David Marsh, who passed away after battling prostate cancer, remembered by loved ones

Kym Marsh has shared the heartache of losing her father, David Marsh, who passed away on Friday surrounded by family after a prolonged fight with prostate cancer. Expressing her grief on Instagram, the 47-year-old former Coronation Street actress and Hear’Say singer posted: “For the first time in my life… I have no words. I love you dad. Always and forever. Rest easy Pops. Goodnight godbless.”

The post drew support from friends and colleagues, including Morning Live presenter Helen Skelton, TV host Paddy McGuinness, and Paralympian Ellie Simmonds. McGuinness commented, “A lovely, lovely man. Sorry for your loss Kym. x.”

David Marsh was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2021, and his daughter dedicated efforts to raising awareness of the condition. That same year, Kym Marsh took a break from Morning Live due to anxiety attacks and focused on her mental health.

During her 2022 appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, Marsh spoke about her desire to bring joy to her father, who was undergoing cancer treatment in hospital. He later made an appearance on Morning Live during Men’s Health Week to encourage men to undergo prostate examinations without delay, sharing his experience with advanced prostate cancer.

In November 2023, Kym’s parents appeared on the show to update viewers, revealing that David’s cancer had spread to his bones after he delayed seeking medical attention during the pandemic.

The Marsh family issued a statement confirming his passing, remembering him as a “much loved husband, dad, grandad, great grandad and friend to many.”

Thousands gather in Trafalgar Square to mark 100 days since Hamas attacks

Thousands gathered in Trafalgar Square, joined by former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, to show support for Israel as the 100th day since Hamas’ attack approached. Braverman, chanting “bring them home” with the crowd, met attendees, took photos, and received thanks for her presence at the rally. President of Israel Isaac Herzog expressed gratitude in a video message to King Charles, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

Braverman emphasised: “It has been 100 days since innocent people were taken hostage by Hamas terrorists. We need to bring them home.”

Counter-protests by the Neturei Karta group occurred nearby, and the Metropolitan Police detained, but did not arrest, a man suspected of tearing a protest sign. Another arrest was made after antisemitic abuse was shouted from a passing car.

Participants at the rally held posters of hostages and messages such as “100 days in hell.” Iranian flags symbolising opposition to the Iranian government were also seen.

In his address, Herzog praised solidarity shown by British leadership and called for continued support. Speakers included Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely, Lord Pickles, and Labour MP Christian Wakeford. Relatives of hostages, including Eylon Keshet, spoke of their anguish. Keshet described the 100 days as “real human suffering” and pleaded for urgent action to secure the captives’ return.

Demonstrations across London on Sunday further raised awareness of hostages, including a cycling campaign through Regent’s Park, with cyclists carrying Israeli flags and posters depicting the captives.

Incident sparks renewed debate over migrant crossings and border policies

In a tragic incident early Sunday morning, five people lost their lives while attempting to cross the English Channel from France. The event unfolded near Wimereux on the northern French coast around 2am. French authorities reported a major emergency response effort that led to the rescue of 32 individuals who were transported to Calais, with two remaining in critical condition.

French media indicated that the migrants faced perilous conditions on the French shore, compounded by cold temperatures and darkness as they attempted to board their vessel. The Maritime Prefecture of the Channel and North Sea reported that several individuals attempted to reach the beach before rescue teams found six people unconscious in the water and on nearby rocks. Among the survivors, one was rushed to a hospital, while another received immediate care for severe hypothermia. A rescue helicopter remained on high alert due to particularly dangerous conditions in the Channel.

A UK Government spokesperson expressed condolences, stating: “The loss of five lives is devastating, and our thoughts are with the victims’ families and friends.” Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron described the incident as “heartbreaking,” calling for stronger measures to halt illegal crossings. Speaking on BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, he said: “It’s an appalling end in the cold waters of the Channel during the night. We’ve got to stop the boats and tackle this illegal trade in human beings.”

Lord Cameron also reiterated support for a controversial policy to forcibly relocate unauthorised arrivals to Rwanda. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s stalled Bill to implement this plan is set to return to the Commons for crucial votes this week. However, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer disputed the effectiveness of the proposal, while acknowledging the need to curb dangerous Channel crossings. “The starting place is to go after the criminal gangs behind this vile trade,” Starmer emphasised.

Charity Care4Calais has criticised the government’s approach, calling for safer pathways for refugees seeking asylum. Chief executive Steven Smith argued that providing systems of safe passage would prevent such tragedies. “As we head into an election year, we must advocate for safe routes to the UK for refugees to end the loss of life at sea,” Smith stated.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sunak faces pressure from within his own party, as Tory right-wing group leaders warned they could oppose the Rwanda Bill unless tougher measures are introduced. MPs Mark Francois, Sir John Hayes, and Danny Kruger have urged their colleagues to “stand firm” when the legislation faces key votes this week, potentially deepening a rift within the Conservative Party.

The Bafta nominee opens up about her journey, acting inspirations, and her vision for Australian cinema

Sophie Wilde, a rising star in the film industry, has captured attention with her standout performances in Talk To Me, Everything Now, and Tom Jones. At just 26 years old, she has already earned an EE Bafta Rising Star nomination, alongside fellow actors like Jacob Elordi, Ayo Edebiri, Phoebe Dynevor, and Mia McKenna-Bruce. Despite her relatively recent entry into the industry, Wilde has already made a significant impact.

Wilde’s reaction to the Bafta nomination was an emotional moment. “I was in New York when I got the call,” she recalled. “I didn’t know how to react at first. I went to a café, had a sandwich, and then I just started crying. That’s when it hit me.”

Originally from Sydney, Wilde graduated from the National Institute of Dramatic Art only five years ago, but her passion for acting has been long in the making. She fondly remembers attending My Fair Lady at the Sydney Opera House as a child, where she was so captivated that she didn’t want to miss a moment of the performance.

Looking forward, Wilde has expressed a desire to see more Australian films set in urban landscapes, as opposed to focusing predominantly on the country’s iconic outback. “We have a strong tradition of storytelling based on nature and the outback, which I love, but I feel there’s so much potential to explore urban settings in Australian cinema,” she explained.

Beyond her acting career, Wilde has undergone personal growth, crediting her work in film for helping her embrace her true self. “This career has forced me to come out of my shell,” she said. “It’s about playing, being childlike, and learning to embrace who I am. I’ve become more comfortable with being silly and not worrying about what others think.”

Wilde’s aspirations also extend to directing, and she looks to legendary actresses like Nicole Kidman and Audrey Hepburn as her inspirations, admiring their diverse and successful careers.

With her Bafta nomination and future plans for both acting and directing, Sophie Wilde’s career is certainly one to watch, as she continues to make her mark on both the Australian and international film scenes.

The BBC Radio 1 presenter discusses how the stress from the show led her to seek therapy.

Vick Hope has shared how the stress and pressure of competing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2018 led her to seek therapy. The 34-year-old BBC Radio 1 presenter, who appeared on the 16th series of the celebrity dance show, reflected on the anxiety and insecurity she experienced during the competition. Despite initially performing well, Hope was eliminated after a dance-off, a moment that marked a turning point for her mental health.

In an interview with Cosmopolitan UK, Hope revealed that she was overwhelmed by the intensity of the show and the external pressure of public opinion. “I was so naive around that time; I was so stressed, nervous and worried,” she admitted. “I was overthinking every single thing – ‘Are people going to think this dance is too sexy? Is this music choice too jarring for the older viewers?’” She recognised that she was complicating something that should have been fun and light-hearted.

Hope, who was living alone and single at the time, explained that she felt isolated and needed someone to talk to. “I was at a time in my life where I was really insecure. I didn’t think I was good enough, I was not kind to myself, and I think it showed,” she said. Therapy became the catalyst for her personal growth, helping her to overcome these challenges.

Since then, Hope has made significant strides in her life. She now speaks positively about her relationship with herself and her growing self-worth. “It went from a dark place where I didn’t like myself and didn’t talk kindly to myself. Now I know my worth,” she shared.

In 2020, Hope joined BBC Radio 1, and last year she co-hosted the Bafta’s red carpet show. Her personal life has also blossomed, with reports confirming her marriage to DJ and record producer Calvin Harris in a grand ceremony at Hulne Priory in September 2023. At the Harper’s Bazaar Women of the Year 2023 awards in November, Hope was seen wearing her wedding ring, further confirming her happy new chapter.

The BBC Radio 1 presenter discusses how the stress from the show led her to seek therapy

Vick Hope has shared how the stress and pressure of competing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2018 led her to seek therapy. The 34-year-old BBC Radio 1 presenter, who appeared on the 16th series of the celebrity dance show, reflected on the anxiety and insecurity she experienced during the competition. Despite initially performing well, Hope was eliminated after a dance-off, a moment that marked a turning point for her mental health.

In an interview with Cosmopolitan UK, Hope revealed that she was overwhelmed by the intensity of the show and the external pressure of public opinion. “I was so naive around that time; I was so stressed, nervous and worried,” she admitted. “I was overthinking every single thing – ‘Are people going to think this dance is too sexy? Is this music choice too jarring for the older viewers?’” She recognised that she was complicating something that should have been fun and light-hearted.

Hope, who was living alone and single at the time, explained that she felt isolated and needed someone to talk to. “I was at a time in my life where I was really insecure. I didn’t think I was good enough, I was not kind to myself, and I think it showed,” she said. Therapy became the catalyst for her personal growth, helping her to overcome these challenges.

Since then, Hope has made significant strides in her life. She now speaks positively about her relationship with herself and her growing self-worth. “It went from a dark place where I didn’t like myself and didn’t talk kindly to myself. Now I know my worth,” she shared.

In 2020, Hope joined BBC Radio 1, and last year she co-hosted the Bafta’s red carpet show. Her personal life has also blossomed, with reports confirming her marriage to DJ and record producer Calvin Harris in a grand ceremony at Hulne Priory in September 2023. At the Harper’s Bazaar Women of the Year 2023 awards in November, Hope was seen wearing her wedding ring, further confirming her happy new chapter.

For more insights, the full Vick Hope interview will be available in the February/March issue of Cosmopolitan UK, on sale from January 16.

The Japanese musician will auction his crystal piano to support those affected by the recent disaster.

At a poignant ceremony outside the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, Japanese musician Yoshiki unveiled his handprints and footprints, dedicating the moment to the victims of the devastating earthquake in central Japan, which claimed more than 160 lives on New Year’s Day. The 58-year-old rock star, concert pianist, and composer expressed hope that those experiencing grief would “find hope and inspiration” in his marks of recognition.

Yoshiki, known for his work with the band X Japan, revealed he would auction his iconic crystal piano, with all proceeds benefiting the victims of the tragedy. He shared his personal connection to the disaster, saying it “hit me so hard.” During his speech, Yoshiki also spoke candidly about the profound personal losses he has endured, including the deaths of his mother, father, former bandmates Hideto Matsumoto and Taiji Sawada, and most recently, a bandmate.

“Sometimes my hands feel very fragile, sometimes my hands feel very strong,” he said, reflecting on the emotional turmoil he’s been navigating. “But my fans have been supporting me and bringing me back to a positive place.”

In addition to his music career, Yoshiki’s recent directorial debut, Yoshiki: Under the Sky, touched on themes of loss and resilience. He explained the film’s title, saying, “Even though people closest to my heart went up in the sky, I’m still here. We’re still here. Still living here under the sky.”

Yoshiki also made history as the first Japanese-born artist to be honoured with the handprint and footprint ceremony, a tradition that dates back to 1927. “I never thought my name could be etched next to amazing Oscar-winners such as Tom Hanks, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and amazing athletes such as Kobe Bryant,” he remarked.

Currently, Yoshiki is composing the official theme song for the 50th anniversary of Hello Kitty.

Production for the upcoming film set to start in 2024.

A new Star Wars film, starring the beloved Mandalorian and Baby Yoda, is set to be directed and produced by Jon Favreau. Tentatively titled The Mandalorian and Grogu, the movie is scheduled to begin production in 2024, expanding the adventure of these iconic characters from the Disney+ series onto the big screen.

Favreau, who created the Mandalorian series, will return to direct and produce alongside Kathleen Kennedy, Lucasfilm president, and Dave Filoni, who will serve as producers. Details of the film’s plot remain under wraps, but the announcement has already stirred excitement among fans of the Star Wars universe.

“I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created,” Favreau shared. “The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting.”

Kathleen Kennedy added, “Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into Star Wars two new and beloved characters, and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.”

This film will be the first Star Wars feature since 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker, drawing further interest to what is expected to be another thrilling addition to the franchise. It is still unclear whether Pedro Pascal will reprise his role as the Mandalorian, but fans are eagerly awaiting more details about the project.

Family of Jonathan Udall, who perished in the 2018 crash, receives settlement from helicopter operator and manufacturer.

The parents of British tourist Jonathan Udall, who tragically died after suffering severe burns in a helicopter crash at the Grand Canyon in 2018, are set to receive a £78 million settlement. Jonathan, 31, was one of five British tourists who perished after an Airbus helicopter crashed and burst into flames on February 10, 2018, during a honeymoon trip.

Jonathan, originally from Southampton, was left with burns covering 90% of his body and died 12 days later in hospital. His parents, Philip and Marlene Udall, filed a wrongful death lawsuit, arguing that their son might have survived if it hadn’t been for the post-crash fire.

Under the terms of the settlement, which was approved by a US judge in Clark County, Nevada, on Friday, the Udalls will receive $24.6 million (£19.3 million) from the helicopter’s operator, Papillon Airways, and $75.4 million (£59.3 million) from the French manufacturer, Airbus Helicopters SAS.

In a statement, the Udalls expressed hope that the settlement would prompt manufacturers to implement safer technology in helicopters to prevent future tragedies. Their lawyer, Gary C. Robb, explained that part of the settlement would be used to advocate for better helicopter safety and support for burn survivors.

Robb stressed the need for safer fuel tanks, highlighting the issue with helicopters that have “unsafe, flimsy fuel tanks” that can rupture on hard landings, spilling fuel onto passengers and igniting, as seen in the crash. He called for immediate corrective action to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The crash occurred at the Grand Canyon shortly before sunset, with the Airbus EC130 B4 engulfed in flames after the crash. Alongside Jonathan Udall, other victims included his wife, Ellie Udall, who died from burn injuries after being transferred to hospital, and friends Becky Dobson, 27, Stuart Hill, 30, and Jason Hill, 32, who died at the scene.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation into the crash identified tailwind conditions as a probable cause of the pilot losing control. The pilot, Scott Booth, sustained severe leg injuries and was left with both legs amputated, while other passengers, including Jennifer Barham, suffered significant injuries but survived.

Fashion and homeware chain lowers costs on over 700 items as inflation and input costs fall.

Matalan, the UK-based fashion and homeware retailer, has announced a significant price reduction on more than 700 products as part of a £35 million investment aimed at making everyday essentials more affordable. The move comes as the retailer benefits from lower input costs and a reduction in inflationary pressures.

Prices across key product categories, including clothing and home furnishings, will drop by an average of 15%. Some items will see discounts of up to 25%, with the changes implemented from Monday, both online and in physical stores.

Notable price cuts include women’s hoodies reduced from £15 to £12.50, boys’ hoodies dropping from £13 to £10, and men’s straight-cut jeans now priced at £10, down from £11. Matalan has also cut the price of its popular bedding sets by £3 across all sizes, including single, double, and king.

The price reductions are made possible by Matalan’s efforts to streamline operations and reduce costs in various areas of its business. This includes savings on supplier prices and more efficient management, which have allowed the company to pass the savings on to its customers. Additionally, a new senior management team, appointed last year, has overseen changes to the company’s buying and sourcing strategies, further driving down costs.

Jo Whitfield, Matalan’s Chief Executive, stated: “The start of the year is always a tough time financially, and given how difficult 2023 was for many families, it’s going to be harder than ever. For 2024, we want to start the year off differently.” Whitfield, who took the helm at Matalan last year after leading Co-op’s food business, emphasised that the retailer’s focus is on offering value to customers during a challenging financial period.

The company’s strategy aims to make Matalan’s products more accessible to families, especially when inflation continues to affect household budgets.