followers: Charlie Sheen greets a gathering of fans outside The Massey Hall in Toronto after his Violent Torpedo of Truth show

Devoted: The crowd gaze up at Sheen after the first stop on the Canadian leg of the tour

The evening's show ended bizarrely with the 45-year-old toasting the ashes of an audience member's dead husband.

After an hour of frenetic conversation between the troubled actor and comedian Russell Peters during Sheen's My Violent Torpedo of Truth show, Sheen called out to the audience for a woman whose husband had died two years ago to come on stage.  Sheen, 45, said he read about her in a newspaper article.

 

The otherwise raucous audience in Toronto's Massey Hall fell silent as Wendy Newman took to the stage, clad in black and carrying a vessel. Ms Newman told the show-goers that her husband died of a heart attack and the only way she got through her difficult period was by watching DVDs of Sheen's former sitcom Two And A Half Men.

Bizarre: Sheen, 45, ended the show by toasting the ashes of an audience member's dead husband

When she learned the celebrity was coming to her home city, she snapped up tickets, then posted a message on Sheen's Facebook page asking if she could bring her husband's ashes to the show and have Sheen raise a glass in honour of her husband of 19 years.

He did, but it was a glass of non-alcoholic cider, according to Peters, since Sheen has said he has put an end to his drinking and drug use.

'I think I can now send you off, Charlie Sheen is here now,' said Ms Newman after she gave a brief eulogy of her husband.

Then, strangely, the show abruptly ended, followed by an incomprehensible video of Snoop Dogg rapping, leaving the audience confused and unsure if it was really over.

On tour: One of Sheen's 'goddesses,' Natalie Kenly enjoyed the attention from the crowds

'What the hell was that?' said audience member Dale Manudoc, 25. 'I didn't know what was going on during that whole show and then it just ends like that.'

Sheen's Toronto date was his first Canadian stop on the 20-city tour that includes a second Toronto show tonight and another stop in Vancouver, British Columbia.

His unconventional tour launched in Detroit on April 2 to an unimpressed audience who booed him, with some demanding refunds, and brutal reviews.

After the night opened in Toronto with a few non-sequitur scenes from Jaws and a montage of some of his movies including Platoon and Wall Street, Sheen walked out donning a baseball cap emblazoned with the word 'Winning', his catchphrase.

Erratic: Sheen was described as 'stilted' and his conversation fell flat as he told a series of random stories, according to audience members

'Let's start with the fact that there's no ash tray,' Sheen said. 'This may be the first city I may not need a cigarette.'

He then slyly slithered an electronic cigarette out from his pocket in an attempt to skirt Ontario's anti-smoking laws, which health officials had warned the chain-smoker about earlier. He has lit up frequently during his previous tour stops.

For the next hour, Sheen and host Peters, a popular Indian-Canadian comic, struggled to get a real dialogue going.

An unplanned question-and-answer segment came off as stilted while audience could not resist shouting either words of adoration or random questions.

Flying in style: Sheen and his goddesses landed in Toronto the day before in a private jet for his Canadian shows, which will include another in Toronto and one in Vancouver

The spectators got so disruptive, the pair opened up the show to the crowd in an attempt to allow them to ask their questions, but that also fell flat after several women lined up requesting only hugs and kisses.

In between the audience noise, the somewhat disjointed conversation was peppered with Sheen's random stories including an explanation of his 'seven grams of rock' reference from his 20/20 interview.

'Seven-gram rocks. Who smokes seven-gram rocks?,' he started with. 'Basically, I had overstuffed my crack pipe. The thing broke and the rock fell out.

No thanks: Warner Bros have dismissed Sheen's recent claims that there is an '85 per cent chance' he will return to Two And A Half Men after discussion with the network

'I put it on a scale and it was four grams. I put it back (in the pipe) and figured some probably broke off so it would have been like three grams, so three plus four is a seven-gram rock. And did I finish it in one hit? F*** yeah.'

That story prompted Peters to ask if Sheen had ever regretted anything he said.

'You look back and wonder why I say things. Sometimes I say things because they have bitchin' sounds,' replied Sheen.

Peters carried the show through more back and forth, and then Sheen brought his 'goddesses' - the two women he lives with - out by request from the audience. As they left the stage Sheen proclaimed: 'Do you f****** blame me?'

Sheen's recent erratic behaviour and battles with Two And A Half Men producer Chuck Lorre prompted Warner Bros Television and CBS to sack him from the top-rated sitcom.

He's since filed a £61 million lawsuit against Warner Bros and Mr Lorre, hit the media circuit with bizarre, stream-of-consciousness musings and impulsively launched his Torpedo of Truth tour.

So it was anticipated that he would discuss the developments that ultimately led to his recent 'Shenius' antics.

'It basically started because I told them, "f*** you",' he said. 'They fired me then, but they knew I was high for eight years. Eight years. It was all about ratings and numbers and as soon as I spoke up, they said, "You're exposing us".'

Meanwhile lawyers for  Warner Bros Television rejected Sheen's claim that he was in talks to return to two And A Half Men.

A letter from Warner Bros lawyers to Sheen's lawyer dismisses as 'false' the actor's comments that discussions are under way to reinstate him.

Details of the letter were confirmed by a person close to the situation.

Sheen told a Boston radio station on Tuesday that there was an '85%' chance of his returning to the sitcom.

The letter from the firm of Munger, Tolles & Olson to Sheen's lawyer Marty Singer, says there are no discussions regarding Sheen rejoining the show and there would be none.

 

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1377155/Charlie-Sheen-goddesses-greet-devoted-followers-Toronto-show.html?ITO=1490

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Betty Blue Eyes bewitches critics

14 April 2011 Last updated at 06:25 ET

The opening night of new musical comedy Betty Blue Eyes drew a star-studded audience to the Novello theatre in London's West End on Wednesday.

Actress Helena Bonham Carter, writer Stephen Fry and broadcaster Sir David Frost were among those who attended the Cameron Mackintosh production.

Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and new Britain's Got Talent judge David Hasselhoff were also in attendance.

The show - based on 1984 film A Private Function - features an animatronic pig.

It tells of a small community in post-war Britain raising a pig to slaughter in honour of the 1947 royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten.

The cast is led by League of Gentlemen star Reece Shearsmith, who plays a meek chiropodist who steals the swine at the behest of his social-climbing wife.

The Guardian's Michael Billington praised the new show, saying that Ron Cowen and Daniel Lipman's adaptation of Alan Bennett's script was "better than the original".

"The show's creators preserve the satire on small-town snobbery, greed and racism... while sharpening the storyline and using music genuinely to enhance character," he added.

Continue reading the main story

Our verdict

Neil Smith Arts reporter, BBC News

---

The pig steals the show in this odd mix of social satire, retro tunes and jingoistic flag-waving.

Every time she is wheeled on stage to bat her eyes and nod her head, she generates enough goodwill to turn the entire audience vegetarian.

Yet this is a musical without enough meat on its bones. Set in a bygone era of austerity and rationing, it has a script that desperately needs fattening up, with a tone that veers wildly between the perverse and the juvenile.

Children will love the titular porker. Yet how would they react to a distressing scene where her throat is almost cut, or another where five men stand before us simulating urination?

There's no denying this is a brave and unusual addition to the West End landscape. How long it will remain a part of it is anyone's guess.

In his four-star review in the Independent, Michael Coveney praised composer George Stiles and lyricist Anthony Drewe for "a series of charming songs".

Shearsmith and lead actress Sarah Lancashire, he went on, had been well cast. "He's charming, deft and moon-faced, while she translates her airs and graces into elegant dance lines and killer commands."

However, the critic reserved a special mention for "star of the show" Betty - "an animatronic pink beast, controlled remotely [who] does win hearts".

The Stage newspaper called Betty Blue Eyes a "likeably performed and technically accomplished musical".

However, its critic added that, unlike the theatre adaptation of 2000 film Billy Elliot, "the stakes don't feel quite so high".

"While you root for the real boy, it's difficult to become quite so animated about an animatronic pig, however cute she first appears."

The Telegraph's critic Charles Spencer included several porcine puns in his own four-star review.

"I'm telling no porky-pies when I say that this delightful new musical with an irresistible pig as its star left me grunting and snorting with pleasure," he wrote.

Betty Blue Eyes, which was directed by Sir Richard Eyre, is scheduled to run until 22 October.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/entertainment-arts-13078673

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Little White Lies: Why 'Le Big Chill' will leave you cold

By Chris Tookey
Last updated at 1:22 AM on 15th April 2011

Verdict: A long, hard slog

Rating:

Little White Lies sets out to be a Gallic Big Chill and ends up like a less comedic Grown Ups.

It’s about shallow, materialistic Parisians going on holiday while one of their number, a hedonistic party animal (Jean Dujardin), lies in hospital after a motor accident.

Mostly they seem obsessed not with their friend, but with their love lives.

Self-indulgent slog: The usually outstanding Marion Cotillard fails to lift this dreary film

Wealthy heterosexual restaurateur Max (Francois Cluzet) is upset that his best male friend (Benoit Magimel) is in love  with him. 

 

Ludo’s ex-girlfriend (Marion Cotillard) is struggling with commitment issues over her latest one-night stand. Two other men mope about the women who have dumped them.

There are more crude sexual references than you’d expect in an otherwise sophisticated French comedy.

The unhelpful American influence extends to the soundtrack, which features incongruous music by the Band and Creedence Clearwater Revival, and an excruciatingly mistimed version of My Way.

Guillaume Canet’s direction is self-indulgently flaccid, and his screenplay unstructured. It’s way too long at 154 minutes, but the biggest problem is the lack of momentum and character development.

The film drags its way to a tragic ending that allows the group’s elder statesman, an oyster farmer (played by real-life oyster farmer Joel Dupuch) to deliver a few home truths about showing off,  callousness and bourgeois hypocrisy, before the friends come together in a feelgood moment of lachrymose companionship.

I wish I could say I felt enlightened and enriched. Mostly, it made me feel in need of a good, long holiday.

 

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/reviews/article-1377075/Little-White-Lies-Why-Le-Big-Chill-leave-cold.html?ITO=1490

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