Former UK Prime Minister makes waves in Texas, reflects on U.S. ties, and teases presidential
Boris Johnson is currently on a whirlwind tour of America, the country of his birth, and is leaving no stone unturned in his engagements. In Dallas, the former Prime Minister charmed a group of Texan Republicans, declaring that “wild horses couldn’t keep me away” from the U.S. Johnson, born in New York, shared his regret at giving up his American citizenship to avoid paying U.S. taxes—a decision that still haunts him.
As part of his trip, Johnson posted a photo from a meeting with former President George W. Bush, describing their conversation as a “productive discussion” about the war in Ukraine. Despite his past criticism of Bush, having once referred to him as a “cross-eyed Texan warmonger,” Johnson’s diplomatic side was on full display.
Next on his itinerary is Las Vegas, where he’s set to receive a hefty six-figure sum for a speech, prompting speculation about a potential future political comeback. Could a bid for the U.S. presidency be in his sights? Only time will tell.
Is the Duke’s Pub Era Coming to an End?
Fitzrovia pub, still adorned with Prince Andrew’s paintings, may be converted into flats
Real Estate, Royalty
The Duke of York pub in Fitzrovia, long a focal point for patrons seeking a pint amidst Prince Andrew’s portraits, may be nearing the end of its reign. Despite the pub’s refusal to update its name or signage after Andrew’s fall from grace, recent plans have emerged to convert its upper floors into flats. Shaftesbury Capital, which owns the site, has received permission to redevelop the nearby Wheatsheaf pub in a similar fashion, leading some to fear that the Duke of York may soon follow suit. CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has voiced concerns that the pub’s closure is imminent, and with it, the fate of the infamous paintings.
Karl Lagerfeld Celebrated in New BBC Documentary and Book Talks
Fashion icon’s legacy continues to be honored through new media and literary discussions
Fashion, Entertainment
It’s Karl Lagerfeld season, as the legendary fashion designer is remembered at the Met Gala and through a new BBC documentary. The latest tribute came last night in Camden, where writer William Middleton discussed his biography Paradise Now as part of Geist Talks, a literary salon founded by Sara Sjölund and Lillie Rage. Middleton shared how Lagerfeld, originally discouraged from playing piano by his mother, turned to drawing—a decision that would ultimately shape the fashion world.
High-Street Coffee Chains Battle for Book Award Dominance
Caffè Nero launches its new book awards to rival Costa’s discontinued Whitbreads
Business, Lifestyle
In the world of high-street coffee chains, competition now extends beyond quality coffee. Caffè Nero has announced it will launch the Nero Book Awards 2023 next month, taking over from Costa’s long-standing Whitbread Book Awards, which were scrapped last year. The new initiative adds to the growing trend of coffee shops becoming cultural hubs, with literary recognition now part of their business model. Will Pret a Manger follow suit with its own award for the arts?
Johnny Depp Tribute Concert and Chelsea Flower Show Highlights
Stars gather to honor Jeff Beck at Royal Albert Hall and celebrate horticulture at Chelsea
Entertainment, Lifestyle
In a tribute to his close friend, guitarist Jeff Beck, Johnny Depp graced the stage at the Royal Albert Hall last night. The tribute concert featured performances by Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton, and Ronnie Wood. Depp, who had been seen with Beck during his defamation trial against Amber Heard, called the event a “beautiful turnout.”
Meanwhile, the Chelsea Flower Show kicked off, with journalist Fiona Bruce visiting Horatio’s Garden, a space dedicated to the spinal injury charity. Also in attendance were the Spencer twins, Eliza and Amelia, who inspected the flower beds and added to the glamorous atmosphere of this annual event.
