Knowing how to get Disney+ for free is a pretty nifty trick, especially when you realise that the streaming giant is no longer offering free trials to new customers.

TV streaming has become a regular outgoing for thousands of families, but the cost of living crisis means many people will be looking for ways to cut the cost of Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+. However, as well as reducing the cost, you might be able to get Disney+ and other streaming services for free. This might be especially useful, now that the streamer is cracking down on password sharing.

Disney+ launched in the UK on 24 March 2020, just as the country went into lockdown and saw 73.7 million subscribers in its first year alone. By April 2023, that number has risen to 157.8 million, although it has since fallen back to about 150 million worldwide.

Housing Disney classics, like The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid, as well as newer family-favourites like Encanto, Wish and Moana, Disney+ is also home to all the Marvel movies, like Iron Man, Thor and Black Panther, in addition to popular series for adults including The Bear and Only Murders in the Building.

With more than six million households signed up to more than one streaming service (according to Finder) telly-watching can be an expensive pastime. Here we look at how you can save by taking advantage of free subscription offers.

How to get Disney+ for free

While Disney+ no longer offers a free trial to customers in the UK, there are a few clever ways to get anything from two to 12 months of Disney+ for free. If you already have Disney+, you may have to cancel your subscription before taking advantage of the three, six and 12 month free offers mentioned in this article.

Personal finance expert Andrew Hagger from money website MoneyComms adds: “There are so many streaming services to choose from now, you can easily lose track of just how much you're paying out each month in total.

“With many people still struggling due to the cost of living crisis and higher bills, now may be a good time to review what you're paying for and how much you use each one – if you don't want to ditch any, consider downgrading to a plan with ads – it may be a bit more annoying, but it will certainly benefit your bank balance.”

How to get up to two months Disney+ for free

Pay the annual subscription fee: You can get two months of Disney+ for free simply by opting for an annual subscription instead of a monthly one.

A Standard subscription costs £7.99 per month (and means you will pay £95.88 over the course of a year). But if you pay up front in one go, it costs £79.90. This is the equivalent of only paying your subscription for 10 months of the year, meaning you get two months for free.

Disney+'s newer Premium subscription costs £10.99 a month, which adds up to £131.88 a year. But if you pay for a year up front it costs £109.90, which, again, is the equivalent of two months free.

Use a cashback site: Paying for your Disney+ subscription through cashback site TopCashback means you'll get up to £11.55 back, which can help to reduce the cost of your subscription. The amount you get back will depend on which subscription package you choose and whether you opt to pay the annual fee in one go or pay it monthly. All of the details can be found on the TopCashback website.

It's worth remembering that you can use the cashback site for loads of retailers to effectively save money everytime you shop online.

How to get three months Disney+ for free

Use your Tesco Clubcard vouchers: If you have a Tesco Clubcard, you can use your vouchers to get a three-month Disney+ subscription. Remember, you get two times the value of your vouchers when you spend with one of Tesco's Reward Partners, which includes Disney+.

There are two options:

• Use £7.50 of Clubcard vouchers to get three months of Disney+ Standard with ads (worth £14.97)
• Use £12 of Clubcard vouchers to get three months of Disney+ Standard (worth £23.97)

If you don't fancy Disney+, there are plenty of other ways to spend your Tesco Clubcard vouchers, on things like cinema tickets, holidays, and days out.

How to get four months free Disney+

Opt for a plan that includes ads: Disney+ offers a selection of subscription plans, including one where you'll get all the same programmes and films, with some ads in between.

If you go from an annual subscription for £79.90 to a standard (with ads) subscription for £4.99 per month (which works out as £59.88 over 12 months) - you'll save £20.02, which is the equivalent of getting four months of the standard with ads plan for free.

How to get six months free Disney+

Add it to your O2 account: If you are an O2 customer, you could get six months of Disney+ for free when you upgrade. You simply add it to your account as an extra when you upgrade to a new handset or SIM-only deal, and once the six months are over, you can continue to pay the £7.99 monthly fee with the rest of your mobile bill.

All is not lost if you don't want to upgrade. Existing customers can add the Disney+ Extra to their account and pay £7.99 a month for the Disney+ Premium plan (normally £10.99) and O2 will also give you £2 off your bill.

This deal isn't limited to six months like the free offer, and over the course of a year, works out to about £14 cheaper than paying the annual subscription fee as the table below shows:

Samsung used to offer six of 12 months free Disney+ access to customers with an eligible device , but that offer is no longer available, having ended on 31 March 2024.

How to get 12 months free Disney+

As a benefit to a Club Lloyds bank account: If you bank with Lloyds and are a Club Lloyds member, you get a choice of lifestyle benefits, which includes a 12 month-subscription to Disney+. If you opt for this perk, you'll get a year's worth of the standard-with-ads plan, which is worth £4.99 per month, or £59.88 a year. The Lloyds website states that right now, you're not able to upgrade to ad-free plans with this perk, so bear that in mind before you commit.

As a perk of Uber One membership: If you regular travel by Uber and order food via Uber Eats, then you may benefit from becoming an Uber One member (£5.99 per month). You'll get a host of perks including free delivery (where eligible) and exclusive discounts. But if you sign up for an annual Uber One membership (£59.99 per year), then you'll get 12 months of Disney+ (standard plan, worth £7.99 per month or £79.90 per year) for free. After that, it will auto-renew unless you cancel it. This promotion is available until 30 November 2024. If you cancel your Uber One subscription, you may also lose your Disney+ access.

How much does Disney+ normally cost?

How much Disney+ costs depends on which subscription type you pick. The streaming service introduced a new pricing strategy on 1 November 2023. Up until this date it offered just one subscription at £7.99 a month or £79.90 a year if you paid in one go. Its cheapest price is now a £4.99 a month deal if you’re happy to watch adverts.

Disney+ has three subscription options:

• Standard with Ads: £4.99 per month (no annual option). Allows for two concurrent streams; full HD 1080p resolution, 5.1 and Stereo sound. No download functionality.
• Disney+ Standard: £7.99 per month or £79.90 per year. Allows for two concurrent streams; full HD 1080p resolution, and 5.1 and Stereo sound. Download functionality and no adverts.
• Disney+ Premium: £10.99 per month or £109.90 per year. Allows for four concurrent streams; 4K UHD and HDR, and superior Dolby Atmos audio. Download functionality and no adverts.

Existing subscribers were automatically switched to the £10.99 a month option – an increase of £3 a month – unless they actively changed their subscription in their account settings.

 Does Disney+ offer a free trial? 

Disney+ no longer offers a free trial to new customers. When the streaming service first launched in the UK in March 2020, it came with a seven-day free trial to encourage new subscribers. But the freebie was only available for a few months – it was scrapped in June 2020 ahead of the Hamilton and Frozen 2 premieres.

Newer streaming services like Apple TV+ and Paramount+ offer short free trials for new customers, but out of the bigger streaming services like Disney+, Netflix and Amazon Prime, it's only Amazon Prime that still offers a free trial.

Is Disney+ free with with Amazon Prime?

Disney+ isn't free as part of your Amazon Prime subscription - it's a separate streaming service. However, you might find some shows or movies are available on both platforms, although you might have to pay for it. For example, Marvel movies are available for free as part of a Disney+ subscription, but you will need to pay extra (on top of your Amazon Prime subscription fee) to be able to watch them through Prime Video.

It's worth also understanding the hidden benefits of a Prime membership, if you are trying to decide which streaming service to choose.

Which streaming services offer free trials?

Out of the big hitter streaming services, like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, it's only Amazon Prime that offers a free trial. That trial lasts 30 days.

Max Beckett, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com, said: “Unfortunately, two of the biggest streaming services, Netflix and Disney+, no longer offer free trials to new customers. However, there are still lots of other big streaming services, such as Amazon Prime Video, NOW TV, and BritBox, that offer the chance to try before you buy.

“You may have signed up for more streaming services than you realise, with many running in the background and costing you money each month without you actually watching anything on those platforms. So it’s a good idea to set reminders in your calendar when you sign up for free trials if you decide that you don’t want to pay for the full subscription.”

Apple TV+ and Paramount+ both offer seven day free trials. Don't forget too, that if you buy an Apple product, like an iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch, you will get anything from three to 12 months free Apple TV+ access.

If you are a fan of Netflix, make sure you are aware of the streamer's ban on password sharing to avoid falling fowl of new rules.

The reality matchmaking show with a twist is back on Netflix, and viewers want to know more about The Ultimatum season two cast. 

The Ultimatum follows five couples in which one partner has issued - you guessed it - an ultimatum: to get married or break up. Over eight weeks, the couples split up and enter a trial marriage with someone else, and at the end of the experiment they must make a final decision about their relationship. 

The first season premiered back in April 2022, and fans of the show still like to keep up with which couples from The Ultimatum are still together. Then, just in time for Pride Month, The Ultimatum: Queer Love arrived on Netflix in June 2023, following five queer couples on the same journey - and viewers are still wondering if Lexi and Rae and Sam and Aussie are still together. Now that the latest instalment of the show has landed, here's everything you need to know about The Ultimatum season two cast.

The Ultimatum season 2 cast

1. Lisa and Brian

Who gave the ultimatum? Lisa, 32, Vice President of Clinical Services

Who received the ultimatum? Brian, 29, Financial Analyst

Lisa is no stranger to giving ultimatums - she's the reason the couple decided to make things official after telling Brian it was time to make a decision six months into their situationship. Now that the couple have been together for a year and a half, will Lisa's method work the second time around? While Lisa says, "If he’s not ready to propose, then I'm ready to move on," Brian is hesitant to pop the question due to Lisa’s jealousy issues and her tendency to turn disagreements into explosive arguments. And after a shock exit part way through the series, TV viewers want to know if Lisa and Brian are still together.

Follow Lisa and Brian on Instagram: @lisahorne_ | @brianxokoye

2. Kat and Alex

Who gave the ultimatum? Kat, 28, Travel Nurse

Who received the ultimatum? Alex, 32, Software Sales 

Dating app success story Kat and Alex made things official after meeting online, and now Kat can't "imagine her life" without Alex - he even chose to join her when she decided to take her career on the road. Since then, the couple have travelled all around the country together, but despite their mutual love of adventure they remain different in their communication styles. While Kat is conflict-avoidant and doesn't like being the decision maker, Alex wants to be challenged by a partner who isn’t afraid to speak their mind. But he might want to be careful what he wishes for, because now Kat has put her foot down about marriage and given Alex - who is hesitant to take the plunge - an ultimatum.

Follow Kat on Instagram: @kathrynshelton

3. Ryann and James

Who gave the ultimatum? Ryann, 24, Radiologic Technologist

Who received the ultimatum? James, 24, Grad Student and Research Assistant 

High school sweethearts Ryann and James have been together nearly seven years, having started dating when the prom queen and football player were just 16 years old. Though their relationship has stood the test of time, they struggle with communication and trust issues, and now Ryann is giving James the ultimatum because she believes he "should know for sure" by now that he wants to be with her forever. Meanwhile, James doesn't want to tie the knot before he's landed a secure job. After Ryann forms a connection with another cast member, fans of The Ultimatum have been wondering if Ryann and James are still together.

Follow Ryann and James on Instagram: @ryanntaylorrrrr | @jamesmorris_g98

4. Riah and Trey

Who gave the ultimatum? Trey, 29, Area Manager at Paper Mill

Who received the ultimatum? Riah, 25, Managing Server

Another dating app couple, Riah and Trey have now been together for two years, starting their relationship long distance before Riah moved into Trey's place. However, she feels Trey has been slacking on their date nights and is hoping for more romance, while Trey feels her sky-high expectations have been warped by social media. He's ready to create a life together and is giving Riah an ultimatum, but she insists that she's never "seen a happy healthy marriage", and won't commit to a wedding in her future.

Follow Rian and Trey on Instagram: @jeriahnyree | @treyb16

5. Roxanne and Antonio

Who gave the ultimatum? Antonio, 30, Freight Broker

Who received the ultimatum? Roxanne, 31, Founder and CEO

Roxanne and Antonio have known each other for years, but it wasn't until they reconnected on social media that a romance blossomed. They have a strong connection and have been together on and off for the past four years now, so Antonio feels like marriage is the natural next step. However, Roxanne is career-focused and wants her future husband to match her income and business ambition - an expectation that Antonio doesn't meet. He wishes that she’d pay him more attention, particularly when it comes to demonstrating her affection, and is giving her an ultimatum because he believes "that kind of pressure needs to be applied" for her to seriously consider getting married.

Follow Roxanne and Antonio on Instagram: @rickyrox_ | @amattei2

How to watch The Ultimatum season 2

The Ultimatum season 2 arrived on Netflix on Wednesday 23 August. Episodes one to eight arrived on the streaming service on this date, while episodes nine and 10 will be released on the platform on Wednesday 30 August.

For those who don't have Netflix, the streaming service has three different plans available from as little as £4.99 per month. Unfortunately, Netflix doesn't offer free trials, but you have the freedom to change your plan or cancel online at any time if you decide it isn’t for you. There are no contracts, no cancellation fees, and no commitments - sign up for your Netflix subscription here.

If you're looking for more reality show news, here's which couples are still together from Love Island. We've also revealed where Too Hot To Handle was filmed and the details of the season 3 Love is Blind cast and the season 4 cast too.

Netflix viewers have enjoyed binging seasons one and four, and now they want to know where to watch seasons two and three of Manifest in the UK.

Supernatural series Manifest first aired in 2019, but it's seen renewed interest in recent months after the fourth and final season landed on Netflix earlier this year. The show follows the passengers of Montego Air Flight 828, which vanished mid-flight before mysteriously reappearing five years later, with those on board unaged and unaware that so much time had passed. Now that the dramatic finale is available to stream, fans of the show have been looking to get the Manifest ending explained.

And it's been a long time coming, with the show taking a two-year break after being cancelled by American broadcaster NBC. Since its arrival on Netflix, it's stormed to the top of the streaming service's most-watched list, alongside the likes of free-diving documentary The Deepest Breath and season 5 of Too Hot To Handle. However, due to licensing issues, only seasons one and four are available on Netflix in the UK, leaving fans wondering how they can watch seasons two and three of Manifest too. 

Where to watch seasons 2 and 3 of Manifest in the UK

Seasons two and three of Manifest are available to stream on Sky Go and NOW in the UK. Sky Go is free to Sky TV customers, and you can choose the right Sky package for you on their website. Meanwhile, NOW is available from £6.99 a month.

Elsewhere, the first three seasons of Manifest are available to purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV and Google Play. The series is also available to download on the Microsoft store.

Why aren't seasons 2 and 3 of Manifest on Netflix in the UK?

Seasons two and three of Manifest aren't available on Netflix in the UK due to the limitations of the licensing deal. Netflix signed a deal with NBC after the American network cancelled the show following its third season.

After Manifest's popularity exploded, Netflix decided to renew the final season, meaning it holds exclusive rights for season 4 only, while previous seasons are exclusive to Sky and its streaming service NOW in the UK.

Seasons 1 to 3 of Manifest are therefore available to stream on Netflix in the US, Canda and many other countries, meaning one other way that UK viewers can access earlier episodes is by installing a VPN.

If you want to find out more about the most popular shows on Netflix right now, we've also revealed why Henry Cavill left The Witcher and where Sweet Magnolias was filmed.

Netflix's The Crown is to pay ultimate tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II when the sixth and final season airs.

The popular show has seen three actresses - Claire Foy, Olivia Colman and Imelda Staunton - depict the role of the former monarch throughout various stages of her life from season one to season five.

Following the Queen's death last year, producers decided to continue filming, but making it the sixth and final season and there's reports that the streaming service plans to pay tribute to the late Queen by featuring a line up of its biggest stars from The Crown cast.

All three actresses who played the late Majesty are set to appear once again as its claimed new scenes have been filmed starring them.

But that's not all, newcomer Viola Prettejohn will play a very young Queen Elizabeth II during her younger years from the war time.

According to The Sun, the decision to revisit the Queen's life and mark it in someway came after record-breaking viewers tuned in to watch the Queen's funeral.

The insider teased, "Netflix are playing a clever hand with these four queens, bringing the story of Her Majesty to a sensational end after telling virtually all of her life story over 60 episodes.

“It also indicated the respect and affection which the creators have for the lates monarch, even though they might not feel the same way about the royals as an institution."

They added, "The idea would most likely have been devised last year, around the time that the Queen passed away, as a way of paying tribute to her. Getting the actresses together was no feat as both Claire and Olivia went on to bigger things after making The Crown and have packed schedules.”

The Crown previously shared a statement defending the show after it was branded 'deliberately hurtful' to royals and fans are eagerly awaiting season 6, which is set to air in 2023.

And while the sixth season is set to feature events leading up to the Queen's death, there is talk of creators of The Crown making a film about the Windsors - looking at Elizabeth before her reign or the rift between Prince William and Prince Harry.

Video of the week

The final season is finally here, and fans are eager to know how to watch Succession...

Succession has had audiences hooked since it first aired in 2018. The dark comedy-drama follows the Roy family - which controls one of the biggest media companies in the world - after their patriarch, Logan (Brian Cox), steps back from the family business. The decision sees his children begin competing to take his place, and the scheming and backstabbing has now entered its fourth season. 

Just like TV fans have been keen to know where they can watch The White Lotus - another hit comedy drama - and stand-out Oscar winner Everything Everywhere All at Once, as well as wondering where they can watch New Girl after it leaves Netflix, viewers have been asking similar questions of the latest hit TV series, Succession season 4.

How to watch Succession in the UK

The fourth season of Succession is available to watch in the UK on Sky Atlantic or NOW, following the series premiere on Monday 27 March. And if you're yet to watch the previous seasons, you can also catch up on NOW, while seasons 1-3 are available on Amazon Prime too.

To watch the latest series, you can sign up to Sky via their website for £26 per month. Or, to stream it on NOW, you can purchase an Entertainment Pass for £9.99 per month - and this includes a seven-day free trial available for all first-time subscribers. 

How to watch Succession in the US

Succession is available to watch in the US via HBO on cable, following its premiere on 26 March. It can also be streamed on HBO Max for those with a subscription.

You can subscribe to HBO for $15.99 per month, while plans for HBO Max start at $9.99/month. You can also add HBO Max to your Hulu subscription for $14.99 a month more.

And if you want to catch up on previous seasons of Succession, you can buy individual episodes on other streaming services, including Amazon, Google Play, iTunes, and via premium subscription to YouTube TV.

Succession season 4: How many episodes are there?

The final season of Succession is made up of 10 episodes. Episodes air weekly every Sunday at 9pm ET/PT on HBO. The same episode airs on Monday in the UK and is available to stream on Sky Go straight after their 2am release. Each episode will also air the same evening at 9pm on Sky Atlantic in the UK.

After those 10 episodes, that's it for the hit show. Show writer Jesse Armstrong revealed back in February that season four would be the end of Succession, telling The New Yorker: "I got together with a few of my fellow writers before we started the writing of season four… and I sort of said, 'Look, I think this maybe should be it.'"

Succession season 4 cast

• Brian Cox as Logan
• Sarah Snook as Shiv
• Jeremy Strong as Kendall
• Kieran Culkin as Roman
• Alan Ruck as Connor
• J. Smith-Cameron as Gerri
• Nicholas Braun as Greg
• Matthew Macfadyen as Tom

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After nearly 10 years on Netflix, the streamer has announced that the fan-favourite sitcom New Girl will be leaving the platform. But, there's no need to panic, the seven-season comedy will be available to stream elsewhere. 

The Fox original series ran from 2011 to 2018, gaining fans for its unique take on the sitcom genre. With Zooey Deschanel starring as the show's lead, Jess, Max Greenfield, Jake Johnson, Lamorne Morris and Hannah Simone made up the rest of New Girl's five-strong, as the show's descriptions puts it, “charmingly dysfunctional – or strangely functional – family.”

Based in the bustling city of LA, school teacher Jess finds herself in need of a new apartment after a particularly nasty, and hilariously funny, break up with her boyfriend. 

She quickly moves in with three complete strangers; the law school drop out-turned bartender Nick, the quirky Schmidt, and former athlete Winston. Viewers watch on as this unlikely group form close friendships and navigate millennial life in the big city.

A nod to its success, New Girl featured many notable guest stars across its seven seasons, including Prince, Taylor Swift, Megan Fox, Justin Long, Josh Gad, Jamie Lee Curtis, Brenda Song, Adam Brody and Linda Cardellini, just to name a few.

With multiple Emmy wins and Golden Globe nominations under its belt, it's no surprise that fans of the show were shocked to hear it would be leaving Netflix. But, the show will still be available to stream online. So for all of those panicking about loosing their favourite comfort show, here we share where you can watch and stream New Girl once it's been removed from Netflix.

Where can i watch New Girl after it leaves Netflix? Streaming details

Once New Girl has been removed from Netflix, the comedy series will be available to stream on both Hulu and Peacock in the US, as well as on Disney+ in the UK. New Girl made the move to the UK's Disney+ platform back in 2021.

For viewers outside of the UK, all of New Girl's 146 episodes will be available on Hulu and Peacock beginning on 17 April 2023. For viewers in the UK, the show will remain on Disney+.

When is New Girl leaving Netflix?

Netflix subscribers will have to bid adieu to New Girl, with the last date to watch the show on the streamer being 9 April 2023. This leaves 8 days in which the show will be unavailable to stream online as the seven-season series does not become available on its new homes, Hulu and Peacock, until 17 April 2023.

Fan reactions to the news have been emotional, with many directing anger towards Netflix for its decision. One fan wrote, "Netflix getting rid of New Girl WHY WHY WHY WHY WHY," with another writing, "They’re taking New Girl off Netflix on April 9th? This is the worst news of my life!!!"

More tweets echoed the sentiment, "The last day to watch New Girl on Netflix happens next month and I want to cry," one fan posted. Another, even more emotional, post read, "I honestly don’t know what imma do once New Girl gets taken off of Netflix… life has lost all meaning there is no hope I will have no will to live," while another user added, "If I don’t have constant access to New Girl I will literally perish and I need Netflix to understand that."

Fans in the UK were sent into similar turmoil back in 2021 when the show was removed by Netflix, but they quickly recovered when all seven season's appeared on Disney+. 

Why is New Girl leaving Netflix?

New Girl is leaving Netflix because the streamer's licensing deal expired. Instead of renewing the license, Disney, who now own the company who produced the show and licensed it to Netflix, along with NBCUniversal created a bargaining agreement that allows their respective platforms, Hulu and Peacock, to share the streaming rights to the comedy’s entire catalogue.

New Girl is just the latest Disney-produced series to be taken off Netflix in favour of Hulu after licensing deals expired. It joins other shows like American Horror Story, American Crime Story, Pose, and Arrested Development.

While there is anger over the decision, the show's move to Hulu does make sense. New Girl was produced and distributed by 20th Century Fox, a company which is now owned by Disney, who also currently co-owns Hulu.

Wondering what all the fuss is about? Here's where to watch Everything, Everywhere All at Once from the comfort of your living room sofa.

Everything, Everywhere All at Once took home an incredible seven awards at the  Oscars 2023 - making it the most-awarded picture winner in the ceremony's history. Many fans were pleased that Michelle Yeoh (who faced tough competition from To Leslie actress Andrea Riseborough) walked away with the Oscar for Best Leading Actress. Her nomination made her the second asian woman in history to be nominated for the Best Actress Oscar - and the first to walk away with it.

The film is considered a relative outsider much like Netflix's All Quiet on the Western Front which similarly racked up an impressive nine Oscar nominations. Those that haven't seen the sci-fi film yet are able to stream it and form their own opinion of it via these streaming platform options...

Where can I watch Everything, Everywhere All at Once?

Viewers in the US and UK can stream Everything, Everywhere All at Once on Amazon Prime. Members signed up to Prime Video can currently watch the film for free as part of their subscription package.

A Prime Video only subscription can be purchased for $8.99/£5.99 per month. You can also get access to Prime Video with an Amazon Prime membership for $14.99/£7.99 per month. This includes all Prime benefits, such as next day delivery, and music streaming too.

Those that don't want to watch Everything Everywhere All At Once via Amazon Prime will be pleased that the film is available to rent or buy at home on other platforms too.

Audiences in the US can rent or buy the movie via iTunes (from $19.99) and Vudu (from $19.99). Meanwhile, those in the UK can find it on iTunes (from £5.49) and Microsoft Store (from £3.49).

Everything Everywhere All At Once was also released on DVD and Blu-ray on July 5, 2022.

Is Everything, Everywhere All at Once on Netflix?

No, Everything, Everywhere All at Once is not available to stream on Netflix. The film was produced and financed by A24 films and distributed by Lionsgate Home Entertainment. Netflix as yet haven't secured the rights to feature it on their streaming service.

What is Everything, Everywhere All at Once about?

Everything, Everywhere All at Once tells the tale of Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a Chinese-American immigrant who is struggling to keep her family's laundromat afloat. Behind on her taxes, the world as she knows it takes an unexpected turn following a visit from IRS auditor Deirdre Beaubeirdre (Jamie Lee Curtis).

What follows is a sci-fi action adventure which sees Evelyn take on different versions of herself in a parallel universe. Her mission? To stop someone coming to harm in the multiverse.

The IMDB synopsis reads: "A middle-aged Chinese immigrant is swept up into an insane adventure in which she alone can save existence by exploring other universes and connecting with the lives she could have led."

A24 production company describes Everything, Everywhere All at Once as "hilarious and big-hearted".

Everything, Everywhere All at Once cast

• Michelle Yeoh plays Evelyn Quan Wang
• Jamie Lee Curtis plays Deirdre Beaubeirdre
• Stephanie Hsu plays Joy Wang (Evelyn's daughter)
• Ke Huy Quan plays Waymond Wang (Evelyn's husband)
• James Hong plays Gong Gong (Evelyn's father)
• Jenny Slate plays Debbie the Dog Mom
• Harry Shum Jr. plays Chad

Talking of her role, which led to a Best Actress win at the Oscars 2023, Michelle said: "It was liberating. These mothers, aunties, grandmothers who are there in Chinatown, or in the supermarket, but nobody ever notices them. They just walk straight past them. I wanted to give them a voice. I wanted to make them the superhero."

The 59-year-old also admitted to jumping at Everything, Everywhere All at Once when it came along. "I waited a long time for this, and luckily it came," she added. 

"Some people wait their whole life and the opportunity might never come. I was patient. I was resilient. I never stopped learning. And so I was ready when the opportunity did present itself."

Everything, Everywhere All at Once - Oscar Wins

1. Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role (Michelle Yeoh)
2. Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (Jamie Lee Curtis)
3. Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (Ke Huy Quan)
4. Best Picture
5. Best Director (for Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert)
6. Best Editing
7. Best Original Screenplay

Everything, Everywhere All at Once swooped the board at the 2023 Academy Awards. Several cast members walked away with an Oscar, as did the movie's directors Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert. The film also took home the coveted prize of Best Picture.

The sci-fi film was nominated in 11 catergories - losing out in Best Original Song, Best Original Score and Best Costumer Design. Stephanie Hsu was also up for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress but lost to her co-star Jamie Lee Curtis instead. 

Going into the Oscars 2023, bookies predicted Everything Everywhere All at Once as the favourite to win in big categories like Best Picture and Best Actress in a Leading Role.

Betfair gave the film odds on 1/10 to win Best Picture at the Oscars this weekend, closely followed by The Banshees of Inisherin at 10/1. Michelle Yeoh was the favourite to bag the Best Actress gong with odds of 4/7. Meanwhile the film's directors Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert were 1/25 to win Best Director. All three predictions came true on the night.

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Video of the Week

The thriller has got audiences in the US talking, so it's no surprise many want to know how to watch The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson Story in the UK.

The popularity of true crime movies is showing no signs of waning, and just like fans wanted to know is The Good Nurse a true story after it landed on Netflix - as well as questions prompted by Dahmer, like how did Jeffrey Dahmer get caught and how he died - there's another film that has viewers intrigued by the true story behind it.

The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson Story was first released on US platform Lifetime on Saturday 11 February and is available to stream online in the country. It's become a hit with American audiences, so it's no surprise that true crime fans are now asking how they can watch The Girl Who Escaped in the UK.

How to watch The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson Story in the UK

The Girl Who Escaped isn't available on any major steaming platforms, but you can watch it in the UK by using a virtual private network (VPN), which allows you to access channels available outside the UK.

We've tested all of the biggest VPN providers and we rate ExpressVPN as number one amongst competitors. It guarantees fast connections from anywhere and can unlock all the relevant streaming services. Sign up on the ExpressVPN website and get three months free when you buy a year subscription.

The Girl Who Escaped is also available to watch in the US on Cable channel Primetime at 6pm (Eastern Time) on Saturday 18 February and on the Lifetime streaming service and DirectTV - both of which are only accessible in the US but can be accessed from the UK using a VPN.

What is The Girl Who escaped about?

The Girl Who Escaped centres around titular character Kara Robinson, who was abducted by a serial killer but managed to escape and help the police hunt her attacker down.

The film's synopsis reads: "While in her best friend’s front yard, 15-year-old Kara Robinson was approached by a man who put a gun to her neck and forced her into his car. He would go on to take Kara to his apartment where he held her captive and sexually assaulted her for 18 hours. 

"While he was asleep, Kara escaped the restraints and his apartment. Even though it was the middle of the night, Kara was able to lead the police back to the apartment’s exact location and identify her captor, a serial killer who was also responsible for at least three other unsolved homicides."

Is The Girl Who Escaped a true story?

Yes, The Girl Who Escaped is based on a true story. The real Kara Robinson was kidnapped in June 2002, when she was taken from the front yard of her best friend’s house.

Richard Evonitz put Kara in a plastic storage container and transported her back to his apartment, where he kept her for 18 hours before she escaped while he was sleeping. 

While she was captive, Robinson memorised details about her surroundings that helped her to lead law enforcement back to Evonitz' apartment, where they discovered that he was a serial killer believed to have killed three girls in Virginia.

Kara Robinson now works as a motivational speaker and as part of a number of outreach and advocacy groups that work with survivors of kidnapping and assault, and her story was also told in documentary form in Escaping Captivity: The Kara Robinson Story in September 2021.

The Girl Who Escaped cast

• Katie Douglas (Ginny & Georgia) as Kara Robinson
• Cara Buono (Stranger Things) as Debra Robinson
• Kristian Bruun (Orphan Black) as Richard Evonitz
• Lisa Marie DiGiacinto (DC’s Legends of Tomorrow) as Bonnie Jennings
• Erik Athavale (A Christmas Cookie Catastrophe) as Aaron Rowland
• John B. Lowe (A Kiss Before Christmas) as Sheriff Dale Stephens
• Gwendolyn Collins (Orphan: First Kill) as Stephanie Newell

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• Treason on Netflix: Where is it filmed and what is it based on?

Video of the Week

Wondering will Netflix stop password sharing? If you share Netflix accounts, it’s important to be aware of a huge rule change that’s due to take effect by early summer.

Thanks to high inflation, the cost of pretty much everything is going up which means that families are becoming increasingly concerned about how to cut household bills. 

In an effort to find ways to save money on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney Plus, some households have been sharing account passwords with others. But now, Netflix is cracking down on this money saving loophole. 

Goodto.com’s Money Editor, Sarah Handley, says: “If you currently share your Netflix account details with a family member who doesn’t live with you or you’ve been piggybacking off someone else’s account, it’s vital to know how a new rule change could affect your pocket later this year.” 

Will Netflix stop password sharing?

Yes - Netflix has said that it will ban family members living in different households from using the same account. Instead it plans to launch a paid-password sharing scheme. 

The scheme was due to launch in March, but the rollout was delayed. In an April meeting with investors, Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters confirmed that the scheme will be rolled out globally in the second quarter of the year - which means it will launch sometime between April and June. 

Solicitor Paul Britton of Britton and Time solicitors told us: “In 2022, it was announced that Netflix had lost half a million subscribers in the UK alone, meaning a huge drop in its income. In order to try and limit the damage of losing this significant number of subscribers, it is planning to introduce a new system that means that Netflix users will need to pay more for multi-household password sharing.”

The change also follows a recent ruling by the Intellectual Property Office that sharing Netflix passwords is illegal.

Tech expert and founder of SEOTesting.com, Nick Swan, says: “Research firm Digital i estimated last year that about one quarter of Netflix subscribers in the UK are sharing their passwords, which the Intellectual Property Office – a Government agency – outlined as against the law, citing a breach of contractual terms, fraud or secondary copyright infringement.”

What is paid sharing?

If you are currently letting someone in another household piggyback off your Netflix account and you want this to continue, you will soon have the option of adding something known as ‘paid sharing’. 

The move follows trials in selected South American countries and allows people from different households to add profiles under one account, provided the account holder pays an additional fee. It’s not yet known how much this will be but it’s expected to be around £2 to £3 per month. Keep in mind that those who live in the same household as the account holder won’t have to worry about paid sharing. 

If you’d prefer not to add paid sharing, your friend or family member will need to pay for their own Netflix account or look at alternatives. You could also try switching to other big streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV Plus that offer free trials.  

Can you share Netflix accounts right now?

Under current rules, each Netflix account is only meant to be shared in one household, with different subscription options allowing users different levels of account access and enabling them to stream on either one or several devices. 

However, it’s also possible for the main account holder to share password details with other households, giving them access to Netflix content for free. 

No matter which subscription you have, you can set up a total of five different profiles on a single account. This enables you to set up profiles for different family members so they can receive different recommendations depending on their age and viewing tastes.

How many people can watch Netflix at once? 

The number of devices that can stream Netflix at the same time will depend on the plan you have.

TV and streaming expert at Uswitch.com, Catherine Hiley, told us: “The newest, Netflix Basic with Ads, costs £4.99 a month and allows subscribers to watch on one device at a time. For £6.99 a month, subscribers can stream content ad-free in standard definition. Like the cheaper package, they can only use one device but are also able to download content. 

“Netflix’s Standard subscription costs £10.99 a month and enables viewers to watch shows and films in HD and on two devices at a time. The most expensive Netflix subscription, Premium, is £15.99 per month and enables subscribers to watch in Ultra HD and on four devices at a time.”

What happens if you share Netflix accounts?  

Currently, if you share your Netflix password with someone outside your household, you might need to verify the new user is allowed access, but not a lot else will happen. 

Technically, it is against Netflix’s terms and conditions that state: “The Netflix service and any content accessed through the service are for your personal and non-commercial use only and may not be shared with individuals beyond your household unless otherwise allowed by your subscription plan.”

But, up until now, Netflix has never indicated it will take any action if you don’t follow these terms.

What could happen if you share accounts after the crackdown? 

Given that sharing Netflix passwords has been classed as illegal, it’s likely that Netflix will get a little tougher on those who bend the rules. Tech expert Nick Swan told us: “On the technical side, Netflix will use a combination of your account activity, device IDs, geographic locations and IP addresses to stop password sharing.”

This will help Netflix to work out which people count as household members living together. If it detects a change in location of the account being used, it’s likely that the account holder will receive a notification and be prompted to either change their household address or pay a fee to add the new address.

Solicitor Paul Britton adds: “Users in a trial in Latin America received notifications informing them that if their account was used at a separate location for over two weeks, they would need to pay the extra fees. If users try to continue to bend the rules when the new change is brought in, as with any breach of the Netflix terms of use, users’ accounts may be terminated or restricted.”

But don't worry if you're trying to watch Netflix while away on holiday. Subscribers will still be able to watch Netflix when travelling, using their laptop, tablet or mobile phone.

Netflix's Perfect Match features reality stars from Too Hot To Handle, Love is Blind, The Circle and more. So let's meet the cast.

Fans of reality TV are in for a treat this Valentine's Day, because Netflix's brand new show Perfect Match brings together some of the biggest stars from the streaming service's previous dating shows in a second attempt to find love. It's no surprise that viewers are keen to know who's appearing on the show, as well as where Perfect Match is filmed, and if the show's strongest couple, Joey and Kariselle, are still together - as well as winners Georgia and Dom and last-minute pairing Nick and LC.

If you're one of those people who loves to keep up with the cast of reality TV after they leave the screen - asking which Too Hot To Handle couples are still together, who is still together from Love is Blind and checking in on whether successful couples such as Alexa and Brennnon are still together - then you're going to love Perfect Match. Let's take a look at the cast...

Perfect Match cast

Perfect Match is a brand new dating show that stars famous faces from Netflix's other reality TV series. it's presented by Nick Lachey, who co-hosts Netflix's Love Is Blind, and at the end of the series he will crown one couple the "perfect match".

Netflix says: "Perfect Match brings together the most famously single stars of Netflix’s unscripted series (Love Is Blind, The Ultimatum, Too Hot To Handle, The Mole and more) to a tropical paradise in an attempt to find love. As they compete to form relationships, the most compatible couples will play matchmaker, breaking up other couples and sending them on dates with brand-new singles they’ll invite to the villa. Will they create better matches, or will they create chaos? In this over-the-top journey of strategy and dating hosted by Nick Lachey, only one couple will be crowned the Perfect Match."

1. Francesca Farago

Previously on: Too Hot To Handle season one

After much rule breaking, Canadian contestant Francesca finally found love with fellow Too Hot To Handle cast member Harry Jowsey. The pair dated on and off after leaving the show, before calling it quits for good in May 2021.

Since then, Francesca went on to date The Only Way Is Essex star Demi Sims, and also appeared on Love Is Blind: Life After the Altar as Damian Power's date.

Many are surprised by Francesca's appearance on Perfect Match, as it appears she's been in a serious relationship with Jesse Sullivan for the last six months, with Jesse even saying on Instagram, "I cannot wait to get down on one knee for her."

Fans have concluded that Perfect Match must have been filmed before the pair got together.

2. Chloe Veitch

Previously on: Too Hot To Handle season one

Chloe starred alongside Francesca in season one of Too Hot To Handle, and also starred in the 2021 series of The Circle US.

Chloe didn't find love during her time on Too Hot To Handle but she did walk away with a chunk of the prize money, and has stayed good friends with with fellow contestant Nicole O'Brien.

Posing as herself on The Circle, Chloe had a little more success, coming in second place and being crowned 'Fan Favourite'.

Her other reality TV stints include an appearance on Channel 4's Celebrity Ghost Trip, where she was partnered with Too Hot To Handle co-star Nicole O'Brien, and Celebrity Hunted.

3. Chase DeMoor

Previously on: Too Hot To Handle season two

After beginning the second season of Too Hot To Handle happily coupled up with Canadian model Carly Lawrence, Chase was quick to jump ship after the arrival of Tabitha Cliftt. 

He was eventually beaten to the cash prize by Marvin Anthony, after Marvin showed his commitment to fellow contestant Melinda.

4. Georgia Hassarati

Previously on: Too Hot To Handle season three

Georgia Hassarati is from Brisbane, Australia. She had an on-off relationship with season one star and Francesca's ex Harry Jowsey since mid 2022, before the pair broke it off for good at the end of the year.

In an interview with The US Sun in November 2022, Harry said of his relationship with Georgia: "At the moment, Georgia and I are no longer together, but let me tell you my relationship with her was nothing short of amazing. Georgia is such an incredible human being. She is one of the most amazing people I have ever met, and I am beyond grateful we crossed paths."

5. Izzy Fairthorne

Previously on: Too Hot To Handle season three

Personal trainer Izzy was a finalist on season three of Too Hot To Handle, but she left the show single and lost out on the prize money to Harry and Beaux.

Izzy got on well with fellow Perfect Match contestant Georgia, and the pair actually broke Lana's rules together while on the show, landing themselves in hot water with their fellow cast mates.

6. Bartise Bowden

Previously on: Love is Blind season three

Although Bartise did make it out of the pods after proposing to fellow contestant Nancy, it wasn't meant to be and Bartise and Nancy from Love is Blind aren't together anymore.

Although Nancy said yes at the altar, Bartise said "I do not", causing Nancy to walk back down the aisle in tears.

Bartise has since said that he feels 'ashamed' watching the show back, but that he doesn't have any regrets.

7. Damian Powers

Previously on: Love is Blind season one

Damien Powers had little more success on Love is Blind  than Bartise when he appeared on the first season of the show.

He left the pods with then-fiance Giannina Gibelli, and though they had their ups and downs and ultimately decided against saying 'I do', they did leave the show in a committed relationship.

It wasn't meant to be however, and the couple didn't last. Unsurprisingly, Giannina was unimpressed by Francesca Farago turning up as Damien's date on After the Altar, so it will be interesting to see how the pair get along on Perfect Match.

8. Diamond Jack

Previously on: Love is Blind season one

Diamond split with her fiance Carlton before they made it to the wedding on Love is Blind, following a huge fight surrounding Carlton's sexuality. 

After Carlton proposed, he told Diamond that he'd dated men and women before, prompting Diamond saying that she felt betrayed that he didn’t tell her sooner.

And the drama didn't end there for Diamond. Before After the Altar she went on a blind date with the friend of a friend’s boyfriend, Rumeal. Rumeal ghosted her but still turned up to the reunion, and ended up spending the whole night sulking while Diamond chatted to her cast mates.

9. Lauren Chamblin

Previously on: Love is Blind season one

Lauren 'LC' also appeared on the first season of Love is Blind, and though she didn't get engaged she did close to Matthew Barnett while in the pods. However, Matthew is now married to fellow contestant Amber Pike.

Though things didn't work out on the show, LC did briefly date one of her cast members, Mark Cuevas, after filming wrapped. Mark had got all the way to the altar with fiance Jessica Batten, before saying 'I don't'.

LC has said in the past that she remains good friends with fellow Perfect Match cast member Diamond.

10. Shayne Jansen

Previously on: Love is Blind season two

Shayne was engaged to Natalie Lee during his time on Love is Blind, but the pair didn't get married after Natalie called things off in the final episode.

Though the pair did reconnect after filming for the show ended, it was not meant to be and they have since called it quits, with Natalie accusing Shayne of sending flirtatious messages to fellow cast member Shaina while they were together.

11. Calvin Crooks

Previously on: The Circle US season 3

Calvin Crooks appeared on The Circle US season 3, playing himself. He didn't have much success however, ending up blocked and exiting the show in episode 7.

After being blocked, Calvin picked another player to receive an advantage. He chose Nick, who received a second account and posed as 'Vince'. Vince was deactivated in episode 9, but Nick as himself made it to fifth place.

12. Joey Sasso - The Circle

Previously on: The Circle US season one

Joey Sasso won the first season of The Circle US. While taking part in the show, he formed a connection with fellow contestant Miranda, who he shared a kiss with after she visited him following her elimination.

Though Joey and Miranda did go on a date after The Circle, it wasn't meant to be.

13. Mitchell Eason

Previously on: The Circle season two

Mitchell took part in The Circle after his mother Tammy and brother Ed competed in the first season of the show.

Playing himself, he was added in episode 5 of the show and made it to the penultimate episode before he was blocked by Lee - who was pretending to be 'River'.

14. Nick Uhlenhuth

Previously on: The Circle US season three

Nick appeared on The Circle US alongside fellow Perfect Match cast member Calvin. Nick came in fifth place, and played himself but as a drummer, as well as 'Vince', after Calvin gave him and advantage.

He made it all the way to the final episode, where he is shocked to find that his close friend on the show 'Isabella' was actually Sophia playing her older sister.

15. Savannah Palacio

Previously on: The Circle season two

Savannah was an influencer before she joined The Circle, and already had a following on both Instagram and YouTube.

Despite playing herself, she only made it to episode four before being blocked by her fellow cast members.

Savannah has previously appeared on Netflix's game show The Floor is Lava.

16. Ines Tazi

Previously on: The Circle France

Ines Tazi appeared on The Circle France in 2020, playing herself but pretending to be single, as she was in a relationship at the time.

Despite scoring high in the first few episodes, Ines was blocked in episode 9 by eventual winner Romain.

17. Anne-Sophie Petit-Frere

Previously on: Selling Tampa

Anne-Sophie stars in the Selling Sunset spin-off Selling Tampa, in which estate agents at an all-female, black-owned agency sell luxury properties in Tampa, Florida.

She was born in Haiti before moving to America in 2005, first getting into the world of real estate when she got an entry level accounting position in a real estate property management firm during her senior year of college.

18. Colony Reeves

Previously on: Selling Tampa

Colony Reeves is one of the breakout stars of Selling Tampa. She started her career as a teacher but was inspired by her dad to get into real estate.

19. Dom Gabriel

Previously on: The Mole

The Mole on Netflix was a 2022 reboot of the classic reality show in which players complete challenges while trying to identify the one among them who's sabotaging their missions.

Contestant Dom lives in Toronto, Canada, where he works as a warehouse worker and performs as a singer-songwriter under the moniker DNTCALL. On his Instagram account, he refers to himself as 'Netflix's first rockstar'.

20. Will Richardson

Previously on: The Mole

Will starred alongside Dom in Netflix's reboot of The Mole, and went on to win the season (despite appearing to be a prime suspect at one point) by correctly guessing that Kesi Neblett was the Mole.

21. Zay Wilson

Previously on: The Ultimatum

In The Ultimatum, six couples have to make the decision to either get engaged or break up, after swapping partners for three weeks.

Zay entered the show with his girlfriend of two and a half years, Rae. Both connected with their new partners, and when Rae couldn’t give Zay reassurance that she wanted to be with him at the end of the three-week trial, he disappeared into the night and refused to answer her calls.

When he came back at 8am smelling of alcohol, Rae called time on their relationship.

22. Kariselle Snow

Previously on: Sexy Beasts

The format of Sexy Beasts sees the contestants wear prosthetics to make them look like different animals while on their dates - the idea being that it is a 'true blind date'.

Kariselle appeared as a panda on the show, but underneath the prosthetics she's a model and pageant queen.

23. Abbey Humphreys

Previously on: Twentysomethings 

Abbey joined the cast of Netflix's Twentysomethings as a recently divorced 28-year-old looking to explore her bisexuality and love after heartbreak. 

Perfect Match release date

Perfect Match will be released on Netflix in the UK on February 14th at 8am. There will be 12 episodes in total but only four are released at a time, so there are three separate release dates.

The second batch of episodes will be available on 21st February, with the final four released on 28th February.

Related features:

• Are Emily and Cam still together from Too Hot To Handle season 2?
• Which couples from Netflix’s The Ultimatum are still together? 
• Love is Blind is coming to the UK - here's how to apply

Video of the Week

Lauded by celebrities as a must-watch for Riseborough's stellar performance - here's where to watch To Leslie online.

We've officially reached that time of year again when the best TV and Film moments of the last 12 months are celebrated in a number of prestigious award ceremonies, including The Oscars 2023 and the recent 2023 BAFTA awards. Cue red carpet looks, emotional acceptance speeches and every Tom, Dick and Harry telling you to watch this unmissable screen piece. But of the latter, we really do have a recommendation of our own that you should sit down and stream immediately.

Indie flick To Leslie explores the subject of addiction through single mother Leslie protrayed by the brilliant British actress Andrea Riseborough (who most recently appeared in Netflix's Matilda the Musical) A gritty and emotional watch, Riseborough's performance has been praised by critics and viewers alike. So much so that she's up for an Oscars nod alongside hotly tipped Michelle Yeoh in Everything, Everywhere All at Once. We've shared details of where to watch To Leslie in both the UK and US.

To Leslie: Where to watch and stream it online

To Leslie is available to watch and rent via Amazon Prime, Youtube, Google Play and Apple TV in the UK and US. American audiences can also stream it on VUDU.

You'll find it cheapest to rent in Standard Definition on Amazon Prime, Google Play and Youtube for £3.49 or $6.99. Meanwhile AppleTV is offering a 4K version to rent and stream for £4.49 or $6.99. You can also stream it via VUDU - though this is exclusive to US viewers only.

If you've watched the film and want to buy and keep the film forever in your collection, pick it up for £7.99 at Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Google Play and Youtube.

To Leslie was acquired by Momentum Pictures in September 2022 and was later released on demand and select cinemas on October 7. The film enjoyed it's world premiere at the Texas-based South by Southwest film festival in March 2022.

What is To Leslie about? Plot details

The official synopsis for To Leslie reads: "Years after a lottery win, a West Texas single mother is alone, living hard at the bottom of a bottle. Nowhere left to go, she is forced to come home and confront her past."

The film opens with Leslie being evicted from a filthy motel room. After a few cursory words to the other residents and manager, she packs herself and her life up (one pink hardshell suitcase) and heads for the streets. Dirty, downtrodden and bruised she boards a bus and is picked up by her son James. Though this marks just the start of her sofa-surfing tale and struggle with alcohol.

To Leslie: Cast list

• Andrea Riseborough (Birdman, Nancy) as Leslie Rowlands
• Allison Janney (Lou, I Tonya) as Nancy
• Marc Maron (GLOW, WTF with Marc Maron) as Sweeney
• Andre Royo (The Wire, Empire) as Royal
• Owen Teague (It, The Stand) as James
• Stephen Root (Barry, Get Out) as Dutch
• James Landry Hebert (Westworld) as Pete
• Catfish Jean (Survivor's Remorse) as Darren
• Scott Subiono (The Tragedy of Macbeth) as Rancher Glen

Riseborough's performance in the film has been heavily praised by a number of Hollywood stars, who believe the 41-year-old Brit should be recognised in upcoming award ceremonies like the Oscars.

Gwyneth Paltrow was left "stunned" by Riseborough's portrayal and is cheering her on "to win every award there is and all the ones that haven’t been invented yet". In a recent Q&A with the film's star, Kate Winslet also hailed it as "one of the greatest performances I have ever seen in my life."

Then at the Critics Choice Award in January, Best Actress winner Cate Blanchett called out Riseborough's 'extraordinary' performance in To Leslie. 

Andrea Riseborough's co-star Allison Janney has also promoted the film and the lead star, telling people to "please go find this gem".

To Leslie - Reviews

To Leslie has a 98% 'fresh' critic's rating on Rotten Tomatoes' Tomatometer, with a audience score of 85%. "To Leslie's familiar framework is granted extra depth through a stellar Andrea Riseborough and a sensitive and nuanced approach to the cycle of addiction," reads their critic's consensus.

Matt Zoller Seitz gave it 3.5 stars on RogerEbert.com, singling out one moment in To Leslie that is "up there" with the likes of Robert De Niro's turn in Goodfellas: "The film's tour-de-force, for the lead actress as well as the filmmakers, is an unbroken tracking shot of Leslie sitting at a bar at closing time, listening to a song whose lyrics seem to be a withering comment on her life ("Is this a joke?" she says to the ceiling)."

The Los Angeles Times also highlighted the lead actress's work in their review of the film. "Riseborough is a dynamo, making sure that even at her worst, Leslie has enough personality and humanity that the audience roots for her just to get through another day," writes Noel Murray.

All in all - the verdict is out: To Leslie is a film not to be missed.

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Video of the Week

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, has been crowned the UK’s most-watched subscription TV series of the year.

• Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, shot to the top of Netflix charts soon after its release and has now become the UK’s most-watched subscription TV series of the year.
•  The show's first episode was watched by 4.5 million people in the first week of its release.
• The royal news follows reports that the house in Netflix’s Harry & Meghan is not actually Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s home.

After 2021's explosive Oprah interview, many royal watchers were wondering how Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could possibly expose any more royal secrets. Then came the couple's bombshell Netflix docuseries, Harry and Meghan.

After much speculation, the series finally premiered on December 8th 2022, marking the first Netflix collaboration of many with the couple's production company, Archewell Productions.  

The show sparked many conversations, with supporters on both sides of the argument jumping in to have their say. Quickly, the show shot up to the top of the Netflix charts and has now become the UK’s most-watched subscription TV series of the year.

The Times reports that Harry & Meghan's debut episode, which came as part of the first of two three-episode instalments, was viewed by 4.5 million people in the week following its release. To put that in context, viewing figures for episode one Netflix's The Crown Season 5 sat at 2.8 million, around half of that garnered by Harry & Meghan.

Harry & Meghan also far outperformed top-rated episodes of other Netflix hits; Ricky Gervais' After Life hit 4.1 million, Stranger Things reached 3.9 million, and the streaming platforms smash hit Bridgerton sits at 3.4 million.

While the Netflix figures are staggering, when they are compared to non-subscription channels, so TV channels, the figures seem much smaller. Comparing Harry & Meghan’s numbers to shows like the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and ITV’s I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, the royal docuseries reached less than half the audience who tuned into watch live TV. 

A testament to Netflix's drop in subscribers, another planned Archewell Productions series, Pearl, an animated show created by Meghan, was cancelled.

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Meghan Markle has praised Archie's former nanny, Lorren Khumalo, for taking care of her family when she moved into Frogmore Cottage with Prince Harry.

• Meghan Markle has praised Archie's former nanny, Lorren Khumalo, for taking care of her when she was still living at Frogmore Cottage with Prince Harry. 
• The Zimbabwean nurse was hired by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex four months after the birth of their first child. 
• In other royal news, Grinch comes to Prince George and Princess Charlotte's school for 'amazing' Christmas festival.
  

Meghan Markle has hailed Archie's former nanny for taking care of her family when she and Prince Harry first moved into Frogmore Cottage in Windsor.

Speaking in their new Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex describe their experience of hiring Lorren Khumalo as their four-month-old's first childminder. The royal couple quickly hit it off with the pediatric nurse, who primarily looked after Archie while they fulfilled their work duties as senior members of the Royal Family. 

"She just took care of not just Archie, but of us," Meghan revealed. "She definitely took care of me."

"She was brilliant," Harry agreed. 

The couple also revealed that Lorren, who is from Zimbabwe, asked Meghan if she could tie Archie onto her back with a mud cloth. The Duchess was instantly taken by the idea, replying "Of course! Let's do that." 

Lorren also appears in the Netflix docuseries, speaking publicly about what it was like to work for Harry and Meghan for the first time. She admits she needed to "sit down" after receiving the life-changing news that the celebrity couple wanted to hire her. 

"I had this phone call, and they were like, Prince Harry and Meghan would like to see you, and speak to you about looking after Archie. I was like, Hang on a minute, I need to sit down," Lorren recalls. The health worker was so excited by the job prospect that she received a speeding ticket en route to Frogmore Cottage, where she would meet Harry and Meghan for the first time. When she saw the duke "walking barefoot" on arrival, she instantly became comfortable. 

"Suddenly, the formality slid and I felt so at ease," Lorren says. "They were really hands-on parents." 

The ex-royal nanny also admits she initially didn't know what to pack for Archie on the Sussexes' tour to South Africa in 2019, which occurred "early" in her employment. 

"I'm like, what do I pack for a small prince?" she says. On this same tour, Archie's nursery caught fire while Harry and Meghan were at an engagement. Thankfully, he was in the safe hands of Lorren at the time of the blaze and remained unharmed. 

As royal fans react to the second half of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's new Netflix docuseries, there's one question that seems to be on everyone's minds - why does Meghan keep calling Prince Harry 'H'? 

• Royal fans are wondering why Meghan Markle keeps calling Prince Harry 'H' in their bombshell new Netflix documentary. 
• The Duchess of Sussex addresses and refers to her husband by his initial throughout the docuseries, leaving many viewers wondering how the nickname originated. 
• In other royal news, Doria Ragland on why Harry can't protect Meghan Markle in emotional Netflix interview.
  

It's no secret that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have set the Internet alight with their new Netflix docuseries, after dropping major bombshells about their experience of leaving the Royal Family.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex released three more episodes of Harry & Meghan on Thursday, much to the excitement of their devout fanbase. 

The six-part series, which was directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Liz Garbus, gives viewers an intensive insight into the couple's journey from their early courtship in 2016 to their withdrawal from the Royal Family in 2020. 

It also explores the history of the British monarchy and the alleged mistreatment of Meghan Markle at the hands of the 1000-year-old institution and the media that surrounds it. Aside from their CBS interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021, Harry & Meghan is largely considered to be the first time the Sussexes have shared their side of the story with the world. 

The documentary includes several interviews with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle themselves, most of which appear to take place at the couple's £14 million mansion in Santa Barbara. In many of these on-camera conversations, the duchess refers to her husband as 'H' or 'Haz', rather than Harry. Fans are now wondering when Meghan started calling the prince by his initial and what the origins of this unique nickname really are. 

It was first revealed that the duchess calls Prince Harry 'H' in 2019 after she casually referred to her husband during an interview with a British journalist. 

Speaking to Tom Bradby on the ITV documentary, Harry and Meghan: An African Journey, Meghan revealed that she doesn't normally call Harry by his known moniker. The former Suits star disclosed the fun fact after she was asked how she was coping with the royal spotlight a year on from her wedding. 

"I have said for a long time to H - that is what I call him - it's not enough to just survive something, that's not the point of life," she responded. "You have got to thrive. You have got to feel happy, and I think I really tried to adopt this British sensibility of a stiff upper lip."

It's not exactly clear, however, why Meghan calls Prince Harry 'H.' She is also heard in the docuseries referring to him as 'Haz', which has reportedly long been the royal's nickname amongst his social circle. 

Funnily enough, even if Meghan were to call her husband 'Harry', it would technically still be a nickname. King Charles III and the late Princess Diana called the Duke of Sussex 'Henry Charles Albert David' at birth, after coming to a compromise over their youngest son's name. It's understood that Charles wanted Harry to be called 'Arthur', but the Princess of Wales felt it sounded 'too old.' They settled on Henry, but Harry was the name that ultimately stuck.  

Meghan Markle's half siblings, Samantha and Thomas Markle Jr, have branded the Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, as "a little bit disturbing" and "hurtful" towards their family.

• Meghan Markle's half siblings have spoken out against some of the claims made by their sister in the newly released docuseries, Harry & Meghan.
• The pair have said that Meghan 'lied about not having a family' and labelled Meghan and Prince Harry's claims as 'just ridiculous'.
• In other royal news, Prince Harry reveals the real way he and Meghan Markle first met in Netflix series and it's so relatable

Meghan Markle's paternal half-siblings, Samantha and Thomas Markle Jr., have labelled their sister's Netflix docuseries 'Harry & Meghan' "horrible," "hurtful," and "a little bit disturbing."

Appearing on Talk TV with Piers Morgan, the siblings described the first volume of episodes as "hurtful" towards the family, with the pair calling Meghan and Prince Harry's claims that she doesn't have a family "ridiculous."

Samantha and Thomas took a particular issue with Prince Harry's bold claims from episode three, where he blamed himself for Meghan's rift with her father. In the episode, Harry said, "if Meg wasn't with me then her dad would still be her dad.

"She had a father before this, and now she doesn't have a father. And I shouldered that." Responding to Harry's statement, Thomas Markle Jr. told Talk TV, "I think it's horrible. The documentary is so far off on so many different levels, it's really a little bit disturbing.

"Saying that she doesn't have a family and she doesn't have a father, and Harry saying that she has no father now, that's just ridiculous. She just basically brushed the entire family under the carpet like we don't exist, and then lied about not having a family".

In another interview with GB News, speaking with Dan Wootton, Meghan's half sister Samantha accused Meghan of being dishonest throughout the series. Samantha's daughter, Meghan's niece, Ashleigh Hale, was interviewed for the Netflix project and in it described her and Meghan's bond as one of sisters.

In the docuseries, Ashleigh revealed the reason she was not to invited to Harry and Meghan's wedding, saying, "I was hurt on some level but I understood where it was coming from. To know that [I was not invited] because of my biological mother, that this relationship so important to me was impacted in that way. I feel like because of her it was taken away. It's been hard."

However, Samantha claimed that Meghan manipulated Ashleigh and said that she was not the reason Ashleigh did not receive an invite to the wedding. Speaking to GB News, Samantha revealed, "Ashleigh was lied to and my sister in fact was the one reportedly who told Ashleigh she couldn't go to the wedding.

"So I felt like she was manipulating my daughter, and that's really sad because my daughter seemingly was holding a grudge and feeling like I was the reason she couldn't come to the wedding."

The backlash comes just days after Netflix released the first three episodes of Harry & Meghan on Thursday the 8th December. The six-part docuseries has been split into two volumes, with the final three episodes due for release on Thursday the 15th December.

Related articles:

• Prince Harry's 'insecurity' revealed by Body Language expert
• Who is Samantha Markle's daughter Ashleigh Hale? Everything to know about Meghan Markle's niece
• Prince Harry reveals the real way he and Meghan Markle first met in Netflix series and it's so relatable
• Prince Harry's sad reality over Archie and Lilibet's lost chance - 'it was never to be'
• How the timing of Meghan and Harry's Netflix series could tarnish something special for Kate Middleton

Just when you thought you'd tried all the on-demand streaming services, ITV is launching ITVX and it could make you re-think how you choose to watch your favourite TV shows.

If you've already got Netflix, or are saving money on Amazon Prime or Disney+ there is a new platform you're going to want to check out.

When it officially launches from 8th December, it is set to steam David Tennant's Litvinenko , A Spy Among Friends and in 2023 new drama Nolly starring Helena Bonham Carter.

So we look at all you need to know ahead of its debut...

What is ITVX?

ITVX is a new on-demand streaming service that is going to be packed with content from ITV1 and also ITV digital channels and licensed content, giving viewers more choice. It will have substantially more exclusive programming than ITV Hub, positioning ITV's digitial offerering more in line with its competitors - the BBC and Channel 4. ITVX includes access to BritBox and a selection of FAST channels, which will see programmes such as The Chase and Hell's Kitchen have their own virtual linear channels.

Carolyn McCall, ITV’s chief executive said, "The digital acceleration we are announcing today builds on everything we have achieved in phase one of our More Than TV strategy.  ITVX will be a free service supported by adverts, with a compelling subscription proposition.  This is fantastic for viewers -  it will provide a simplified and seamless experience with thousands of hours of free content made up of both library and original exclusive content.  The subscription tier will provide a premium offering and includes all of the content ad-free as well as BritBox and future SVOD content partners.

She added, “We are supercharging our streaming business, fundamentally shifting our focus to think digital first, as well as optimising our broadcast channels, by continuing to attract unrivalled mass audiences.  In doing so we are responding to changing viewing habits, but also the evolving needs from our advertisers.  This will enable ITV to continue to be both commercial viewers and advertisers’ first choice.”

How do I get ITVX?

You can get ITVX on the following Television platforms; Sony Bravia, BT TV, Freesat, Now TV / Roku, Sky, Samsung Smart TV & Blu-ray players, Virgin Media and YouView. It can be streamed on Games consoles including, PlayStation 3, Xbox One and Xbox 360 and the following mobile platforms - Android devices, iOS devices and Windows Phone. Plus other streaming services like Amazon Prime Video.

Rufus Radcliffe, ITV’s Managing Director of Streaming, said, “2021 was a record year for ITV Hub and BritBox, giving us strong foundations from which to supercharge our streaming strategy. We are investing significantly in new and exclusive programmes which will be free to stream, and also in technology and product design to make the viewer experience and interface a premium one on ITVX.”

How much will ITVX cost?

ITVX is free for people who watch the ad-supported tier and they can access 9,000 hours of TV. But if viewers want to go ad-free they can choose to pay £5.99 a month or £59.99 a year to gain access to additional shows and boxsets from BritBox. 

Can I watch ITVX on my TV?

Yes, according to ITV you can watch ITVX on Samsung Smart TVs (models from 2016 onwards) and Roku TV's. But if you have another model, fear not, as you can watch content on the app via the Amazon Fire TV stick, FreeView Play, or NOW TV. But if that's not enough, you can cast to your TV from your iOS device, phone and tablets, android phones and tablets and Sky Glass.

Related ITV content:

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• ITV crime drama Karen Pirie: How many episodes are there and when is it on?

Video of the week

Step aside The Crown season 5, the real royal drama is set to arrive when Harry and Meghan's Netflix series starts airing...

The release of Prince Harry and Meghan's Netflix series trailer in December caused quite a stir on both sides of the pond, as fans reacted to never-before-seen intimate photos of the couple, plus a hidden detail or two spotted in the trailer. "When the stakes are this high, doesn't it make more sense to hear our story from us?" says Meghan in the concluding scene, and it's this quote which has many royal experts claiming that the docuseries will add “further fuel talk of a rivalry” between the two British Princes.

It's looking like viewers won't have to wait too much longer to hear Harry and Meghan's account of the Royal Family fallout, plus details of their new life in their glamourous LA home. We've shared what we know so far of a release date, the number of episodes, plus how much Harry and Meghan got paid from Netflix (topping up Prince Harry's net worth)

When does Harry and Meghan's Netflix series start?

Netflix have confirmed that Harry and Meghan's Netflix series will start on December 8, 2022. The docuseries will be split into two volumes, with the second part arriving on Netflix on December 15.

A second trailer on December 5, teased the official release date and gave audiences further insight into what the documentary will cover. In the trailer Prince Harry tells the cameras how initial public adoration for Meghan later turned sour and that they had to leave to "protect" his family.

The official Netflix synopsis describes Harry and Meghan's Netflix series as exploring "the span of their relationship, from the early days of the couple’s courtship to the challenges and controversies that prompted them to step back from the royal family. The series includes interviews with family and friends who’ve never spoken publicly about the couple’s relationship before, as well as historians and journalists who dissect how media influenced Harry and Meghan’s relationship with the royal family and the Commonwealth at large."

Fans certainly welcomed more of an inside glimpse of the couple's relationship in the first trailer, which featured a selection of private black and white snaps of the two together. Harry and Meghan can be seen smiling on holiday and spending time with their dogs. Another photo showed the two on the dancefloor at their 2018 wedding at Frogmore.

How many episodes of Harry and Meghan's Netflix series?

Netflix have confirmed that there will be a total of six episodes in Harry and Meghan's Netflix series. It's fair to assume that the first three will be released as part of Volume 1 on December 8, with the final three episodes following December 15.

A lot of creative talent are attached to the making of the docuseries episodes - with two-time Academy Award–nominated and Emmy-winning director Liz Garbus behind the lens. She owns production company The Story Syndicate and was involved in the recent Netflix documentary BRITNEY VS SPEARS. Other notable doumentaries include Becoming Cousteau, Love, Marilyn and What Happened, Miss Simone? - for which she picked up an Emmy.

Executive producers include Erica Sashin, Mark Monroe, Dan Cogan, Ben Browning, Chanel Pysnik, Jon Bardin, Mala Chapple and Angus Wall. 

Where can I watch the Harry and Meghan documentary?

It's been billed as a "Netflix Global Event" which means audiences across the world will be able to watch the Harry and Meghan documentary series on Netflix - no matter what country they're in.

You'll need a Netflix subscription to stream the full series, which will set UK viewers back £6.99 for a basic plan, £11.99 for a standard plan or £15.99 for a premium tier plan. Netflix recently raised their prices in 2022 and there's talk that the streamer might start charging customers who share their passwords too.

Video of the Week

When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry dropped the trailer for their Netflix documentary series during Prince William and Kate Middleton's trip to Boston, the royals' American fans were not too happy.

• Royal fans who were waiting to meet Prince William and Kate Middleton in Boston yesterday have shared their anger over Meghan Markle and Prince Harry releasing the trailer for their long-awaited Netflix series during the royals' trip.
• Royal insiders have since revealed that Harry and Meghan chose to release the trailer during the Prince and Princess of Wales’ US visit in order 'to sabotage' the trip.
• The royal news follows Prince Harry and Meghan dropping the trailer for their Netflix series, giving an intimate glimpse into their life

Media outlets globe-wide have been sent into frenzy since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle dropped the trailer for their upcoming Netflix documentary series. But the trailer, filled with never-before-seen photographs of the couple playing over soundbites that hint at some serious accusations to come, has already received some backlash from royal fans. 

Speaking to the BBC, royal fans who waiting to get a glimpse of Prince William and Kate Middleton during their long-awaited trip to Boston, have blasted Harry and Meghan for 'spoiling' William and Kate's US visit. 

The royal fans lining the Boston streets believed that the couple had been blindsided by the trailer, with many of them questioning the timing of the trailer's release.

One fan argued that Harry and Meghan should have let William and Kate "have their moment".  Speaking to the BBC's royal correspondent, Danielle Ralph, she said, "Let everyone have their moment. Kate and William right now, the Prince and Princess of Wales, are having their moment here in Boston to make a change for the better."

Another fan told the BBC that "we all have to unite together," in the wake of a racism row engulfing the Royal Family.

Speaking about the timing of the Netflix trailer's release, royal insiders told The Times that the timing was purposeful and that Harry and Meghan were attempting to sabotage the Prince and Princess of Wales’ US visit.

Despite the wavering publicity, William and Kate have continued their Boston trip with grace. Yesterday, 2nd December, President Joe Biden met with the Prince of Wales at the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum in Boston, where the pair shared “warm memories” of the late Queen Elizabeth II, according to Kensington Palace. 

Later that night, William and Kate attended the star-studded award ceremony for William's Earthshot Prize Award ceremony. The project awarded $1 million prizes to a variety of winners that work on projects focused on resolving climate issues.

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• Meghan Markle reveals how Prince Harry helped shaped her podcast, Archetypes
• Senior police officer reveals the "disgusting and very real" threats Meghan Markle received from far-right groups
• Did you spot the hidden detail in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Netflix trailer?
• Prince William and Kate Middleton's ‘precious’ moment with boy dressed as a King’s Guard is just too sweet

Season 5 of Netflix's The Crown follows the breakdown of Prince Charles and Princess Diana's marriage, including Charles' affair with Camilla Parker Bowles, leading many to wonder what was in Princess Diana’s divorce settlement.

• Season 5 of The Crown sees Princess Diana ask for £35m as part of her divorce settlement with the then Prince Charles
• As The Crown is known for it's exaggerated storylines, many viewers have been left wondering how much Princess Diana actually received as part of her divorce settlement
• In other royal news, many fans of The Crown are wondering who is Princess Diana’s friend Dr. James Colthurst and who plays him in The Crown?

The Crown's fifth season, despite all the controversy surrounding it, has lit up Netflix screens once more, this time to follow the highly publicised breakdown of Princess Diana and Prince Charles' marriage.  

Set in the 1990's, season five see's Princess Diana, played by Elizabeth Debicki, and Prince Charles, played by Dominic West, as they navigate a royal separation, the then Prince’s affair with Camilla Parker Bowles, and the infamous scandal of Camillagate.

Following their decision to divorce, The Crown shows Princess Diana asking for £35m as part of her divorce settlement. But how true is the storyline? 

It's not too far off, though definitely exaggerated. In reality, when the divorce was finalised in 1996, Diana was reported to have received a lump sum of £17m, plus an additional £400,000 per year.

In addition, Diana was also permitted to keep her title of Princess of Wales, but did have to give up the title of Her Royal Highness. The Queen was allegedly more than happy for Diana to keep the title, but the then Prince Charles was rumoured to have pushed for its removal. 

At the time of their divorce, Buckingham Palace released a statement to say that Diana would continue to be “regarded as a member of the royal family” and “will from time to time receive invitations to state and national public occasions.”

Alongside the divorce settlement, the former royal couple also had to come to an agreement regarding their two children, Prince William and Prince Harry. This decision was said to be a straightforward one, with Charles and Diana both being given equal custody of their sons. The arrangement made the well-established, but unofficial, custody agreement that the pair had been using throughout their four-year long seperation official.

Diana was also allowed to keep her apartment at Kensington Palace, with apartments eight and nine also being entrusted for her exclusive use. She was also allowed to continue using the state apartments at St James’s Palace.

Last, but by no means least, Princess Diana was also allowed continuing access to the royal family’s private jets, with The Independent reporting the decision was made "so she could continue to travel in the style to which she was accustomed."

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• Princess Diana’s private secretary Patrick Jephson fact-checks The Crown Season 5 and shares what “was made up”

Season 5 sees brand new character Penny Knatchbull introduced to the Royal saga, leaving viewers wondering who she is - we have the lowdown.

After waiting just shy of two years for The Crown season 5 to land on Netflix, the wait is finally over. The usual extra time is needed to watch a single episode, caused by the inevitable pausing the show to search if an event really did happen, and absolutely everything about it. Fans can’t get enough of the chaotic Royals, and watching their lives unfold in a long and luxurious series of episodes is ultimate TV viewing. Although the cast of the hit series changes every two years to reflect the aging dynasty, occasionally new characters are added to the lineup. For season 5, Prince Philip’s friend and newly introduced Penny Knatchbull is subject to the pause and search phenomenon the show induces. To help with this, we have everything you need to know about Penny Knatchbull, and the actress who plays her.  

While viewers research the real circumstances surrounding events depicted in the show, the debate continues around how much of The Crown is true or fake - celebrities continue to weigh in on the argument. Such is the intensity of speculation surrounding the truth of the series, Netflix released a statement defending The Crown as a dramatisation of historical events. While some fans ask did the Queen watch The Crown, Prince Philip himself made his feelings on it very clear - his answer when asked if he'd seen it, is just what you'd expect.

Who is Prince Philip’s friend Penny Knatchbull?

Penny Knatchbull’s official title is Penelope Meredith Mary Knatchbull, Countess Mountbatten of Burma. She was a lifelong friend and confidante to Prince Philip. Her mother Patricia Knatchbull was third cousin to the Queen. 

She was born Penelope Meredith Mary Eastwood in London, and is the only daughter of Angus Steakhouse founder Reginald Eastwood. She grew up and attended schools in Switzerland, until leaving to study at the London School of Economics. According to People, Penny was known as the "keeper of secrets" for Prince Philip, with a close friendship forming immediately, when the pair met in 1974. 

Although there was a 32-year age gap between Penny and the Prince, the 2020 biography Prince Philip Revealed penned by Ingrid Seward, claimed Penny was “second-most important woman in the Duke of Edinburgh's life - a constant confidante, and loyal companion.” The book also weighed on a dance the two shared at a ball, with the author describing "When I saw Philip and Penny gilding around the dance floor at the Royal Yacht Squadron Ball during Cowes Week, neither of them gave a damn who saw them or what anyone might say”.

Penny and Philip frequently took part in carriage driving competitions together, and she became a frequent visitor to the Royal Windsor Horse Show as a guest of the Royals. She was one of only 30 mourners in attendance at Philip’s funeral April 17, 2021 as numbers were severely restricted due to COVID-19 regulations. She was also present at the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II on September 19, 2022.

Penny Knatchbull: Husband

Penny Knatchbull’s husband is Norton Louis Philip Knatchbull, 3rd Earl Mountbatten of Burma - he was Prince Philip’s godson. 

The pair married in 1979, with Prince Charles acting as best man. Their wedding took place just two months after the death of Norton's grandfather Lord Mountbatten, who was murdered by the IRA. The event, covered in an earlier season of The Crown, saw the Earl lose his brother Nicholas and grandmother, Lady Brabourne, when a bomb was planted on the family's fishing boat on a trip to County Sligo.

Until 2005, Norton was known as Lord Romsey, and until 2017 as The 8th Baron Brabourne. He was educated at the Dragon School in Oxford, and later Gordonstoun in Scotland - the school Prince Charles famously despised. After graduating from University of Kent, Norton followed his father into the film industry working as a location manager. He is a descendant of Queen Victoria - his maternal great-great-grandmother Princess Alice was Queen Victoria’s daughter. Norton is also godfather to William, the Prince of Wales. 

Is Penny Knatchbull still married?

Penny Knatchbull remains married to Norton Knatchbull, despite him allegedly having an affair between 2010 - 2014.

It is believed Norton even left Penny for a time to be with his mistress. However, he has reportedly been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and has returned to the family home of Broadlands in Hampshire. He has not been seen publicly for several years. 

According to Cosmopolitan, the latest season of The Crown is set to depict Penny and Philip in "in intimate scenes", and pursuing an affair together. Those close to Penny are said to be angry at this portrayal, with the Queen’s former press secretary Dickie Arbiter saying "coming just weeks after the nation laid Her Majesty to rest next to Prince Philip, this is very distasteful and, quite frankly, cruel rubbish. The truth is that Penny was a long time friend of the whole family. Netflix is not interested in people’s feelings". 

Penny Knatchbull: Daughter Leonora Knatchbull

Penny Knatchbull sadly lost a daughter, Leonora, to kidney cancer at the age of 5. She has one surviving daughter, Lady Alexandra Victoria Edwina Diana Knatchbull. She also has a son, Nicholas Louis Charles Norton Knatchbull, Lord Brabourne.

Leonora Knatchbull was the third and youngest child of Penny and Norton, born on June 25, 1986. Tragically, Leonora developed kidney cancer, and passed away at the age of five at St. Bartholomew's Hospital on October 22, 1991. She is buried at her family's estate of Broadlands in Hampshire, and in 1994, Norton and Penelope set up Leonora Children's Cancer Fund in her memory. 

Lady Alexandra was born on 5 December 1982, and her godmother was Princess Diana. She married PCEO of Third Space Learning Thomas Hooper, on 25 June 2016. They have two sons together, Inigo Norton Sebastian Mountbatten Hooper (born December 21, 2017) and Alden Peter Theodore Mountbatten Hooper (born March 27, 2020).

Who plays Penny Knatchbull in The Crown season 5?   

Penny Knatchbull is played by Natascha McElhone in The Crown season 5. The 50-year-old actress is best known for appearances in The Truman Show, and Designated Survivor. 

Speaking to Radio Times about her character's relationship with Philip role on the iconic show, McElhone said "Well, I’m loath to say, because I hope it’s on the screen. I think that’s the point of the exploration, probably. What I loved about it is we so rarely see a man and a woman on screen who have a deep friendship where romance is not alluded to. The richness of those friendships, that loyalty. Our story starts because he really sees her when she’s in deep pain and in grief, and he reaches out a hand and gives her a nudge back into life".

She added "There’s a strange assumption that as soon as you see a man and a woman together, you assume that they’re romantically involved, so that exploration felt really appropriate. It’s being looked at as a wild idea, but what happens if they’re just friends. I don’t want to put 'just' in front of it, because friends can be everything. So that was the way I approached it".

Related Netflix Features:

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Video of the Week

Friends of the late Princess Diana have spoken out against Netflix show The Crown ahead of its season five release, calling the show's creators ‘entitled’ and ‘insensitive’ for recreating Princess Diana's last living moments

• Friends of the late Princess Diana have spoken out after claims that the cast of crew of Netflix's The Crown were spotted filming scenes in a black Mercedes just 100 yards from the Alma tunnel, Paris
• The Alma tunnel is where Princess Diana tragically died in 1997
• The royal news follows claims that reliving memories in Netflix’s new season of The Crown will be “incredibly hard" for Prince Harry and Prince William

Netflix's royal drama, The Crown is full of scandal, but as the fifth season gets ready to air, that scandal appears to be slipping off screen and into real life. The latest in a series of backlash, close friends of the late Princess Diana have spoken out against the show as Netflix's plans to depict the moments leading up to her death have been revealed.

The criticism came after reports that the show had been filming scenes where Elizabeth Debicki, the actress who plays the late Diana, could be seen in a black Mercedes just 100 yards from the Alma tunnel, Paris - where Princess Diana was tragically killed in a car accident in 1997. 

The new trailer for The Crown's upcoming fifth series, which will be released on the 9th of November 2022, shows yet more of Princess Diana's most vulnerable moments being recreated. The trailer shows that the upcoming season plans to focus on the breakdown of the late princess' and the now King Charles' marriage, including Diana's infamous and highly controversial Panorama interview.

While Netflix bosses have confirmed that the "exact moment" of the fatal crash will not be shown on screen, those close to the late princess still see it as a violation. 

Diana's astrologer, Debbie Frank, feels that the release of the Netflix series will be 'terrible' for Prince William and Prince Harry to process, dubbing the show's creators as 'insensitive' and 'entitled.'

She told the Mail, "It's obviously terrible for Diana's children to have to see that again. It's insensitive. I feel Diana's death and the crash was the biggest shock our generation. It had such a huge impact across the national psyche.

“I guess the makers of The Crown feel they are entitled to show a re-enactment of scenes leading up to her death and that it has dramatic impact. But relatives would think otherwise."

Debbie's comments follow those of another close friend of Diana's, who claimed that the mere existence of the Netflix series forced Prince William and Harry to relive "the most painful time" of their lives.

Simone Simmons told The Sun, "These are cruel, sadistic and wicked people to recreate these moments. They are the lowest of the low. They are rewriting history as they go along and that’s what makes me very angry."

Simone went on to ask why "these callous, insensitive people" would ever feel the need to recreate "that horrible day" on screen.

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• When was Princess Diana born and who were her parents?

When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry began filming their highly anticipated docuseries, no one would have guessed that its release would come just months after the Queen's death. Now, edits have to be made and an insider has revealed exactly what is being taken out.

• Meghan Markle and Prince Harry face a tough decision about their upcoming docuseries, a decision that will seemingly decide whether or not the family rift will be healed
• An insider has revealed that the pair are in the process of softening certain statements made throughout filming and are also adding details about Queen Elizabeth’s legacy
• In other royal news, Meghan Markle ‘comes into her own when she is alone’ according to expert

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could have never guessed that when they signed their multimillion dollar book and docuseries deals, that both projects would be set for release mere months after the death of Queen Elizabeth. 

Now, with changes in the The Firm, the royal line of succession and the minds and hearts of the nation, Meghan and Harry are left making some quick and important edits to ensure nothing they say reads as too insensitive. 

While there was never any doubts as to how the late Queen would be portrayed in both Harry's memoir and the pair's Netflix show, as both have always expressed their unwavering admiration for her, King Charles is now on the throne, and we know how the pair feel about him.

So, considering Harry has publicly confirmed there are tensions between him and his father, it is unsurprising that an insider has now confirmed exactly what is being revised in both the docuseries and memoir - the Charles content.

According to Us Weekly, both Harry and Meghan have decided to soften any content relating to Charles and will continue to change their approach when it comes to how the King will be portrayed in their upcoming projects. 

An insider told the outlet, “They’ve both [Harry and Meghan] agreed to reach a neutral ground by softening the parts on Charles and adding intimate details about [Queen Elizabeth’s] legacy."

The source added that the pair is hoping to keep the tone of their projects, “interesting without crossing a line.”

In addition, parts about Camilla, Queen Consort, Prince William, and Kate Middleton will also be revised, the source explained. “He’s [Harry's] so grateful to Meghan for her input and they make all of these big decisions together, so of course there’s that balancing act of weighing up pros and cons to consider.

And it goes the other way, too—he’s equally involved in her big picture, they’re very much at one that way and maintain they always will be.” 

A second source added, “Meghan moved to America to have a voice and feels it’s important for Harry to speak up about matters close to his heart, including his family.”

In her recent cover story with Variety, Meghan commented on the docuseries, revealing that while it may not be exactly what she thought it would be like, she had a good time creating it.

She said, "It’s nice to be able to trust someone with our story - a seasoned director whose work I’ve long admired - even if it means it may not be the way we would have told it. But that’s not why we’re telling it. We’re trusting our story to someone else, and that means it will go through their lens."

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The Crown season 5 is coming out sooner than you think! We reveal the confirmed release date and stellar cast signed up to appear as the next breed of royals in the hit Netflix drama.

It's been a long old wait for fans of The Crown and the upcoming fifth season. Season 4 dropped to high praise and fanfare in November 2020 and for the past two years audiences have been slowly drip fed details of the next installment. First came confirmation of the new The Crown cast members taking over the respective royal roles on screen - and in August 2021 we were treated to our first glimpse of Imelda Staunton as the Queen on set.

Fast forward a year and September 2022 brought news of a release date. And as we inch closer to it arriving on screens, producers treated fans to an epic The Crown season 5 trailer in October, with a whole 2 and a half minutes of action to feast our eyes on. With just a few weeks to go now, we share the all important details of when The Crown season 5 is coming out, plus details of cast and story timelines. 

When is The Crown season 5 coming out?

The Crown season 5 will be released at 8am on November 9, 2022. From this date all episodes will be available to stream exclusively on Netflix.

A November 2022 release date was first confirmed by new cast member Imelda Staunton back in September 2021. The actress, sat at a desk on the set of the fifth series shared the release date in the style of the Queen's annual Christmas Day message. It wasn't until September 24, 2022 - that the official date was confimed as November 9.

According to Deadline, production of the beloved Netflix show was not affected by the pandemic. With the cast and crew able to follow the same production schedule that was in place for prior seasons.

Imelda Staunton was spotted in her new role in the Netflix series back in July 2021 and fans were additionally given a first-look of Prince Charles and Princess Diana in the show during filming that same summer. 

Official first look images - coutresy of Netflix - were kept under wraps for some time, only being released in October of this year as anticipation builds for it's release. The trailer then followed on November 20 and it's safe to say that the response was overwhelmingly positive from fans.

How many episodes of The Crown season 5?

There is likely to be 10 episodes in The Crown season 5. The previous four series have each had 10 episodes each. And it is expected that the same number will apply to series 5 and 6.

Each episode will last around 60 minutes in length - as is the precedent with episodes from the show's previous seasons.

What time period will The Crown season 5 cover?

The Crown season 5 time period will carry on where season 4 ended - in the 1990s. The noughties was a decade packed with royal drama surrounding key figures like Princess Diana and Princes Charles, as well as the Queen herself.

Audiences are expected to see a new Prime Minister in this time period too. John Major replaced Margaret Thatcher at Downing Street in 1990. He stayed in office till 1997 when his successor, Tony Blair, took over.

Each season of The Crown typically centres on a ten or 12-year period, with series four following the events from 1977 to 1990. This included the arrival of Diana and her wedding to Charles. And it is thought their relationship will be further explored in season 5.

Who will play Queen Elizabeth II in The Crown season 5?

Veteran British stage and screen actress Imelda Staunton will play the Queen in season 5. She replaces Olivia Colman as the monarch and main character.

You may recognise Imelda for her roles in Harry Potter, Nanny McPhee, Shakespeare in Love and Cranford. She's also married to Downton Abbey's Mr Carlson (Jim Carter) in real life.

Staunton recently told BBC's Woman Hour her fears on playing such a well-known and well-loved figure. "I think my sort of extra challenge, as if I needed it, is that I'm now doing the Queen that we're a little more familiar with," she says. "With Claire Foy, it was almost history and now I'm playing one that people could say 'she doesn't do that,' 'she's not like that,' and that's my personal bête noire."

Who will play Prince Philip in season 5 of The Crown?

Welsh actor Jonathan Pryce will take over from season four's Tobias Menzies as the Duke of Edinburgh.

The 73-year-old actor boasts an impressive acting portfolio, having starred in Evita, Pirates of the Caribbean, Game of Thrones and earning recognition for a number of leading stage roles. Jonathan was also nominated for an Oscar last year for his portrayal of Pope Francis in The Two Popes.

No doubt fans will find watching Pryce's Philip in the new series a bittersweet experience, following the Duke of Edinburgh's death in April 2021. It was recently revealed that the late Prince Philip was upset by The Crown and their portrayal of his childhood.

Jonathon admitted that the prospect of playing the Duke of Edinburgh is "daunting", but he is "delighted" to be working with Netflix again.

The Crown season 5 cast: Full list

• Imelda Staunton as Queen Elizabeth II
• Lesley Manville as Princess Margaret
• Jonathan Pryce as Prince Philip
• Elizabeth Debicki as Princess Diana
• Dominic West as Prince Charles
• Claudia Harrison as Princess Anne
• Jonny Lee Miller as John Major
• Olivia Williams as Camilla Parker Bowles
• Flora Montgomery as Norma Major
• Marcia Warren as The Queen Mother
• James Murray as Prince Andrew
• Sam Woolf as Prince Edward
• Bertie Carvel as Tony Blair
• Humayun Saeed as Dr. Hasnat Khan
• Timothy Dalton as Peter Townsend
• Lydia Leonard as Cherie Blair
• Natascha McElhone as Penelope Knatchbull
• Senan West and Timothee Sambor as Prince William 
• Teddy Hawley and Will Powell as Prince Harry

New faces will take on the roles of the Royal Family in season 5, in what has become custom for the Netflix series. After every two seasons the cast is refreshed and replaced by more mature actors who are better suited to portray the ageing monarch and her children.

Fans were sad to see Claire Foy and Matt Smith depart after heading up the first two series as her Majesty and Prince Philip respectively. Though they soon embraced their season 3 and season 4 replacements - Olivia Colman and Tobias Menzies - as the two heads of the institution.

The Crown producers have revealed the new acting talent for season 5 and 6, with audiences no doubt familiar with a few British faces.

What key events will happen in The Crown season 5?

Though no official synopsis has been shared, we're expecting a number of key events from the 1990s to take place in Season 5 - in particular the end of several of the Queen's children's relationships.

Season four set the stage for the separation of Princess Diana and Prince Charles. The couple announced their separation in 1992 and officially divorced in August 1996.

1992 also saw two other divorce announcements - Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips (April 1992). Plus Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson (March 1992). It is thought the ending of these royal relationships will be key events in season five.

The Queen famously dubbed 1992 her "annus horribilis" with a huge fire at Windsor Castle breaking out and resulting in millions of pounds worth of damage. It is likely Peter Morgan will cover this key event in series five too.

Other national key events that could happen in The Crown season 5 is the start of the Gulf War (January 1991), the Queen's Ruby Jubilee (February 1992),  the IRA bombings of London stations (February 1991) and the arrival of Tony Blair at Downing Street (May 1997).

Is there a season 6 of The Crown?

Yes there will be a sixth series of The Crown and this will be the last season of the hit Netflix show. Filming for the sixth season is currently underway.

The show's creator Peter Morgan initially said that season 5 would be the show's last series. However, in July 2020, Netflix confirmed that there will be a sixth and final season for fans to look forward to (hurrah).

In the Netflix announcement, Peter said: "As we started to discuss the storylines for Series 5, it soon became clear that in order to do justice to the richness and complexity of the story we should go back to the original plan and do six seasons."

Producers have also confirmed that season 6 will deal with the death of Princess Diana. Though the show won't be re-enacting the crash scene out of respect. In a statement to the Daily News, Netflix clarified: "[Season 6] will not depict the crash, contrary to some reports," adding that instead, "it will be scenes covering the lead-up to, and [the] aftermath."

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Video of the Week

Netflix has announced it will start charging those who share the password to their streaming accounts with friends and family.

The digital streaming service platform first announced it was going to be taking a firmer stand against users abusing their account subscriptions earlier this year, following a slump in its earnings.

And since then, Netflix has devised a plan to make password sharing a whole lot harder.

Netflix has announced it will officially begin charging for account sharing early next year, in a letter to shareholders it outlined plans to introduce "extra member" sub-accounts, which will require users to pay an additional fee for friends and family members accessing their account.

The streaming service has not yet confirmed how much it plans to charge users but according to The Verge, it can be expected to follow a beta model already set up in Central and South American countries where it charges $2.99 - or 1/4th of the $12 monthly subscription fee.

Charging for extra members allows the company to start "monetising all that unpaid viewing," Netflix CFO Spence Neumann said on a call with investors on Tuesday. 

CEO Reed Hastings echoed Neumann on the call: "Everything the company is focused on, whether that's on the content side, on marketing, lowering prices to the ad supported, the paid sharing, the thoughtful approach we're doing there lines us up for a good next year."

Previously Chief product officer, Greg Peters, spoke at Netflix's Q3 2019 earnings interview, where he said that the company is looking to address the phenomenon head on.

He said, “We continue to monitor it so we're looking at the situation. We'll see those consumer-friendly ways to push on the edges of that."

The announcement comes after a study found that the average Netflix account has five people using it, but only one footing the bill.

Research carried out by MoneySavingHeroes.co.uk shone a light on the sneaky Netflix sharers, with more than 60% saying they had no intention of ever setting up their own account.

Those who pay for accounts were also asked if their friends and family contributed towards the fee, but 81% said they did not.

In addition to this, nine out of ten sharers said they couldn't afford their own subscription.

Netflix is remaining tight-lipped on just how exactly it plans to expose individuals using other people's passwords, but it has said it hopes to do so "without alienating a certain portion of [its] user base".

But news of a crackdown seems to be already paying off, as Netflix recently gained more than two million new subscribers in recent months, after losing subscribers in three consecutive quarters.

The news comes after the streaming service recently raised its subscription prices, with standard plans increasing £1 for new and existing customers. Similarly, premium account holders were faced with prices rising £2.

And Netflix is looking at introducing ad commercials to its subscription service.

Perhaps it will take a page out of the book of technology firm Synamedia? The company recently launched a new AI system to track account sharing. Those found to be sharing face a forced upgrade or a potential removal of their account.

Hopefully, the folks at Netflix won’t be so dramatic.

The good news is that it seems like there are no plans until 2023, so no need to get your own account just yet.

It took nine days to locate the trapped souls and another eight to rescue them all - but did it really happen? 

The Thai Cave Rescue is causing a tidal wave of intrigue surrounding the story of a football team trapped in a cave - and the people who laid their lives on the line to rescue them. When Thai youth football team the Wild Boars were caving with their assistant coach, unexpected monsoon rain saw water levels inside the caves rise, trapping them in the Tham Luang Cave. With food and resources running low, a global rescue effort to free them ensued. Those watching the incredible story unfold are asking if events are based on a true story - read on to find out. 

Also keeping tensions high on screen is Alison Janney in a new Netflix thriller. The ambiguous ending has left viewers asking for the Lou ending explained, and wondering if there will be a sequel. On ITV, Lauren Lyle is getting rave reviews as detective Karen Pirie which is based on some well known source material. Stephen Moffat’s Inside Man is also finally here after a huge build up, and it’s every bit as exciting as you’d expect.

Is the Thai Cave Rescue series based on a true story?

Yes, Thai Cave Rescue is based on the true story of the rescue of 12 Thai boys from youth soccer team the Wild Boars and their coach from the Tham Luang Cave, between June 23 and July 10, 2018.

When their football  practice ended on Saturday 23 June, 2018, the 12 members of Wild Boars decided to go cave exploring with assistant coach Ekkaphon Chanthawong. The boys were aged between 11 and 16 at the time, and Chanthawong 25. The cave formed part of a complex beneath the Doi Nang Non mountain range, and was known to flood regularly during the rainy season - the boys and their coach missed the warning sign not to enter the caves, situated at the entrance. 

When the team failed to return from their trip, an alarm was raised at 7pm. The team’s head coach approached the caves to find the boys’ belongings strewn around the cave entrance, and pathways covered in water. Thai Navy Seal divers were informed of what had happened, and local British diver Vern Unsworth was brought on board the rescue team, as he was very familiar with the caves. At this time, those experts pronounced the water to be too murky to proceed with any rescue attempt. 

An international appeal for rescue help ensued, resulting in the US Air Force, Australian Specialist Response Group, and divers from the Beijing Peaceland Foundation offering help for the mission. British divers Richard Stanton and John Volanthen began rescue attempts, but made little progress due to continuing rainfall and strong currents in the caves. The boys and their coach were found on July 2, following a trip that took 6 hours to complete. It took another week before the divers were able to begin removing the trapped from the cave. 

On July 8, 18 rescue divers arrived at the cave, where one diver was assigned one child to bring back. It was decided the boys should be anaesthetised to prevent panic on the long journey out of the caves, preventing danger to themselves and their assigned diver. The mission ended on July 10 after the trapped souls had spent 18 days in the cave. A total of 10,000 people were involved in the rescue, and over a billion litres of water was pumped from the caves to assist the mission.

Did all 13 survive?

Yes, all 12 boys and their coach survived the rescue. When it was decided that they’d be anaesthetised, their parents were not informed due to the experimental nature of the intervention, and that expert anaesthetists told diving crews to expect casualties. 

According to USA Today, selecting which drugs and how much to use was a huge challenge in itself. Too much and they could enter respiratory failure, and too little meant they could wake up during the journey and panic - which could result in drowning. They were given tranquilisers to calm them, and a drug to dry up the saliva secretions to prevent choking on their saliva. The actual anaesthetic was ketamine, which the divers had to re-administer several times throughout the journey as one dose would only keep the boys unconscious for 1 -2 hours. 

Just days after the boys and their coach were rescued, monsoon rains completely submerged the cave for eight months. Rain was falling during the rescue, but crews were still able to pursue the mission. However, just days afterwards going back into the caves would have been impossible, and everybody trapped would most certainly have died. 

Who were the Thai rescue divers?

Four Thai Navy Seals led by Rear Admiral Arpakorn Yuukongkaew were part of the mission, along with Dr Pak Loharnshoon. British divers John Volanthen and Richard Stanton were also instrumental. 

Other divers include Richard Harris, Saman Gunan, Ben Reymenants, Claus Rasmussen, Mikko Paasi, Ivan Karadzic, and Eric Brown. According to the BBC,  John Volanthen, Richard Stanton, and British caving expert Robert Harper were specifically called upon by Thai authorities to offer their expertise on the mission. Dr Richard Harris from Australia had decades of diving experience. He examined the boys and greenlit the mission to begin.  

Petty Officer Saman Gunan had retired from the Thai navy, and volunteered his services for the rescue. Belgian Ben Reymenants was running a dive shop in Phuket, and diving company Blue Label Diving. When he heard about the incident, he volunteered to help along with Claus Rasmussen who worked as an instructor at Reymenants' diving school.  

Finnish Mikko Paasi was running a diving centre on the island of Koh Tao. He was a specialist in technical diving, including wreck and cave diving. Danish Ivan Karadzic, was a friend of Mikko Paasi, and they were running the diving centre together. Canadian Erik Brown was a technical diving instructor from Vancouver, running the Team Blue Immersion technical diving school in Egypt. He spent a total of 63 hours inside the Tham Luang caves during the rescue mission.

How many rescuers died in Thai Cave Rescue?

Two rescuers died during the Thai cave rescue. Saman Gunan died during the rescue itself, and in 2019, rescue diver Beirut Pakbara died of a blood infection contracted during the operation.  

A highly trained diver, Saman Gunan had been delivering oxygen supplies to those trapped. He ran out of oxygen himself on the way back through the caves, and lost consciousness. His diving partner tried to revive him but was unable, and his body had to be retrieved from the cave. 

Thai Navy SEAL Beirut Pakbara spent a year receiving treatment for the infection he contracted during the rescue. His condition worsened when the infection entered his bloodstream and he sadly passed away. 

Is the Thai Cave Rescue on Netflix? 

The Thai Cave Rescue was released on Netflix on September 22, 2022. The limited series consists of 6 episodes, 60 minutes in length. All episodes are available to watch concurrently.

To view the series, a Netflix subscription will be required. There are 3 Netflix packages available for those wanting to subscribe. The cheapest package costs £6.99 per month, and this basic starting price includes unlimited access to the Netflix catalogue. With this, subscribers can only stream from one device at a time. 

At £10.99 per month, the standard package also includes the entire Netflix catalogue. However, simultaneous streaming from 2 devices is allowed. This package also has shows in HD, and allows downloads to mobile devices. The final premium package costs £15.99 per month, and features bonuses including allowing streaming across 4 devices, and contains most of the catalogue in Ultra HD. 

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Video of the week

We share where Anthony Templet is now, after viewers of Netflix's documentary I Just Killed My Dad wonder what happened to the man at the centre of the story.

Anthony Templet was just 17 years old when he made a 999 call admitting to the murder of his dad Burt Templet in June 2019. What at first glance appeared to be a cold-blooded killing, later turned out to be a more complex and dark case than it first seemed, with kidnapping, abuse and isolation all linked to the crime in question.

The true crime docu-series made Netflix's Top 10 chart alongside hit documentary Woodstock 99 and The Most Hated Man on the Internet, which told the story of revenge porn criminal Hunter Moore. As viewers tune in to learn the full story around I Just Killed My Dad, we've shared everything we know about where Anthony Templet is now and whether he served time for his dad's death.

Where is Anthony Templet now?

Anthony Templet is now 21 years old, and as far as we know still living in Louisiana, America. Templet shares his story through interviews in the Netflix documentary I Just Killed My Dad - but aside from this appearance has mostly kept away from the spotlight.

However, at the end of the three-part documentary, Anthony tells the camera that living a normal life from now on is his number one focus: "It's very important to feel in control of your life. You get your freedom stripped from you in jail, and it just kind of made me realise that. And, you know, it's kind of what I value - I value it a little bit more... I just want to be normal. Just want to live normally and be happy and just move on."

What did Anthony Templet do?

On Monday 3 June, 2019 between 3 and 3:30am, Anthony Templet shot his father Burt Templet three times at their home near White Oak, East Baton Rouge in Louisiana. The then-17-year-old called police shortly after and was arrested when authorities arrived on the scene.

According to local news outlet WAFB9, Anthony told investigators that his father had woken him up drunk at 3am. The two started to argue about a phone call to a family member, with Burt becoming aggressive and physical towards his son. Anthony retreated to his father's bedroom but was followed by Burt. He then managed to lock himself inside, where he got hold of two handguns. 

Templet told detectives that he then opened the door and shot at his father. Burt fell backwards and asked his son to stop, but Anthony fired another two bullets. He then called 911 to alert them of the altercation. 

"He tried to attack me," Anthony said in the call to the 911 operator. "Then, we got into a fist fight. Then, I ran in his room, closed the door, and got a gun. As I unlocked the door, he tried to [inaudible] and then I shot him."

According to Fox 8 live, in the audio recorded call, Anthony said that he had tried to shoot his father in the head but that he wasn't sure his father had been killed - which is why he fired three shots in total. 

He added that he knew he had hit Burt at least once - due to the blood on the floor.

When interviewed by detectives after, Anthony maintained that he had shot his father to protect himself. It was later alleged that Anthony had been abused by his father Burt for a number of years.

Kidnap, abuse and a family reunion

Additional family members came forward in the wake of Anthony's arrest, alleging that the 17-year-old had been considered missing for over a decade. A woman called Natasha - claiming to be Anthony's sister - told WAFB that Anthony was taken by dad Burt from the family home in Texas in 2008. Anthony was just 5 years old at the time.

"He snatched him from our home," the sister said. "Burt and my mom were together for about ten years and it was extremely violent."

WAFB reported that Burt Templet was charged with three counts of assault against Anthony's mother Teresa Thompson in 2002 whilst in Harris County, Texas. Two of these charges were later dropped. 

"After 11 years of waiting to hear if my brother was still alive, he is found," Natasha added. "He has been secluded and abused all these years by his own father. My brave brother had to defend himself for the last time against that evil man."

After moving to Baton Rouge, Burt remarried a woman called Susan. The two were together until early 2019 when Susan left her husband and filed for a protective order against him. According to WAFB, Susan claimed on social media that Burt had allegedly knocked several of her teeth out. 

Susan was later identified as the family member behind the call that caused the initial argument between Burt and his son Anthony. She showed her support for Anthony during the legal proceedings.

In the Netflix documentary, Anthony opens up on the alleged abuse that took place whilst living with his father. 

First the control: "He always wanted to know everything. At every moment I was being tracked by something," he said. "Whether it be another person or camera or mobile app. They weren't for security - they were for me and the rest of the family in the house. I knew he was trying to control me. It just got worse and worse. He just started losing it."

Burt's former wife and Anthony's stepmother Susan Templet further shared details of her husband's surveillance. She told the documentary makers of I Just Killed My Dad: "Burt had an app on his phone that any movement, it would send him a text with a picture of what was going on." 

Anthony goes on to share the alleged physical abuse he suffered at the hands of his father. "Yeah, I've been punched and thrown and... kicked and... and it wouldn't stop for like hours," he told the camera. "So, yeah, it was bad".

The Netflix documentary also shares an audio taping from a District Attorney investigative interview. Viewers hear one neighbour claim that Susan's ex-husband had previously reached out to officials for fear of mistreatment. "He said that, on two occasions, he had contacted authorities of some type because he suspected abuse of both Susan and or Anthony," said the un-named neighbour. 

Anthony's deprivation of education is also acknowledged in the series. "He never put me in public school. I never knew why," Anthony told cameras. This claim has been further supported by neighbours of Burt Templet. They said that Burt was very secretive about his son and had told them that Anthony was home-schooled.

Further details of Anthony's isolation from the world also came to light in the documentary. It emerged that he never saw a doctor, dentist or had any routine medical care check-ups. 

Hillar Moore, East Baton Rouge District Attorney told the camera: "We always get records from schools, and medical records, and clubs. And in this case, we had zero." 

What happened to Burt Templet?

Emergency services arriving on the scene on June 3, 2019 immediately took Burt Templet to hospital. However, the 53-year-old later died from his injuries three days later.

Louisiana newspaper The Advocate shared an obituary for Burt Templet on June 8, 2019. It read: "Burt Anthony Templet passed away Thursday, June 6, 2019 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge at the age of 53. He was a resident of Baton Rouge and native of Plaquemine." Church Funeral Services in Walker was noted as being in charge of the funeral arrangements.

Did Anthony Templet go to prison?

No, Anthony Templet did not go to prison. In March 2021, the then-18-year-old agreed to a plea deal for manslaughter and was instead given a five year supervised probation period. 

He was additionally ordered to attend counselling and work towards obtaining a 'GE' high-school diploma while attending school or keeping a job full-time. 

According to WAFB9, Templet was originally charged with second-degree murder. However, this was later reduced to manslaughter as members of his family told the court that Anthony acted in self-defense against his father. 

They also spoke of his abuse at the hands of Burt Templet for years, with prosecutor Dana Cummings confirming that Anthony had been isolated by his father. 

Handing out Templet's probation, the Assistant District Attorney for East Baton Rouge Parish said: "What would time in jail do for this young man who has never actually had a chance to learn or to have friends or to be in the world?

"What would that achieve?" he added. "I just think it would keep him from ever being able to be productive."

Jarrret Ambeau, Anthony's lawyer agreed with the prosecutor's terms: "When I saw this injustice, I said, ‘Absolutely, no way should this kid be in jail," he said. "Well, that’s the outcome we have. It may not be the thing we have hoped but this is an imperfect system. We try to find the best possible justice and I think we got that today."

Still adhering to his five-year probation - Anthony Templet will be eligible to have his criminal record later expunged if he meets all the requirements set by the court.

For more deep dives into popular TV shows, we've revealed what The Zone of Interest is based on and what happened to the real Rudolf Höss and his family. We've also shared where The Madame Blanc Mysteries was filmed and where Boarders was filmed.

Hunter Moore is the focus of the new Netflix docu-series, The Most Hated Man on the Internet. But as the show hits our screens, many will be wondering, where is Hunter Moore now?

Joining the successes of documentaries I Just Killed My Dad telling the story of Anthony Templet and mother turned murderer Lori Vallow Daybell in Sins of our Mother, comes a new Netflix true crime caper for viewers to sink their teeth into. The Most Hated Man on the Internet is a three part series which details Hunter Moore's crimes of setting up a revenge porn website - telling the story of mother Charlotte Laws who battles against him when naked pictures of her daughter are posted online without her permission. 

Those that have already tuned in are full of questions - with the biggest one being where is Hunter Moore now? And did he go to prison for his crimes? We share everything there is to know.

Where is Hunter Moore now?

Hunter Moore keeps a low profile nowadays following his release from prison in 2017. Hunter is still banned from Facebook, but is active on Twitter on the handle @_iamhuntermoore, often posting gym selfies and pictures of his dog.

In 2017, Substream Magazine revealed that Hunter planned to make EDM tracks on his release from jail, and he released one called Make The Internet Great Again. He also wrote a controversial book called Is Anyone Up?, which was released in 2018. 

Since the documentary aired, Moore has participated in a few select interviews discussing the show. In one with Youtuber Daniel Wise, he was asked if what happened was something he wished he'd never done, to which Moore replied: "Flat out no".

"First of all, I mean this probably sounds horrible, but I’m proud of what I created, I’m proud of the community I created," he added. "Now hell do I wish I had gone about it in a different way? 100%, and you know I’m obviously more than sorry and definitely would love to apologise to people that were affected negatively by the website."

On Netflix's Tudum website, it states that Hunter had initially agreed to take part in their new docu-series The Most Hated Man on the Internet. But he later pulled out for unknown reasons. Producer Vikki Miller said of his U-turn: "When Hunter pulled out, I was initially disappointed but then I completely changed my mind and am so glad we ended up telling it through Charlotte Laws’ narrative."

Moore has since publicly explained his reason for withdrawing from the docu-series. In an August 2022 tweet, he shared that "they wouldn't let me tell my side of the story", adding that "60% of that Netflix documentary was BS".

What did Hunter Moore do?

Hunter Moore was a self-proclaimed “professional life ruiner” who found fame in the early 2010s when he founded IsAnyoneUp.com, a notorious ‘revenge porn’ hub. The site was originally meant to be a clubbing website, but he later posted a naked picture of a girl he was dating on it. When he checked back on the site a week later, there were 14,000 hits, so he decided to add more naked pictures. 

However, this time the pictures he posted weren't just from people who had submitted them of themselves, but posted by other people – usually ex boyfriends and girlfriends. 

When a picture popped up on the site, according to Rolling Stone it included: “The ex’s full name, profession, social-media profile and city of residence - which ensured that the pictures would pop up on Google,” leaving family members and employers likely to find the pictures. Hunter, along with a cohort, then began hacking people’s computers and posting indecent photos they found hidden in the owner’s files.

Over the course of the 16 months the website ran for, it posted - without consent -stolen compromising naked pictures of students, mothers, teachers, women in wheelchairs and even a woman on a doctor’s table post-surgery. 

At its peak, it had an estimated 350,000 unique users a day, and up to $30,000 a month in advertising revenue. Hunter hid behind the law that it was “user-generated content." 

When victims tried to send cease and desist letters or emails begging him to remove the pictures, he would often reply with just one word: “LOL”.

Featuring exclusive interviews with multiple women and men who fought to have their images taken down, law enforcement agents who worked the case and the crusaders who fought to take Moore down, The Most Hated Man on the Internet tells the story of how Hunter Moore finally got his comeuppance.

What is Revenge Porn?

According to the government website, Revenge Porn is "the sharing of private, sexual materials, either photos or videos, of another person, without their consent and with the purpose of causing embarrassment or distress."

The offence applies both online and offline - so images which are shared electronically or in a more traditional way. It includes the uploading of images on the internet, sharing by text and e-mail, or showing someone a physical or electronic image. 

Since 2015 in England and Wales, Revenge Porn has been an offence punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine, Under Section 33 of the Criminal Justice and Court Act 2015.

Did Hunter Moore go to prison?

Yes, Hunter Moore was sentenced to prison for two years and six months between 2015-2017 for his Revenge Porn crimes.  In February 2015, he pleaded guilty to felony charges for aggravated identity theft and aiding and abetting in the unauthorised access of a computer. 

In addition to his time inside, Moore was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation while behind bars, pay a $2000 fine, a restitution fee of $145.70, and serve three years of supervised release after he's out.

During his sentencing, US district judge Dolly Gee said: “He hid behind his online persona and engaged in aberrant behavior. Now you must face the consequences of your own actions. Your poor judgment has caused much pain to your victims and your family.”

According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons he was released from jail on 22 September 2017.

In 2021, Hunter tweeted: "You know my name not my story. You've heard what I've done, Not what I've been through."

What is Hunter Moore's net worth?

Moore's exact and current net worth is not known. However, in a tweet he posted March 9, 2021, Moore claimed he had a fortune of $3 million. "Today I am 35 years old. Not married no kids. With almost 3mil on bank. Still hustling," the tweet read.

The following month, Moore shared a video of him counting cash on the social media platform, alongside the caption: "Still hustling".

Moore regularly shares updates on his wealth online. It seems the 36-year-old has invested in Bitcoin in the past, sharing one tweet that suggested he was to receive $350k for a March 2021 investment.

What happened to Is Anybody Up?

IsAnybodyUp.com was forced to shut in 2012, and the domain was handed over to anti-bullying site Bullyville.com. Founded by former US Marine James McGibney, he got Hunter to agree to sell the original domain and redirect to Bullyville instead.

At the time of the sale, Moore shared something close to an apology in an open letter, writing: "I think it's important that everyone realises the damage that online bullying can cause." 

However, Hunter still regularly tweets about the site, recently posting: "On this day 12years ago I sold my site IsAnyoneUp, and the rest is history." Referencing the site, he also regularly tweets the question: "Is anyone up?"

Director of The Most Hated Man On The Internet, Alex Marengo, said of the importance of the Netflix series: “I immediately saw that this story could make an utterly compelling series: a crusade for justice against all the odds wrapped up in a world of real-life and online depravity. 

"Some revelled in it, others had their lives ruined. I am so proud of our uniquely talented team who turned the lens onto Hunter Moore and turned his victims into the ultimate winners by giving them their voices, silenced until now.”

Related Netflix features:

• Where is Kai Lawrence now? The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker
• What happened to John McAfee?
• Where is Janice McAfee now?
• How many people died at Woodstock 99?
• Echoes: Ending explained and is there a season 2?
• Where was Echoes filmed?
• Look Both Ways: Ending Explained

Video of the Week

Exactly when you can watch the must-see comedy drama starring the iconic How I Met Your Mother actor.

Uncoupled is Netflix’s latest comedy drama starring Neil Patrick Harris. The 8-part series follows Harris’ character Michael - a real estate agent -  who seems to have it all. He has a lovely home, and lives with his partner of 17 years, Colin. His life couldn’t be more idyllic, until Colin’s 50th party happens. After nearly 2 decades together, birthday boy Colin announces he wants to break up. Michael is suddenly left navigating the loss of his soulmate, and life as a single gay man in his middle aged years in New York City.

The series is created by infamous Sex and the City producer Darren Star, who was most recently behind the sequel to the iconic series, And Just Like That season 1. Star is also the mastermind behind upcoming And Just Like That season 2. It joins hyped docu-series The Most Hated Man on the Internet about revenge porn criminal Hunter Moore as a Netflix must-watch this July.

Uncoupled release date: What time is it on Netflix?

Comedy drama Uncoupled will be released in the UK on Netflix at 8am, Friday 29 July, 2022. This means the series will be available to American audiences on the same date, landing at 12 a.m. Pacific Time (PT) and 3 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) with all episodes available at the same time.

There are three Netflix packages you can sign up to. The cheapest package costs £6.99 per month, and this includes unlimited access to the Netflix catalogue. However, with the basic package, subscribers can only stream from one device at a time.

The standard package - at £10.99 per month - includes the entire Netflix catalogue, but allows simultaneous streaming from 2 devices. This package also has shows in HD, and allows downloads to mobile devices. 

The final premium package costs £15.99 per month, and features bonuses including streaming across four devices. Plus it contains most of the catalogue in Ultra HD.

Uncoupled - cast

• Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother, Gone Girl) as Michael Lawson
• Tisha Campbell (Little Shop of Horrors, Blindspotting) as Suzanne Prentis
• Tuc Watkins (Desperate Housewives, The Boys in the Band) as Colin McKennas
• Marcia Gay Harden (Code Black, Fifty Shades of Grey) as Claire Lewis
• Emerson Brooks (Deep Blue Sea 3, The Last Ship) as Billy Jackson 
• Brooks Ashmanskas (The Good Wife, Better Nate Than Ever) as Stanley James

Speaking to Them about his role in Uncoupled, Neil Patrick Harris discussed the difficulties of the sudden jump between comedy and drama in the show. He said "You can be sad about a breakup and then also, like, trip and fall, and spill your coffee at the coffee shop”. 

He added: “We live in a world where funny things happen to us on the subway or while brushing your teeth, and so I hope people can laugh at it but also empathize, sympathise".

On starring in a show focussing purely on the LGBTQ+ dating scene, Harris said "It speaks to a celebration of how far we’ve come. It’s interesting to me to be telling a gay breakup story and have it feel like nothing within it seems salacious or groundbreaking. 

"I love that we’ve been telling gay stories for long enough that a gay divorce or generational dating show exists at all". 

Harris himself has been married since 2014, and navigating the dating scene is something he's put behind him in his real life. According to Netflix companion site Tudum, Harris isn't the only one glad not to have to understand how the likes of Tinder work. Co-creator of the show Jeffrey Richman, suggests the series is an opportunity to highlight the plight of newly single middle-aged men. 

Of those in this situation he knows personally, Richman said "The idea that the person that you trust most in the world could actually just tell you that the relationship is over, and vanish after almost two decades together, that happened to people I know". 

He also spoke of it happening to people co-creator Darren star knows. He continued to add "The epic betrayal and recovery of that was what was interesting to us.” 

Uncoupled - reviews

So far, reviews for Uncoupled have been mixed, bordering on generally positive. With the show not being released to audiences yet, reviews are predominantly from critics who've been privy to the series' previews. Critical site Rotten Tomatoes so far offers a 67% critic's score. This however, is only from a handful of reviews. 

THE GOOD

Amy Amatangelo of Paste magazine called the series "Fun, funny, emotional, and full of characters and friendships you care about", offering 8.7/10. The only negative she could find was the lack of episodes - she would've preferred far more than just 8. 

Vanity Fair's Richard Lawson was equally positive about the series. He particularly enjoyed the "perverse pleasure to Uncoupled’s blithe indulgence, the guilty thrill of spending time in a world in which money is both no object and the only object". 

THE BAD

Offering only 2/5, the Financial Times critic Dan Einav was less than enthusiastic. He said "It’s a shame... that a release [that] should be seen as a sign of progress is so dated and uninspired in other ways".

Similarly unimpressed, Daniel D'Addario from Variety referred to the series as "surprisingly sour". He added "The show thrusts its jitteringly antic 'Emily in Paris' energy against a subject, and a character, too lachrymose to generate sparks".

Could there be an Uncoupled season 2?

There has been no official announcement about Uncoupled season 2. It's been widely speculated Netflix will wait for audience reactions to the show before greenlighting a second season. With plenty of positive critic reviews so far, the chances of a positive audience reception is looking likely. 

With Netflix revealing Uncoupled in May 2021, if renewed, Uncoupled season 2 would have an expected release of summer or autumn 2023.

Video of the Week

Playing a major role in the conviction of Hunter Moore, viewers are asking where is Charlotte Laws now

When her daughter became one of Hunter Moore’s revenge porn victims, Charlotte Laws did everything she could to bring down the man responsible for the humiliation caused. Moore, the self-styled “professional life ruiner” created revenge porn hub IsAnyoneUp.com. Site users could submit nude photos of men and women, without either knowledge or consent. A new 3 part Netflix documentary The Most Hated Man on The Internet documents Charlotte Laws’ journey to have Moore convicted for his crimes. The series interviews other victims of his crimes, and fans of his misogynistic website he named “The Family”. Here’s everything we know about where revenge porn activist Charlotte Laws is now.

It's not only Charlotte Laws viewers of the documentary are interested in. As founder of the horrific revenge porn website, many are asking where Hunter Moore is now. Those who have viewed Skye Borgman’s latest investigation are also asking where is Franklin Floyd now from Girl in The Picture? Whilst true crime enthusiasts are now asking where is Kai Lawrence from The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker.

Where is Charlotte Laws now? 

Charlotte currently resides in Los Angeles with her British barrister husband, and works as a political pundit. Her present jobs are listed as author, TV personality and public speaker. 

She remains working as a revenge porn activist following her part in Moore’s conviction, and is also an animal rights activist. According to her website, Laws began her career as an actress and cover girl for magazines. The completion of several degrees, masters qualifications, and a doctorate led her to host her own news show. The show, entitled Uncommon Sense, ran between 2007 and 2010. She then became a weekly commentator on the NBC Show, between 2009 and 2013. 

Laws can currently be found working as a political pundit for the BBC, where she discusses American politics. She is also very active on Twitter, promoting her work and raising the profile of causes she is passionate about. 

What happened to Charlotte Laws’ daughter?

Charlotte Laws’ daughter Kayla was a victim of revenge porn perpetrator Hunter Moore. At the time, she was 24-years-old, and an aspiring actress.

In October 2011, Kayla Laws took a series of private photographs of herself on her mobile, for personal use. Wanting to free up space on her phone, she emailed the pictures to herself, for storage on her own computer. However, in January 2012 her computer was hacked, and the private images uploaded to Moore’s Is Anyone Up site. Laws had not consented to the images being posted, and they also linked to her public social media accounts. 

Working as a waitress at the time, Laws enlisted the help of her mother Charlotte Laws, to get the pictures removed from the site. This was not easy - they encountered a stream of removal requests being ignored, even when they provided proof of hacking. Moore was able to claim copyright for the pictures, and they stayed on his site. Strangers began contacting Kayla via the links to her social media site listed with the hacked pictures, further adding to her trauma. 

Kayla’s stepfather Charles Parselle worked as an attorney at the time. Even when he came on board to fight the copyright claim, it still took months for the pictures to be removed. Charlotte Laws fought tirelessly for her daughter’s cause, and to have Moore convicted for his crimes - a fight that continued into 2015 and involved the FBI. The Laws family eventually won and the hacked photos were taken down, not before months of trauma had been inflicted on Kayla.

Where is Kayla Laws now? 

Kayla Laws lives in Los Angeles, and works as a real estate agent. According to The Cinemaholic, she works at Coldwell Banker Realty, and covers the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, and Ventura areas.

Kayla recently married her long-time boyfriend on July 10, 2022, now using the name Kayla Laws Collins. She was the only victim of Moore’s to make a statement during his sentencing hearing, citing inspiration from her mother to give her the courage to do so. 

Of Moore, she said he “called himself a professional life ruiner, and that’s exactly what he did to me… I felt exposed, ashamed, and broke into tears”. 

She also spoke of losing acting work because of him, adding “I was hoping no one would see it, but within a day, I lost a role in a film. Not to mention the tens of thousands of strangers who saw, commented on, or possibly even saved the photo… I will carry the trauma of this experience with me for the rest of my life”.

Who is James McGibney? 

James McGibney is a former Marine, entrepreneur, and anti-bullying activist, who assisted Charlotte Laws in having site Is Anyone Up taken down. 

According to Netflix, McGibney owned the anti-bullying site BullyVille.com, when he heard about Is Anyone Up. Angered by the content, he sought to trick Moore into selling the site to him. 

Gaining Moore’s trust by becoming an advertising partner for the site, he convinced him to sell him the site on the agreement McGibney would continue uploading degrading pictures to it.

In 2012, McGibney purchased the site for $15,000 and immediately took it offline, redirecting traffic to his anti-bullying resources. An enraged Moore used his Twitter account to defame McGibney, and threaten him and his family. McGibney sued Moore for his threats and remarks in 2013.

Is Revenge Porn a crime? 

According to UK law firm Stephensons, from 2015 in England and Wales, it is an offence to share private sexual images or videos on or offline without consent, and with the intention to cause distress. 

Under Section 33 of the Criminal Justice and Court Act 2015, the offence can potentially carry the punishment of up to two years in prison. Revenge porn can also be referred to as ‘image based sexual abuse’, also relating to private sexual videos or photos shared online or offline without explicit consent. It can also be an offence for others to share the images or videos, even if they were not the first to share them. 

Prior to this 2015 legislation, police could prosecute revenge porn under the Communications Act 2003, the Malicious Communications Act 1988, or Protection from Harassment Act 1997. However, the recent legislation makes sharing of images and videos a specific offence in their own right.

Does revenge porn include text messages?

Yes, revenge porn includes text messages. The 2015 legislation covers all social media platforms and electronic communication - including text messages.

Victim services Nest asks those taking explicit images of themselves to think of the consequences of forwarding explicit images - once the image is sent, the owner no longer controls it. Even when images are not forwarded, phones can still get lost or stolen, and images from them shared. Malicious software can also steal images to be shared, or the service used to forward them may be hacked and the images stolen.  

Video of the Week

For the first time since 2014, the price of Amazon Prime is going up. The mega retailer has announced that it is raising its Prime subscription prices due to higher operating costs and inflation. While there are many benefits of a Prime membership and ways you can save when shopping on Amazon, the price hike is the latest in a long line of price increases as the cost of living crisis continues to bite. 

After it was recently reported that streaming service Netflix had lost one million subscribers between April and July this year, following a price hike in January, it remains to be seen whether Amazon Prime will face the same fate. 

Here we explain how the price of Amazon Prime is going to change, and what you can do to beat it.

How much is the price of Amazon Prime going up by? 

Right now, an Amazon Prime membership will cost you £7.99 per month or £79 per year. But from 15 September 2022, monthly subscription prices will increase by £1 to £8.99. Annual subscription prices will rise by £16 from £79 to £95. 

While annual subscriptions require you to pay more in one go, they actually work out cheaper than a monthly subscription, so if you can afford to pay the fee in one go, it’s a great way to save some money.

The new charges will be implemented from September, or your next membership renewal date if you pay annually.  

How to beat the Amazon Prime price hike 

While you might not be able to dodge the price hike forever, you might be able to avoid it for a while, with these quick tips. 

1. Pay annually instead of monthly. If you can afford to pay the current annual fee of £79, it’s worth switching from a monthly subscription to an annual one before 15 September 2022. This means you won’t have to pay the new, higher annual fee until 2023. Martin Lewis also shared his tips on how to beat the price hike.
2. Cancel and repurchase. If you already have an annual subscription, that you only use for next day delivery (and not any other Prime benefits), you could try cancelling your membership, getting a partial refund for any unused time and then repurchasing it. This would, again, lock in the lower annual price until 2023, giving you more time before you have to pay the higher fee. But you won’t be eligible for a refund if you have used any other Prime benefits including Prime Video or Prime Music. 
3. Share your account across your household. Amazon Prime allows you to share membership perks, including faster delivery, Prime Video, Prime Gaming, within your household (two adults and up to four teenagers aged 13-17) without paying for extra Prime accounts. 
4. Student memberships. If you’re a student and want an Amazon Prime account, make sure you buy a Prime Student Membership. It comes with a six-month free trial period and costs just £4.49 per month. You’ll also get access to exclusive student-only offers throughout your membership term.

So many of the season’s plots were finally wrapped up, and here’s what they all mean for the residents of Virgin River.

Virgin River’s widely anticipated season 4 landed on Netflix on July 20. With all episodes immediately available to watch, it didn’t take fans long to wade stealthily through them all. The lives of the small town’s colourful characters - and plot lines providing more twists and turns than a rollercoaster - ensure pure escapism. There’s no wonder fans of the show are always thirsty for more of the action, while remaining entranced by Mel and Jack’s central love story. With so many of the story’s exciting plots coming to a close at the end of season 4, here’s an explanation of what they all mean, and when a possible Virgin River season 5 could be arriving. 

It’s not only the storylines that keep audiences of the show enthralled, but also the stunning scenery. As the drama unfolds, the stunning location acting as a backdrop had left loyal fans asking where Virgin River is filmed. With Mel’s pregnancy announced at the end of season 3, her struggle into motherhood saw fresh challenges in season 4, with viewers asking does Mel Lose her baby in season 5? Questions of paternity remain for another pregnancy in the town, and fans have their theories - who could be the father of Charmaine’s twins in Virgin River?

Virgin River season 4: Ending explained 

Fans were right - Jack is not the father of Charmaine’s twins. Plots can never come to an end without leaving cliffhangers in their place, and Virgin River season 4 ended on this almighty shocking note. 

In the final episode, Charmaine calls Jack and Mel to her house, worrying something is going wrong with her pregnancy. Panicking, she tells them both she is being punished for lying, and she’s worried she will lose the twins because of untruths she’s told. That’s correct - she lied about Jack being the father all along. This news dangled a massive carrot for fans however, because the final end credits rolled with a shocked Jack still not knowing who the real father is. 

Jack’s shooter was finally revealed to be Vince. It turns out not many people had Vince down on their who-shot-Jack bingo card, because this was a huge surprise. As the identical twin of Paige’s former husband Wes, Vince had suspected Preacher's involvement in Wes’ death, and visited Jack’s Bar looking for him. Finding only Jack there, the two fought and Jack was shot before Vince fled. Jack has experienced many flashbacks to the incident, but could never quite recall the shooter’s face. Now there is closure on this long-running thread.

On a happier note for Jack, he is revealed to be the father of Mel’s baby. After reconciling when Mel admitted to Jack she didn’t know if he was the father or not and the two temporarily split, they were initially not keen to find out the paternity. However, Mel’s deceased husband’s mother wants custody of Mel’s baby, plus her remaining embryos. Mel is left with no choice but to find out if Jack is the father, because if proved to be him, Mark’s mother would have to drop her case. While on a quiet getaway together, Mel nervously receives an email with the paternity results - Jack is the father and their baby is a little girl.

Paige and Christopher are safe - but not out of the woods. Paige is held at gunpoint by Vince, who demands to know where Wes is buried. He threatens Christopher’s safety, if Paige doesn’t turn herself in. Preacher interrupts the forced negotiation and knocks Vince out. Here lies another cliffhanger - we don’t know if Vince is dead or alive. If he’s alive, things don’t look good for him being revealed as Jack’s shooter. If he’s dead, Preacher and Paige have another body on their hands and their future will look bleak if they’re trying to cover up 2 murders - even though both were undertaken in self-defence. 

Denny’s secret is unveiled, and he has Huntington's disease. The grandson Doc never knew he had, arrived in the season 3 finale. The pair meet for the first time in the season 4 opening episode, and it transpires that Doc fathered a son during his time in medical school. When his college girlfriend became pregnant, she chose not to tell Doc, for fear of the pregnancy ruining his medical career. 

Denny’s mother died when he was a child, and unfortunately for Doc, the son he never met has also recently passed away. Denny arouses suspicions when he’s caught rifling through the medicine cabinet in Doc’s practice. Appearing to struggle with his memory, and eventually collapsing, Denny reveals his diagnosis. Huntington's Disease is not only incurable, but also genetic, meaning Denny inherited it from one of his parents. He could be looking for the carrier of the illness, which has led him to Doc.   

Is Brady dead at the end of Virgin River season 4?

Brady is alive at the end of Virgin River season 4. After being framed for Jack’s shooting and landing in prison, his fate did look a little uncertain for a time. 

While inside, Brady was stabbed by some of Calvin’s men. Being stabbed by his assailants in the stomach, his kidney was lacerated, but luckily his injuries weren’t fatal. His future again looked uncertain when a mystery benefactor paid his $500,000 bail to get out of jail when his guilt came under fire - the shady character doesn’t have any law-abiding friends with that much cash. Wanting to get on with his life and leave the criminal world behind, Brady understands that somebody paying his bail is suspicious, but chooses to ignore this. 

When Brie goes digging and finds out a woman named Melissa Montgomery made the payment, Melissa becomes a threatening figure in Brady’s life. Using his feelings for Brie, she is able to coerce him to do her bidding. Worrying for Brie’s life, Brady finds himself sucked back into the criminal life he’s trying to leave behind.

Who is Melissa Montgomery?

Melissa Montgomery is the new boss of Calvin’s drug operation. Visiting Brady, she announces herself as the new boss of all of Calvin’s enterprises. 

Telling Brady he will be taking a larger role in the ilegal side of the organisation, he tries to tell her he wants out of the business altogether. Alluding to the fact she’s had former boss Calvin killed, Melissa threatens Brie’s life if Brady doesn’t fall in line. Feeling he has no choice, he accepts his fate. She later tells Brady he will also go the same way as Calvin, if he tries to leave the business. 

In the season finale, Mel and Jack are celebrating Jack’s new business venture. Jack is setting up a glamping site, and Joe Ellen’s husband - and respected local businessman - Nick, is the investor. When Nick announces his sister will be joining them for dinner, none other than Melissa Montgomery arrives at their table, meaning she is related to one of the town’s loved and respected individuals. No doubt this twist will provide plenty of shocks for season 5.  

Virgin River season 4 ending: Fan reaction 

Fans are overwhelmingly happy that Jack is not the father of Charmaine’s twins. One fan posted to Twitter saying “OH wow. that ending of Virgin River was amazing. I thought she was lying in the beginning but then brushed it off. Already can't wait for the next season. Hoping next season we get more shows. One of my favourite shows. Amazing cast and storytelling”.

Another fan added the ending had been the one they’d been hoping for all along, calling it “the best yet”. 

How many episodes in Virgin River season 4? 

• Episode 1: Be My Baby - 43 minutes
• Episode 2: Father Knows Best…? - 44 minutes 
• Episode 3: Grilled - 42 minutes
• Episode 4: Serious As A... - 43 minutes 
• Episode 5: Mayday - 40 minutes 
• Episode 6: All’s Faire… - 43 minutes 
• Episode 7: Otherwise Engaged - 39 minutes
• Episode 8: Talk To Me - 43 minutes 
• Episode 9: Bombshells - 43 minutes
• Episode 10: Fire And Rain - 42 minutes 
• Episode 11: Once Again - 42 minutes 
• Episode 12: The Long Goodbye - 42 minutes

There are 12 episodes in Virgin River season 4. All episodes are available to watch on Netflix. 

There are 3 Netflix packages available for those wanting to subscribe. The cheapest package costs £6.99 per month, and this basic starting price includes unlimited access to the Netflix catalogue. With this, subscribers can only stream from one device at a time. 

At £10.99 per month, the standard package also includes the entire Netflix catalogue. However, simultaneous streaming from 2 devices is allowed. This package also has shows in HD, and allows downloads to mobile devices. 

The final premium package costs £15.99 per month, and features bonuses including allowing streaming across 4 devices, and contains most of the catalogue in Ultra HD. 

Will there be a season 5 of Virgin River?

Yes, season 5 of Virgin River has been confirmed. In September 2021, Netflix announced a double renewal, and fans have known since then that season 5 was on the cards. 

Sharing the news to their Instagram account, the Virgin River official account shared a comedy clip of Jack getting down on one knee in front of Mel. On one knee, Jack actor Martin Henderson is seen saying to Alexandra Breckenridge’s Mel “do you want to do a season 4?” Looking at him earnestly, she replies “Yes! I do! I’ve been meaning to ask you, do you want to do a season 5?” They both gasp dramatically and smile widely at the camera.

The caption for the video states “Virgin River is officially renewed for seasons 4 and 5”.

Fans welcome the news, particularly with the stories that still need closure from season 4. Hope is still grappling with her brain injury, and it still isn’t clear if she will fully recover. With Charmaine indicating she and Todd are no more, it may be revealed that Todd was abusing her in the form of gaslighting - Charmaine could reveal more about this and how it affected her.

Dr Cameron Hayek has strong feelings for Mel, and even stronger ones that Jack is wrong for her. He could pursue this in season 5, while Mel could face a difficult birth with anxiety over the way her first birth ended - with the tragic stillbirth of her daughter.

Doc, still coming to terms with his macular degeneration diagnosis, not only has to face the death of a son he never met, but the terminal diagnosis of his young grandson. This could also impact his relationship with Hope.

With Ricky off to the Marines, he and Lizzie had split and she was exploring her feelings for Denny. Finding out he is dying will be difficult for young Lizzie, and a possible return for Ricky could further complicate all of their lives.

When could Virgin River season 5 be coming out? 

This remains unconfirmed. However, as season 3 dropped in July 2021, and season 4 in July 2022, fans are anticipating a July 2023 release. 

Martin Henderson (Jack) shared a video of himself water skiing, on July 25. He captioned the video “This is what a Sunday in #virginriver country looks like. So grateful that this is our backyard while we film in Vancouver."

The caption continued: "I’m only a beginner but I’m gonna get good at this sport - I love that it offers such an opportunity to find grace and power at the same time! Hope y’all had a great weekend and hopefully you got to feel the beauty and healing power of nature too! Back to set tomorrow to get season 5 to you soon(ish)!”

Although that doesn’t give away a release date, the fact filming is in progress is certainly promising. Plus it suggests that a 2023 release date could be likely.

Whilst you wait, Virgin River fans can fill the void with a number of new Netflix additions - from the story of The Gray Man starring Ryan Gosling to the new Resident Evil series or The Secret based on the real life murders of Trevor Buchanan and Lesley Howell.

Video of the Week

With an all-star cast and intriguing story line, viewers are eager to know The Gray Man release date and what time it arrives on Netflix.

It takes the title for the most expensive film Netflix has ever produced - and with heavyweight names like Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans (aka Captain America) in the cast - it's no wonder interest is high for this action packed caper. 

All-out carnage breaks out when ex-CIA agent and nameless secret assasin (Ryan Gosling) learns some troubling information of a particularly sensitive mission. Keen to track him down and prevent the truth from coming out, ex-cohort Lloyd Hansen (Chris Evans) - supported by a hit team of others - launch a global witch hunt to eliminate the alleged enemy. Some readers will already be familiar to the story The Gray Man is based on - whilst most eager to watch will be pulled in by the cast performances and nerve-wracking stunts. It's expected to make just as much as a buzz as recent Chris Hemsworth hits Spiderhead and Thor: Love and Thunder.

The Gray Man release date: What time is it on Netflix?

Action thriller The Gray Man will be released in the UK on Netflix at 8am, Friday 22 July, 2022. The film is also available to American audiences from this date - dropping at 12 a.m. Pacific Time (PT) and 3 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the streaming platform.

The Gray Man has also enjoyed a limited theatrical release since Friday 15 July for those across the pond. But it's thought that many have been waiting for it to arrive on Netflix so they can watch it for free - as part of their subscription.

There are three Netflix packages you can sign up to. The cheapest package costs £6.99 per month, and this includes unlimited access to the Netflix catalogue. However, with the basic package, subscribers can only stream from one device at a time. 

The standard package - at £10.99 per month - includes the entire Netflix catalogue, but allows simultaneous streaming from 2 devices. This package also has shows in HD, and allows downloads to mobile devices. 

The final premium package costs £15.99 per month, and features bonuses including streaming across four devices. Plus it contains most of the catalogue in Ultra HD.

The Gray Man - cast

• Ryan Gosling (La La Land, First Man) as Sierra Six
• Chris Evans (Captain America, Avengers) as Lloyd Hansen
• Ana de Armas (aka Marilyn Monroe in Blonde) as Dani Miranda 
• Jessica Henwick (Underwater, On The Rocks) as Suzanne Brewer 
• Regé-Jean Page (The Duke in Bridgerton, Waterloo Road) as Denny Carmichael 
• Wagner Moura (Narcos, Shining Girls) as Laszlo Sosa
•  Julia Butters (Once Upon a Time In Hollywood, American Housewife) as Claire Fitzroy
• Dhanush (Maryan, Anegan) as Avik San 
• Alfre Woodard (The Last Ship, See) as Margaret Cahill
• Billy Bob Thornton (Friday Night Lights, Fargo) as Donald Fitzroy

The Gray Man - reviews

Reviews so far for The Gray Man have been mixed. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 52% rating on their Tomatometer, summing it up as having "the star-studded outline of an entertaining action thriller, but it's filled in with lukewarm leftovers from far better films."

THE GOOD

Brian Viner of The Daily Mail called it a "colourful 007 rip-off" - giving it 4 out of 5 stars. "Happily it shows, with some stunts that are as thrillingly extravagant as they are implausibly silly," he writes. "The Bond producers might have to raise their game."

Another 4 star rating was shared by Olly Richards from Time Out who said it was similar to a Fast & Furious movie. "Only with better dialogue and stronger actors delivering it," he quipped.

Meanwhile Vanity Fair's film critic Richard Lawson complemented Ryan Gosling's performance. He said: "The Gray Man is a welcome reminder of Gosling’s lighter charms, ones he really should show off more often."

THE BAD

"There’s plenty of drama but no heart in this Netflix tale of CIA assassins, which jumps frantically between exotic locations," says The Guardian's Peter Bradshaw, giving it 2 stars.

Critic Brian Tallerico of movie review site RogerEbert.com called it "programmatically dull", giving it a two star rating. "It’s a silly piece of popcorn entertainment that too often forgets that this kind of venture needs to be fun," he wrote.

Fan reaction

Social media has been alight with viewers sharing their own opinions of the Gosling led caper. And much like the critic reviews, consensus has been mixed. 

One audience member tweeted that it was "an epic action movie" that was sure to entertain viewers. "Really liked it amazing action scenes, story was alright good enough, some overused drone shots tho. Really enjoyed Chris Evans, Ryan Gosling, and Ana De Armas all amazing. I recommend its an action movie to watch and have fun."

Another tweeted that is was "one of my top movies of this year, a solid 9.8 out of 10".

The film also received praise online from viewers who don't usually enjoy an action film. "Just watched The Gray Man what a film I don’t normally watch this genre but it was great," she tweeted. "The whole cast was brilliant hope there’s a follow up".

Could there be a Gray Man 2?

Whilst there's been no confirmation of a sequel to The Gray Man, speculation is high that there could be another movie - especially as it's based on a 10-set book series. Directing duo The Russo Brothers have also spoken publicly about their hopes for a follow-up film.

Speaking at 2020's virtual Comic Con event, Joe Russo said that "we're not gonna answer every question in the first movie". Certainly suggesting that more is to follow.

"This is being conceived as a series of films, and again, potentially branching out, we could follow other characters, but we're not gonna answer every question in the movie," he added. "So you're gonna finish the movie, [and] have a complete story, but you're still gonna have questions about the wider universe."

Netflix also invested a fair amount into the first production - which definitely suggests that they have high hopes that the film will hit a note with audiences - with demand for more.

Video of the Week

Everything we know about the meaning behind The Gray Man and whether its based on a true story - as the new action thriller drops on Netflix.

Excitement has been mounting for Ryan Gosling’s latest film outing - The Gray Man. Playing the CIA's most skilled mercenary, Gosling is known in the film as Court Gentry, aka Sierra Six. When Six accidentally uncovers dark secrets within the agency, he becomes a target for assassination. He is hunted around the world by former colleague Lloyd Hansen (Chris Evans), a psychopathic former CIA agent. Along with an international team of assassins, Hansen won’t stop until he’s taken down Six. With The Gray Man released on Netflix - we explore the profound meaning behind the term ‘gray man’, uncovering the origins of the term, and sharing whether the film is based on a true story.

Not the only hotly anticipated film release this month, the latest instalment in the Thor franchise had audiences entranced. Fans particularly wanted to know how many end credit scenes in Thor: Love and Thunder, and the meaning behind them. Whilst other movie fans were seeking answers on where to watch Zombies 3 - the sci-fi come musical teen film that's got quite the social media following. 

The Gray Man: What does it mean? 

A gray man is an average person who does not stand out in a crowd or draw attention to themselves in any way. In military terms, such as for Sierra Six in the film, it means the person who never fails to get their job done before moving away quietly. 

According to survival site Imminent Threat Solutions, the art of being a gray man is to be ordinary in every circumstance. Dress must be neutral and do nothing to create memories - no bright colours or memorable slogans.

Mannerisms should be small and discreet, with no sweeping gestures or overt energy. Movements should be matched to surroundings, impersonating the speed people generally move, gestures they make, and volume and speed they speak with. 

Ultimately, being a gray man is the art of blending seamlessly between different societies and cultures, where nobody would identify or remember them afterwards.

The Gray Man: Plot 

According to What to Watch, The Gray Man begins with Ryan Gosling - in the titular role - imprisoned. Playing Court Gentry, his character is recruited by Donald Fitzroy (Billy Bob Thornton) to become an “agency-sanctioned merchant of death”. Fitzroy facilitates Gentry’s release from prison, where he is given the codename Sierra Six. 

When Six unwittingly uncovers dark secrets about the agency, he’s forced to go on the run. Former colleague Lloyd Hansen (Chris Evans) puts a bounty on his head. Hansen had lasted 6 months as a CIA operative, before being dismissed for unauthorised torture - his personality is generally thought to be psychotic. 

Due to the price on his head, international assassins come on board in an attempt to secure the cash for his capture - this results in an international manhunt spanning the globe. The only person Six can trust is fellow agent Dani Miranda (Ana de Armas).

Is the Gray Man based on a true story? 

The Gray Man isn’t a true story, but instead is based on a series of books by Mark Greaney. There are 11 books in the series in total, and the first book - The Gray Man - was published in 2009. 

The Gray Man was also Mark Greaney’s debut international novel, reaching number 1 in the New York Times bestsellers list. He’s also co-authored the 7 Jack Ryan novels with Tom Clancy, the most recent being True Faith and Allegiance. 

Speaking to Crime Spree Magazine about the differences between The Gray Man book and the film, Greaney said “I read the script when they started filming. They did change some things. With so many people involved in making the movie, there is always creative influences”.

He added “Characters who were not in the first book but did come along later in the book series are introduced in the movie. It is true to the spirit of the longer story of the first book. The dialogue was clever for the story”. 

The Gray Man: Books in order

• The Gray Man (2009)
• On Target (2010)
• Ballistic (2011)
• Dead Eye (2013)
• Back Blast (2016)
• Gunmetal Gray (2017)
• Agent in Place (2018)
• Mission Critical (2019)
• One Minute Out (2020)
• Relentless (2021)
• Sierra Six (2022)

Is The Gray Man a Marvel movie?

No, The Gray Man is not a Marvel movie. It is howver directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, who directed the last two Marvel epics, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame. 

Confusion has arisen about The Gray Man being connected to Marvel, with Russo and Russo being connected to it, and often being asked about their Marvel connection in interviews about The Gray Man. Vanity Fair referred to the film as “just another Marvel movie, only without magic stones or aliens”, which could be misconstrued as an implication it’s a Marvel film.

Similarly, NBC News ran an interview with Russo and Russo, running it on Twitter with the caption “The Russo brothers discuss the high stakes around ‘The Gray Man’, the shaky economics of streaming and recent complaints about a ‘quality problem’ inside the Marvel assembly line”. This resulted in commenters discussing Marvel films, possibly mistakenly believing the franchises were linked.  

The Gray Man cast 

• Ryan Gosling (La La Land, First Man) as Sierra Six
• Chris Evans (Captain America, Avengers) as Lloyd Hansen
• Ana de Armas (No Time To Die, Deep Water) as Dani Miranda 
• Jessica Henwick (Underwater, On The Rocks) as Suzanne Brewer 
• Regé-Jean Page (Bridgerton, Waterloo Road) as Denny Carmichael 
• Wagner Moura (Narcos, Shining Girls) as Laszlo Sosa
•  Julia Butters (Once Upon a Time In Hollywood, American Housewife) as Claire Fitzroy
• Dhanush (Maryan, Anegan) as Avik San 
• Alfre Woodard (The Last Ship, See) as Margaret Cahill
• Billy Bob Thornton (Friday Night Lights, Fargo) as Donald Fitzroy  

Who is the villain in The Gray Man?

The villain is Lloyd Hansen, played by Chris Evans. The character has been compared with Evans’ most well known persona - Captain America - with the Joker.

Speaking to Empire about his villainous role, The Gray Man co-writer Stephen McFeely said unpredictability of the character of Lloyd Hansen spices up every scene he appears in. He told them “He’s a trainwreck of a human being. That guy can be anything in any scene, because all he wants is anarchy”.

A Twitter user praised Evans’ performance, saying “Saw The Gray Man today, it was a fun action movie with a sequel hook ending that I hope gets expanded upon. The cast is great with Chris Evans stealing the show as he usually does”.

Is The Gray Man coming to Netflix? 

Yes, The Gray Man is coming to Netflix on Friday July 22. Though it has also enjoyed a limited theatrical release from July 15. The film is Netflix’s most expensive to date, costing a budget busting $200 million to make, and has a running time of 2 hours and 2 minutes.

There are 3 Netflix packages available for those wanting to subscribe. The cheapest package costs £6.99 per month, and this basic starting price includes unlimited access to the Netflix catalogue. With this, subscribers can only stream from one device at a time. 

At £10.99 per month, the standard package also includes the entire Netflix catalogue. However, simultaneous streaming from 2 devices is allowed. This package also has shows in HD, and allows downloads to mobile devices. 

The final premium package costs £15.99 per month, and features bonuses including allowing streaming across 4 devices, and contains most of the catalogue in Ultra HD. 

Video of the Week

After struggling with infertility and bereavement, is Mel's pregnancy the key to the happy ending she deserves?

For a sleepy rural town, Virgin River has seen its fair share of drama. When bereaved Nurse Practitioner Mel Monroe moved to the isolated California backwater, she was trying to escape her demons and find peace. So far, her new life with the colourful characters of the small town has been anything but peaceful. In her working life she’s had to win over grumpy boss Doc, who made it clear her presence in his practice was unwanted. She’s also struggled with her feelings for local bar owner Jack, and the many hurdles the two have been forced to jump through to be together.

Mel isn’t the only town resident struggling with love - rival Charmaine is pregnant with twins in Virgin River too, and fans aren’t sure Jack is really the father. (though most will find this question answered in the Virgin River season 4 ending) As usual, all the drama takes place against a stunning country backdrop that makes up where Virgin River is filmed. Although pregnancy is teased for Mel, viewers worry she might lose her baby, with the high-risk nature of any future pregnancies.

Is Mel pregnant at the end of Virgin River season 3?  

Yes, at the end of season 3, Mel has revealed she is pregnant. During season 3 episode 10 - the final episode of the series - Jack is about to propose to Mel. Just before fans get to see the moment 3 seasons has been building up to, Mel stuns Jack by announcing her pregnancy. 

In previous flashbacks, we know that Mel lost a baby daughter when she was living in Los Angeles, to stillbirth. Following that tragic incident, she struggled with fertility, and was undergoing IVF with her then husband Mark. After Mark's death and Mel’s move to Virgin River, she appeared to make peace with never realising her dream of becoming a mother, focusing instead on delivering local babies in her role as Nurse Practitioner and Midwife.

However, during season 3, Mel reignited the idea of being a mother, despite Jack not being hugely on board with the idea. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly about Mel’s resurfaced dreams of pursuing motherhood, Mel actress Alexandra Breckenridge said “When I initially read that scene I thought, 'Wow, that is a big thing to jump into'". 

She continued to add: “But when I look at her journey and how much she's wanted to become a mother for so long...that is a driving force with her. She gets to this place where she feels that she has to be open and honest with him at this point in their relationship, because it is something that she really wants. She wants that intimacy, she wants that honesty, and she is willing to dive in”.

Is Mel pregnant with Jack or Mark’s baby?

When delivering Jack the news, Mel also says she doesn’t know who the father is. She says it could be Jack’s, or deceased husband Mark’s. This is an even bigger bombshell for Jack to take, who is already dealing with other paternity issues

Jack split from Mel when she began talking about trying for a baby. With Charmaine already pregnant, and marrying another man whom she made clear would act as the babies’ father, Jack didn’t want the extra complication of another baby.

Not wanting to get in the way of Mel’s dream, he split from her to allow her to become a mother with another partner, if her desire for a child was so strong. With this baby news dropping at an already precarious time in the couple’s relationship, season 4 will tell if the couple can survive yet another obstacle thrown at them.

It appears that Twitter users are overwhelmingly hoping the baby will be Jack’s. This is unsurprising as so many have spent 3 seasons rooting for the popular couple. One Twitter user posted a poll, asking “Who do you think is the father of Mel’s baby?” 97.6% of respondents felt Jack would turn out to be the father.

How can Mel be pregnant with Mark’s baby?

While Mel and Jack were on a break, Mel travelled to Los Angeles to undergo IVF using the remaining embryos from her previous treatment with Mark. 

Fans were initially confused as to how Mark could be the father, as he had been deceased for over a year before Mel announced her pregnancy. However, it later transpired that in her quest to become a mother, Mel had decided to have one last go at fertility treatment with her remaining embryos before returning to Virgin River.

Even with this information, fans remain unconvinced about Mark’s potential to be the father. Mel travelled on a whim to Los Angeles to discuss the treatment with her Dr there. However, the process of IVF can take over 4 weeks, and with some of the assessments and tests required to ensure optimum conditions for the embryo, can take even longer.

It therefore appears unlikely that the IVF would have worked. Even if Mel’s Doctor did agree to implant the embryos in the short time she was away, if she were truly infertile she would’ve been required to prepare her body to receive them. She also appeared to announce the pregnancy as soon as she returned to Virgin River, and would also have been unlikely to have a positive pregnancy test in that period of time.

Does Mel get pregnant in the Virgin River books? 

Yes, in Robyn Carr’s Virgin River book series, Mel and Jack eventually have a baby boy named David. However, in the books, Mel did not lose a child - this element was made up purely for the tv show.

Mel actress Alexandra Breckenridge took to Instagram to share videos of herself trying on her baby bump prosthetics for the filming of season 4. Wearing nothing but the flesh coloured baby bump bodysuit, she told the camera the bump was the same size as an 8 month pregnant stomach.

Eventually putting her dress on over the top of the bump, she told viewers that taking toilet breaks while wearing the suits - that are a little like leotards - is extremely difficult.

Virgin River season 3 recap 

Apart from Mel being pregnant and not knowing who the father is, a lot else happens in season 3 of Virgin River. The series began with Jack in hospital after being shot. Luckily, his fate is quickly resolved and viewers see him back in his bar, fully recovered. The only issue is, he can’t remember who shot him. 

After a whirlwind romance with lawyer Todd, Charmaine is now married to him - marrying after only 3 weeks. Pregnant with Jack’s twins, Todd appears to be steering Charmaine away from Jack, and her friends in Virgin River. Todd forces Charmaine to give up the dog Jack gave her, and wants to legally adopt the twins. It appears he wants to make Jack as miserable as possible.

New character Brie arrives at Virgin River - she’s Jack’s sister. She immediately finds a friend in Brady, and the two have their individual demons they’re battling. Brie is running from her former boyfriend, a lawyer who abused and raped her. She later has a miscarriage, being unaware at the time she is pregnant. The baby was a result of the abuse she suffered.

Brady is trying to cut ties with Calvin from the dope farm, who has been killing people all over the place. Brady is eventually arrested for Jack’s shooting by Mike, when the gun used in the incident is found at Brady's house. Brady insists he’s been framed, and viewers agree that questions remain surrounding his guilt. 

Preacher nearly left Virgin River to take up a new chef position that held a lot of potential. However, he was forced to remain where he is when Paige - still on the run for murdering her abusive husband - enlists him to care for her young son Chrsitopher. Paige’s friend Sally later contacts Preacher to set up a meeting with him and Paige. Desperate to know how his former love interest is, Preacher goes with Sally, who drugs him. Leaving him for dead, no reason for her actions are revealed. 

Hope was left in a coma at the end of season 3, following a car crash. Absent for the majority of the season due to being trapped in Port Royal because of a hurricane, she crashes her car just as she arrives back in Virgin River. With severe brain injuries, she is placed in a medically induced coma while Drs see how she recovers. Ater her heart attack in season 1, Hope isn’t having much luck with her health. 

With Hope out of the picture and Doc coming to terms with his macular degeneration diagnosis, he once again gets close to Muriel. A mysterious young man also turns up in Virgin River, claiming Doc is his grandfather - this is a surprise to viewers who think Doc has no children.

With Doc possibly having to wind down his hours at the surgery, he hires a new Dr to take on some hours. Handsome Dr Cameron Hayek makes an impression on the female contingent of Virgin River, whom they find refreshing after the gruffness of Doc for so many years. 

Lily sadly dies of cancer. She receives her diagnosis then passes away very quickly afterwards. Her daughter Tara steps in to look after baby Chloe, and they’ll be living at Lily’s farm together. Tara could potentially be a new recurring character for season 4.

Virgin River season 4 release date 

Virgin River season 4 was released on Netflix on July 20, 2022. The new series has 12 episodes in total for viewers to watch, each one lasting around 1 hour in length.

There are 3 Netflix packages available to purchase, with prices starting at £6.99 per month. This cheapest option includes unlimited access to the Netflix catalogue. Subscribers can only stream from one device at a time with the basic package.

A mid-range option costs £10.99 per month. This standard package also includes the entire Netflix catalogue, while also allowing simultaneous streaming from 2 devices. Some shows and films will be available in HD, and downloadable to mobile devices. 

The premium package is priced at £15.99 per month, featuring extra bonuses. These include the ability to stream across 4 devices simultaneously, and most of the catalogue is available in Ultra HD. 

 Video of the Week 

Lucifer fans are eager to know if the popular Netflix show will be returning for a seventh season.

Hit urban fantasy drama Lucifer had a rocky start before enjoying consistently good reviews and building a cult following during its 6 year run. Based on the DC Comics character Lucifer Morningstar, the occult figure was first introduced to comic book readers in The Sandman series. As the DC interpretation of the devil played by Tom Ellis, Lucifer has left hell behind to run the Lux nightclub in Los Angeles, also acting as a consultant to the LAPD. 

Netflix viewers have no shortage of fantasy and sci-fi horror viewing available, with Stranger Things season Volume 2 breaking some streaming records. Also a comic book adaption, the Umbrella Academy season 3 recently came to a dramatic conclusion with all 3 seasons available to stream. Delving into a further DC Comics universe, The Boys season 3 is coming to what is set to be an explosive conclusion for this season of the Amazon hit.    

 How many seasons of Lucifer is there? 

There are currently 6 seasons of Lucifer available. The first 3 seasons ran in the US on Fox. The first season received mixed reviews, and despite seasons 2 and 3 seeing an improved critical response, Fox cancelled it after season 3 came to an end. Seasons 1 - 3 then made their way to Amazon Prime Video for a time, when it appeared the show was over for good. 

Netflix then picked up Lucifer for a further 2 seasons, and its popularity exploded. Netflix planned to end the series after season 5, changing their minds and announcing a further 6th season.

It was Netflix’s most popular original streaming show for 2021, topping the charts at the number one spot for the year. This equates to collectively racking up 18.34 billion minutes of viewing time. 

Warner Bros. Television who are involved in the production and distribution of the show, revealed their joy at the show’s popularity. Sharing a post to Twitter, they said “Big congrats to #Lucifer on being @Netflix’s #1 most-streamed original series of 2021 in the US! We owe our fans a huge thanks for raising some hell when it comes to the streams”.

Lucifer: Episodes per season

• Season 1: 13 episodes
• Season 2: 18 episodes
• Season 3: 26 episodes
• Season 4: 10 episodes
• Season 5: 16 episodes
• Season 6: 10 episodes

Actors in Lucifer 

• Tom Ellis (Miranda, The Fades) as Lucifer Morningstar
• Lauren German (Hawaii Five-O, Chicago Fire) as Detective Chloe Decker
• Kevin Alejandro (Southland, True Blood) as Detective Daniel 'Dan' Espinoza
• D. B. Woodside (Buffy The Vampire Slayer, 24) as Amenadiel
• Lesley-Ann Brandt (Single Ladies, Gotham) as Mazikeen/Lillith
• Scarlett Estevez (Daddy’s Home, Bunk’d) as Beatrice 'Trixie' Espinoza
• Rachael Harris (New Girl, Suits) as Dr. Linda Martin
• Aimee Garcia (Vegas, Dexter) as Ella Lopez  
• Brianna Hildebrand (Deadpool, Trinkets) as Aurora or 'Rory'        

In a video shared by Netflix on Twitter, Tom Ellis spoke about the character of Lucifer. On reading the script for the show, he said "when I first got the pilot script for Lucifer, by about the third page I was like 'my God, this character is brilliant and I have to play him'".

Of how much he enjoyed the filming process, he continued to say "One day I'll be doing something completely ridiculous and so silly, and the next day there will be a very emotional and heartfelt scene", finally concluding that he "loved every minute of it".

Will there be a season 7 of Lucifer? 

No there is no season 7 of Lucifer planned, as season 6 is the final season of the show. In September 2021, Netflix confirmed that season 6 would be the final season. 

They said “After six seasons of solving crimes on Earth, resolving drama in heaven and hell, and making all the mischief one could desire, Lucifer Morningstar finally found his true calling in the creatively ambitious sixth season of Lucifer. In the final 10 episodes, Lucifer wrestled with whether or not he actually wanted to be God, a matter that became increasingly complicated in the wake of the arrival of his and Chloe’s adult daughter from the future.”  

Commenting on Tom Ellis’s Instagram picture announcing the arrival of season 6, one fan said that they weren’t ready for the series to end, expressing hope that there could be a follow up film. Multiple fans agreed that they still had hope Lucifer would continue in some form. 

Show writer and co-executive producer Chris Rafferty shared a photo of the cast to Twitter, on what was the final day of filming. Some cast members can be seen crying, with Chris saying that goodbyes, tears, and hugs were all abundant on the final day of shooting.  

Where to watch Lucifer 

All seasons are currently available to watch on Netflix. Until May of this year, season 1 - 3 were still only available on Amazon Prime Video. However, following the final episode of season 6 dropping in 2021, Netflix now has all series available to stream. 

A tweet from Netflix UK and Ireland confirmed this, saying “On 29 May seasons 1-3 of Lucifer are coming to Netflix UK/IE, so all 6 seasons will finally be available in one place! Nice”.

Video of the Week

Netflix users could soon see adverts when they're streaming their favourite shows, but why exactly is Netflix adding commercials?

Whether you're a fan of shows like Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey and Web of Make Belief, or period dramas like Bridgerton, you may have noticed ads popping up while you've been streaming on Netflix lately. 

Aside from the Netflix price increases, the American subscription streaming service is looking at introducing something that is expected to get on people's nerves when it includes adverts across some of its packages. 

Why is Netflix adding commercials?

Netflix is looking to add commercials across all of its streaming packages in a bid to boost its earnings. Netflix CEO, Reed Hastings announced the ads could come into effect in the "next year or two" and he suggested it would allow for a "lower price" - despite having hiked up the cost of the service for users in recent years.

Netflix has been losing subscribers as many people look to save money on Netflix and other subscriptions following the cost of living crisis.

A recent earnings report revealed that it lost 200,000 subscribers in the first three months of 2022—and is expected to shed an additional 2 million across the globe by June.

And the streaming service already announced plans to curb the number of users password sharing.

So it's likely that with these upcoming changes, users will either opt for the lower package that will contain ads or many more could cancel their subscriptions altogether.

Why am I getting ads while watching Netflix?

Subscribers might start and wonder why am I getting ads while watching Netflix? It's because the streaming platform has now decided that advertising is an "exciting opportunity" to grow.

Previously users were allowed to watch videos instantly and without any commercial breaks - unlike mainstream TV channels or other streaming services.

But this change in stance and format could be set to annoy some users.

Mr Hastings said, “Those who have followed Netflix know that I have been against the complexity of advertising, and a big fan of the simplicity of subscription.

“But as much as I am a fan of that, I am a bigger fan of consumer choice. And allowing consumers who would like to have a lower price, and are advertising-tolerant, get what they want, makes a lot of sense.”

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert poked fun at the possible ad introduction and you can watch a clip of it below...

It's understood that customers could pay less for their subscription package is they choose to have the adverts, similar to initiatives already implemented by Hulu, Disney and HBO - who all offer cheaper ad-funded tiers.

Mr Hastings stressed that Netflix would NOT be using data tracking.

He added, "In terms of the profit potential, definitely the online ad market has advanced, and now you don’t have to incorporate all the information about people that you used to. We can stay out of that, and really be focused on our members, creating that great experience.”

When is Netflix introducing ads?

Netflix could be set to introduce ads as part of ad-supported, lower-priced subscription tiers as early as by the end of 2022, after The New York Times reported that company executives told employees in a recent note that they maybe available in the last three months of 2022.

Fans of mystery and thriller writer Harlan Coben are wondering if he has any series on Netflix and if so, which ones.

Many streaming platform subscribers love a good thriller or crime mystery like The Staircase or Anatomy of a Scandal and even The Midwich Cuckoos to make the hairs on the back of their neck stand up.

But there's work from one writer that fans are keen to tune in to as we look at how they can watch the TV adaptations of the works of Harlan Coben, who has Fool Me Once adaptation coming to Netflix...

Does Harlan Coben have a series on Netflix?

Yes Harlan Coben has his latest series Hold Tight on Netflix. This was originally released back in April. It is an adaptation of his ninth novel which was written back in 2008. The six-part drama was filmed in Poland and is available to watch with English subtitles.

But if you've already binged watched all the episodes and are looking for some more of his works, then he has plenty of other series available to watch on UK Netflix.

How many Harlan Coben series are on Netflix?

There are currently SEVEN Harlan Coben Netflix series available to stream and these have been available since 2016. Aside from his latest release Hold Tight, fans can tune in to Stay Close, The Stranger, Innocent, Safe, Gone For Good and The Woods. But there will be more offerings from Harlan as he signed a deal with the streaming platform to bring 14 shows to the service, which is good news for fans as there are still seven outstanding.

Simply type in Harlan Coben into the search feature and it will display all his current available shows and you can then add them to your watch 'list'.

What is the next Harlan Coben series on Netflix?

The next Harlan Coben series likely to land on Netflix is not yet known but his Netflix deal covers seven more releases on the platform.

His upcoming series Shelter is currently in pre-production stage but he confirmed it will be streamed on Amazon Prime once complete.

The series follows the story of Mickey Bolitar and his new life with a mom in rehab, a dead father, an annoying aunt, and a new school in New Jersey. He goes through a lot of changes with his dad dead when suddenly an old lady tells him his dad isn't dead while his new friend Ashley goes missing, so Mickey navigates to find out what's going on.

Author, Harlan has a series of gripping TV adaptations of his 33 novels and with it he is earning himself an army of new fans who are only just discovering his material so there's bound to be more Netflix ones in the pipeline.

Harlan has just released two new books Win and The Match, so it's likely that they may feature on the screen in the future.

Full list of Harlan Coben books:

• Hold Tight
• Six Years
• Deal Breaker
• Drop Shot
• Fade Away
• Back Spin
• Long Lost
• Don't Let Go
• Stay Close
• The Final Detail
• Darkest Fear
• Missing You
• Promise Me
• Live Wire
• No Second Chance
• Home
• Caught
• Shelter
• Seconds Away
• Found
• The Stranger
• The Boy From the Woods
• Run Away
• Play Dead
• One False Move
• Miracle Cure
• Tell No One
• Gone For Good
• Just One Look
• The Innocent
• The Woods
• Fool Me Once

Where can I watch Harlan Coben?

You can watch Harlan Coben shows on Netflix or Amazon Prime. Amzon Prime has season one of No Second Chance. Apple TV is streaming The Five and it is also available to stream on NOW, Prime Video and iTunes.

The BBC have announced they that are closing down children's channel CBBC in a major channel shake-up

The broadcasting company says that audiences, especially younger viewers, are just not engaging with the channels due to streaming platforms like Netflix.

BBC Director-General, Tim Davies said in a statement that this move will enable them to build a ‘digital-first BBC’. 

Davies continued, “Something genuinely new, a Reithian organization for the digital age, a positive force for the UK and the world. Independent, impartial, constantly innovating and serving all. A fresh, new, global digital media organization which has never been seen before."

Before adding, “They want us to keep the BBC relevant and fight for something that in 2022 is more important than ever.”

While this is very sad news for avid watchers of the channels, there is one silver lining!

Why is CBBC being closed down?

This change comes as audiences are continuing to opt for streaming rather than traditional, scheduled TV content. The BBC has seen less engagement with the channel, due to platforms like Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime offering masses of content online, with no TV license requirement - all for a monthly subscription.

This is no doubt a blow for parents and children alike, as the channel has been an integral part of many people’s childhoods since its launch in 1985.

CBBC has been home to the likes of Tracy Beaker, Raven and Blue Peter and while the CBBC channel is being axed from our televisions, it is not happening immediately.

CBBC  tweeted that it will remain as a ‘linear channel’ for a least three years and will then move to BBC iPlayer. So you will still be able to watch the likes of Blue Peter and Shaun the Sheep for free online but the channel will soon disappear from our TV guides. 

Understandably this change is heartbreaking for regular viewers and those who grew up with CBBC, with many taking to social media to share their disappointment. Others pointed out that the shake-up would mean children from less fortunate households may miss out on being able to watch TV.

One fan tweeted, “CBBC closing is heartbreaking, not even for nostalgia reasons but growing up CBBC was literally the only children's TV channel I had. Not everyone can afford Sky, Disney Plus and Netflix just for their kids to watch something, give them an option.”

While another added, “This is going to be detrimental to children from working-class families who can't afford streaming services or sky packages, I grew up with CBBC as one of my only source of kids shows.”

“A real shame to be honest, CBBC was my childhood," one more wrote. 

It can be difficult to know exactly when you do and don’t need a TV licence. Nowadays there’s a whole host of different channels to choose from thanks to the addition of satellite and cable TV, plus many of us use streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney. This means the way we watch TV has changed dramatically since the TV licence was first introduced in 1946. 

When you consider how much the TV Licence costs, covering the cost of a licence can be a struggle for a lot of people. And it's a significant cost if you don't actually need one.

Editor of news and reviews site Cordbusters, Or Goren, told us: “With the cost of living crisis running rampant, many people are looking to save on their TV watching.
With so many different TV services available these days, ditching the TV licence fee is a relatively easy way to save £159/year - as long as you follow the rules.”

However, if you simply decide to stop paying for your TV licence, you could be faced with a £1,000 fine, so it's vital you understand the rules around whether you do or don't need a TV licence.

Do I need a TV licence?

You need a TV licence if you’re watching or recording live TV. That doesn’t just mean live events but TV that’s being broadcast live. All channels, not just the BBC, apply. A licence fee is also triggered when watching live on online TV services such as:

• Now TV
• Amazon Prime
• Disney Plus
• Apple TV
• ITV Hub
• All 4.

So too will watching plus 1, plus 2 and plus 24 channels.

If you only watch programmes on demand, you do not need a TV licence. The big exception is BBC iPlayer. Even watching programmes on catch-up or downloading them from iPlayer to watch later are covered by the licence fee rules.

A fee is payable even if you’re not watching on a TV set. Additional devices include a desktop computer or laptop, a mobile phone, tablet, games console, a Freeview digital box or a Blu-ray/DVD or VHS recorder – if there are any still around.

The TV licence fee was introduced so that viewers could support and fund the creation of a wide range of BBC programmes and services. On top of the BBC’s TV and radio programmes it pays for podcasts, iPlayer, BBC World Service and apps. In 2021, fees collected by TV Licensing reached just over £3.75 billion and accounted for 74% of BBC funding.

Is it actually law to have a TV licence? 

If you watch live TV on any channel, or streaming service, or use BBC iPlayer in any way, then yes, the requirement to hold a TV licence and to pay a fee for it is mandated by law under the Communications Act 2003 and the Communications (Television Licensing) Regulations 2004. 

According to TV Licensing: “It is an offence under section 363 of the Communications Act 2003 to watch live on any channel, TV service or streaming service, or use BBC iPlayer on any device, without a valid TV licence.”  

What can I watch without a TV licence?

If you are only watching programmes on-demand or catch up, you don’t need a TV licence. However, most TV services now offer live programmes on their demand or catch up services, so be careful not to get caught out.

On-demand programmes refer to the service’s library of shows, box sets or films. Catch-up are programmes that have been shown recently that you may have missed. They are eventually removed from the hub.

Watching an old episode of Heartbeat or Coronation Street on ITV 3 that’s being broadcast live on the channel, so it’s listed on the schedule, is a fee-paying pastime. Watching last week’s episode of Britain’s Got Talent on catch up through the ITV hub is not.

BBC iPlayer is the exception to the rule. Any use of this service means you’ll need a licence.

Do I need a TV licence if I just watch Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney Plus?

If you are just streaming on-demand TV programmes and films through services like Netflix, you don’t need a TV licence. This is the same for YouTube and other online video streaming services. However, if you are watching live programming via any of these services, such as live football on Amazon Prime, you will need a TV licence. 

Do I need a TV licence for Sky?

If you’re using Sky, or any other satellite or cable service, to watch or record live TV then yes you’ll need a licence. That includes live TV you may have recorded on your planner. If you only watch programmes or films on demand, you don’t need a licence. 

Can I refuse to buy a TV licence? 

That depends. If you never watch live TV or BBC iPlayer, you don’t need to pay for a TV licence. But if you refuse to buy a TV licence when you should have one, you will be breaking the law which can have serious repercussions. 

Or Goren from Cordbusters says: “The number of people who decide to ditch the TV licence fee tends to grow year after year. If you don’t watch anything on the BBC (live or on iPlayer), and don’t watch anything live (that includes international live channels) - you can legally stop paying the TV licence fee.

“While those requirements were hard to follow in the past - these days, with so many people only watching streaming services like Netflix, or even free ones like ITVX (without watching the live broadcasts) - some people may be exempt from paying the fee without even realising it.” 

What happens if you don’t have a TV licence?

Non-payment of your TV licence fee, when you should have one, could lead to a fine of up to £1,000. You can’t go to prison for not paying your TV licence fee, but you could face a sentence for not paying the fine imposed on you as punishment. If you’re convicted you’ll get a criminal record. The record will only be visible if advanced criminal record checks are carried out on, rather than basic checks.

The government had discussed plans to decriminalise non-payment of the fine, but these were shelved in January last year. TV licence evasion has risen from 5.2% to 7.25% over the last ten years. 

 How do they catch you without a TV licence? 

TV Licensing uses a database of 31 million addresses as its main tool for detecting evaders, and says it identifies an average of 1,000 people a day watching without a licence.

Managing director at Money Expert, Philip Stubbins, adds: “According to the TV Licencing website, detector vans using TV receiving equipment are also used to find out whether you’re watching programmes without a TV licence and can provide evidence in minutes.”

However, these ‘secret’ methods of detection have, over the years, raised eyebrows among sceptics who doubt whether they exist.

Cord cutter Or Goren says: “This has always been a controversial issue, especially these days when many people are watching content on their phones, tablets or computers - and not on big TVs that those legendary spy vans can presumably detect. And yet, many people are still prosecuted for not paying the fee every year - so it’s always better to follow the law.” 

What happens if you move house?

When you move house, you’ll get a letter prompting you to apply for a licence. If you have a valid licence, you can update your address details to take your licence with you. If you ignore the letters or emails you might receive a knock on the door from TV Licensing.

 Money blogger Joseph Seager, who runs the Thriftychap.com blog, says: “They will have a lanyard detailing their official information and if you answer the door, ask you a number of questions about why you don't have a licence.” 

How many licences do you need in each household?

You only need one licence per household, regardless of the number of devices that household uses to watch TV. If you rent your home with other people, the rules depend on how the tenancy agreements are drawn up.

Renting with three other people in a house share, for example, where you each have your own tenancy agreement and separate bedrooms, means you’ll each need a licence. By having one, you can also watch TV in communal areas.

If you’re renting with someone else and you have a joint tenancy agreement, you only need one licence.

Students living in university accommodation will also need a TV licence to watch TV in their room. However, Money Expert’s Philip Stubbins adds: “If students live at another address outside of university term time, such as a parent or guardian’s home, they can use that TV licence providing its watched on a device such as a laptop or tablet.” 

How do I cancel my TV licence if I no longer need it?

If you don’t need a licence because of the way you watch television you can fill out a ‘no licence needed’ declaration. When you fill in the declaration it will stop letters being sent to your home for up to two years.

Money blogger Joseph Seager says: “Should you want to cancel your licence you can do so and apply for a refund via the TV licence website. If your licence is coming to an end and you don't want it anymore, simply don't renew it.” 

You can cancel your licence online. If you’ve paid for your TV licence in full and decide to cancel it because you no longer watch live TV you may be eligible for a refund for the unused months.

TV Licensing works out whether you’re eligible for a refund based on the date your licence was issued, when it expires and when you can show that you do not need the licence from. To be eligible you must have a full month left on your licence, which you don’t need to use, before it expires. If you pay your fee in instalments your expiry date could be changed to reflect how much you’ve paid towards the total cost.

As soon as you’ve received your refund your licence is cancelled.

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Meghan Markle has reportedly received some seriously sad news as she suffers a new career blow with the cancellation of a highly-anticipated project.

• The Duchess of Sussex was set to bring a new Netflix children’s series to life in the not-too-distant future. 
• Now reports have suggested that the streaming giant has cancelled the show months after Meghan Markle expressed her excitement about the venture. 
• This royal news comes as Prince Harry’s special warning to Prince William on his wedding day was revealed.

Since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle “stepped back” as senior members of The Firm two years ago, the couple have gone on to establish several major new projects and partnerships away from the royal spotlight. Perhaps the most prominent of these are Harry and Meghan’s Netflix deal and their Spotify podcast deal, with a brand new Netflix series being announced last year. The project, which some fans claimed she named after herself, was given the working title, Pearl. 

The Duchess and David Furnish were announced as executive producers but now Meghan Markle has suffered a new career blow as its reported Pearl will go no further.

Just last month, the platform is said to have revealed a loss in subscribers which negatively affected their market value. Now, according to the BBC, Netflix has now reportedly cancelled the development of Pearl as part of a cost-saving measure. 

The animated series was set to follow a 12-year-old girl called Pearl as she’s inspired by exceptional and influential women in her own special journey to discover who she truly is.

Opening up in a statement to finally share news of the project with fans in July last year, Meghan declared she was “eager” to bring the series to life on screen.

“Like many girls her age, our heroine Pearl is on a journey of self-discovery as she tries to overcome life’s daily challenges,” she stated at the time. “I’m thrilled that Archewell Productions, partnered with the powerhouse platform of Netflix, and these incredible producers, will together bring you this new animated series, which celebrates extraordinary women throughout history.

"David Furnish and I have been eager to bring this special series to light, and I am delighted we are able to announce it today.”

Despite her obvious passion for the project, it seems Meghan’s Netflix series will never be brought to fans as she’d hoped. However, this was only one of several projects Netflix is understood to have been working on with the Sussexes.

It’s thought that the streaming giant will continue with a number of them, including Heart of Invictus, a documentary series. This will cast a light on a group of truly remarkable competitors from around the world as they prepared for the recent Invictus Games in The Hague.

Prince Harry and Meghan flew to Europe from their new LA home to attend the Games and the couple even paid a joint UK visit to see the Queen at Windsor Castle ahead of this.

Although Meghan Markle might be disappointed at the reported cancellation of Pearl, she and Harry will likely be looking forward to seeing their documentary series air across the world. 

Sky customers have claimed that tweaking your subscription for the TV service could save you hundreds of pounds every year as the cost of living continues to rise.

With rising living costs, more Brits are looking for tools to save money. Customers are noticing a major decrease in their expenses after ringing Sky to 'check' their contract and asking about reductions and specials available.

Changing to a cheaper energy plan is usually the best method to combat rising energy costs. However, several suppliers have increased their tariff charges as a result of the energy crisis. As a result, there aren't many bargains to be had.

And, one savvy homeowner shared their experience on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK Facebook page, explaining, "Realised just out of contract with Sky, ring them up and reduce bills immediately from £62.50 a month to £46 inc Netflix, which in turn saves me a further £9.99 a month. Over 18 months that'll be nearly £600. Always worth checking contract dates."

Others described having a similar experience after sharing the story, adding, "Rang sky to see if I could lower my bill. Like you out of contract and managed to reduce bill by just over £20 a month. Worth making the phone call."

While there are now 12 ways to save money on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney Plus TV streaming services, another pleased customer shared that by refusing to "accept their first offer," they were able to reduce their monthly bill from £74 to £40.

Another group member wrote,"Got £52.50 deal yesterday. Super fast broadband, HD, Netflix, line rental."

Getting a great deal a fourth claimed, "Got mine to £56 down from £93. Always worth a call and be polite but pushy."

When paying for a subscription, it's usually tempting to opt for a monthly payment to spread the cost out over the year. However, paying annually is usually more cost-effective, especially if you know you won't want to cancel it during that time.

It looks like Kate Middleton is set to make her first appearance in The Crown as Netflix starts the search for an actress to play her.

• The Crown season five is headed for Netflix in November 2022, with Netflix bosses already posting audition calls for the season six cast.
• It seems the next instalment will detail William and Kate’s first meeting as reports claim they’re now looking for her actress.
• This royal news comes after it was revealed the Queen once gave the SASSIEST response when she was asked to remove her crown.

Netflix is reportedly on the hunt for an actress to play Kate Middleton in season six of The Crown, with viewers likely to see the start of her love story with Prince William play out on screen. 

This comes just weeks after show runners posted a casting call for Prince William and Harry for the ages of 16-21 for the sixth and final season. 

In the post, they are asking for actors who share a ‘strong physical resemblance’ to the brothers - after struggling to cast Harry in season five.

Now according to the Daily Star, the series will delve into the early parts of William and Kate’s relationship, including their meeting at St Andrews University. 

However, a source claims Kate will likely only have a small role, as the show will focus mainly on the Queen’s reign during the late 90s to early 2000s.

They said, “Having the Duchess of Cambridge starring is an easy win for The Crown, as the creators know it will get more people watching. Particularly as it will show her relationship with William just as their romance starts to blossom when they were both students.

"But since she's not necessarily a crucial part of the storyline, Kate’s presence is essentially a bonus, they'll only cast someone if they can find the right candidate.”

The penultimate and final seasons of the hit show are likely to be very poignant for William and Harry. As the upcoming series will show the breakdown of Prince Charles’ marriage to Princess Diana, and subsequently, her tragic death in 1997.

The personal content of the show will reportedly pose a ‘dilemma’ for Harry who has signed a mega-deal with Netflix. 

However, The Crown’s producers have previously stated that they are ‘very conscious’ of the responsibility, they have to William and Harry in portraying the ‘excruciating loss’ of their mother.

As the show gets a new radio revival, many want to know where to watch Our Friends in the North starring a now infamous crop of British acting talent. 

It was the show that launched the careers of a beloved James Bond actor and a future Doctor Who. Starring Christopher Eccleston, a long-haired Daniel Craig, Notting Hill's Gina McKee and Kingsmen actor Mark Strong - it explored the changing political and social landscape of Britain between the 60s and 90s. And though it featured less than 10 episodes, it's widely considered one of the greatest British TV dramas ever made.

Those that want to catch a glimpse of the young No Time to Die star or simply wish to revisit the drama classic will be pleased to know it's available online to stream. So in between your Bad Vegan and Anna Delvey Netflix series binging - be sure to check out this critically acclaimed piece of television.

Where can I watch Our Friends in the North?

Modern audiences can watch Our Friends in the North on Britbox. All nine episodes of the original BBC series can be found on the British streaming site - which can be accessed via the Britbox app or Amazon Prime.

New subscribers can get a free 7-day Britbox trial to watch the series. This is available direct through Britbox and on Prime Video. You'll need to enter your card details but won't be charged if you cancel after a week.

The show first premiered in 1996 and celebrated it's 25th anniversary in 2021. To mark the occasion, former cast and crew members came together to reminisce the series.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EM6sa_iQAl0

In March 2022, it was announced that Our Friends in the North was being re-written for a radio audience. Manchester-born writer Adam Usden has penned a new episode set in 2020. It will air on BBC Radio 4 on Thursdays at 14:15. Though you can always listen via BBC Sounds.

What is Our Friends in the North about?

Our Friends in the North follows four friends living in Newcastle. Starting in the 1960s and ending in 1995 - each episode sees the characters develop and adapt to the changing circumstances of the time over four decades. In addition to exploring the state of personal relationships, storylines include real-life political events like the miners strike and 1990s Westminster cash for questions.

The first episode starts in 1964, introducing us to the four firm friends. The next 2 episodes remain in the 1960s, whilst episodes 4-6 are based in the 1970s. The seventh and eighth episode take place in the 1980s with the ninth and final episode ending in 1995.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kwf1t8sTcyE

Our Friends in the North: Cast

• Christopher Eccleston (Doctor Who, Close to Me) plays Nicky Hutchinson
• Mark Strong (Sherlock Holmes and Kingsmen films) plays Terry "Tosker" Cox
• Gina McKee (Notting Hill, Bodyguard) plays Mary Cox
• Daniel Craig (James Bond films, Layer Cake, Knives Out) plays Geordie Peacock
• Peter Vaughan (Game of Thrones, Porridge) as Felix Hutchinson
• David Bradley (Harry Potter, Game of Thrones) plays Eddie Wells
• Tracey Wilkinson (Bad Girls) plays Elaine Cox
• Alun Armstrong (New Tricks) plays Austin Donohue
• Malcolm McDowell (Clockwork Orange, Star Trek) plays Benny Barratt
• Donald Sumpter (Being Human, Game of Thrones) plays Harold Chapple

Actress Gina McKee picked up the BAFTA for Best Actress in 1997 for her role as Mary in the show. Our Friends in the North also won the BAFTA for Best Drama Serial in the same year. Whilst Christopher Eccleston and Peter Vaughan were also nominated for the Best Actor category.

Interestingly Christopher Eccleston was first offered the role of Geordie (played by Craig). Though he found the character of Nicky more interesting.

Video of the Week:

Both Netflix and Disney+ have hiked their prices, so knowing how to reduce how much you pay while still enjoying your favourite TVs will be important to many families. 

While some people might know how to get Disney+ for free, or have already cancelled payment plans for the services they watch the least, there are still plenty of other ways you can reduce how much you pay to watch TV and movies. When you consider that more than six million households in the UK are signed up to more than one streaming service, according to Finder, and the cost of living still high, price hikes are hard for households to factor into their family budgets. 

Luckily, we've found 13 ways you can (legally) watch your favourite shows and movies for less. 

1. Downgrade your subscription to a cheaper plan

Streaming giants Netflix and Disney+ have started offering different levels of subscription plans, with the cheapest offering the same shows and movies, but with ads and a limit on other features, like how many devices can watch it at one time, or whether it's possible to download programmes or films to watch offline. At the other end of the scale, premium subscription plans are ad-free, streaming in high definition, and with capacity for multiple devices to stream at the same time. 

So if you are on a mid-range or premium plan, you could save money by downgrading to a cheaper plan. For example, if you're a Premium Netflix subscriber, you could save £5 per month by dropping to a standard plan. Or if you were prepared to have adverts as part of your subscription, then you could make a significant saving, paying just £4.99 per month instead of £15.99.

If you are an existing Netflix subscriber, you might have been paying £6.99 (although this was upped to £7.99 in October) per month, which is the cheapest way to enjoy Netflix without any ads. But unfortunately, as of July 2023, the streaming giant no longer offers this package to new or rejoining customers. If you are on this cheaper subscription plan, you can remain on it until you change plans or cancel your account.

With Amazon, you could save money by switching from an Amazon Prime account, which costs £8.99 per month, to Prime Video, which costs £5.99 per month. You won't get the other perks of Amazon Prime membership, such as free premium delivery, but it's a move worth making if you just want to stream TV content without paying extra. 

As of 1 November 2023, Disney+ has introduced new subscription plans, including a premium one at £10.99 per month and a standard-with-ads version at £4.99 per month, as well as the standard ad-free version at £7.99 per month. Existing customers will automatically be moved to the premium version and will need to downgrade to the standard version if they don't want the premium version. 

2. Set a diary reminder for your subscription renewals

Whether you've signed up for a free trial of a TV streaming service or opted for a regular monthly or annual commitment, it's worth making a note of when your streaming payment is due for renewal. They tend to roll over without notice - almost as if the providers are hoping you might, well, forget about them.

Consequently, you can end up paying for services that you've forgotten you signed up for or no longer use. To avoid wasting money, set a reminder on your phone's calendar so you'll be prompted to reconsider your subscription each time it comes to an end.

3. Pay annually instead of monthly when you renew your subscription

It's always tempting to opt for a monthly payment when you're forking out for a subscription so that you can spread the cost over the year. However, this is usually more expensive overall. 

It's generally more cost-effective to pay annually - so if you can afford to sign up for an annual subscription and pay upfront, you'll save money in the long run.

For example, an Amazon Prime subscription is £8.99 per month, which works out as £107.88 over the course of 12 months. But an annual subscription costs £95, which is almost £13 cheaper. 

Similarly, the standard ad-free plan for Disney+ costs £7.99 per month (£95.88 over 12 months), or £79.90 for an annual subscription, which is a saving of just under £16 and effectively means you are getting two months Disney+ access for free.

4. Start the cancellation process

Even if you don't actually want to cancel, starting the cancellation process can bag you a cheaper streaming fee. This trick doesn't work with Netflix, Amazon Prime or Disney+, to our knowledge, but it does with Sky and Now TV.

Don't take the first offer - the deals usually get better the further along the cancellation process you go. 

Goodto.com's Money Editor Sarah Handley saved £5 a month doing this with her Now TV subscription: "I'm a big movie fan and had the Now TV cinema package which was costing me £9.99 per month, that I felt was too expensive for how many films I was watching on the service. I signed into my account, and went through to cancel it. I started going through the process and before I got to the end I was offered a deal for six months at £4.99 a month - which I was much more prepared to pay."

5. Rotate streaming services instead of subscribing simultaneously

This works well if you have multiple film and TV streaming subscriptions on the go at once. The beauty of TV streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney + is that you're not locked into a contract so you can pause your account any time - and then subscribe again in a month or two.

You can only watch so much TV, after all, so to save money on Netflix and other TV streaming services, consider picking one streaming service per month to subscribe to. And remember that you can usually catch up on whatever you missed from the month you weren't subscribed.

However, do be wary of doing this with Netflix if you are on the Basic plan that used to cost £6.99 per month, and now costs £7.99. As this plan is no longer available to new customers, if you cancel your existing subscription, you will have to pay £10.99 per month if you rejoin and want an ad-free experience. 

6. Plan your viewing

We all love a good scroll through the TV streaming menu. But it pays to put an end to mindless scrolling and instead plan your TV viewing. You wouldn't usually turn up to the cinema and decide what to watch when you got there, so apply the same forward planning to your TV streaming to get more value from your subscription. By planning what you're going to watch in advance you can make the most of your streaming subscription and even work out where you can watch something for the cheapest price.

Streaming apps like JustWatch, ReelGood, and WatchPlayStream not only tell you which platform you can legally watch your favourite shows on but also where you should watch them to get the cheapest deal. 

7. Look out for streaming services as add-on bonuses to other purchases

If you're in the market for a new phone contract and want to save money on your streaming subscription, it's well worth shopping around for a mobile deal with a free streaming offer. Mobile phone providers often throw in streaming memberships to entice you to sign up for a new phone contract. EE and T Mobile offer free Netflix subscriptions. O2 is currently offering a free six month Disney+ subscription to customers when they upgrade. Alternatively, existing O2 customers can add Disney+ to their account, where the fee is included on your monthly phone bill, and save £2 per month on the subscription charge. That makes Disney+ £5.99 per month instead of £7.99 (which over the course of the year works out about £8 cheaper than the annual Disney+ fee).

But it's not just phone contracts that offer these perks, if you book a holiday to Disneyland Paris, you can also get Disney+ for free for a year. 

8. Check the freebies if you've bought an Apple product

If you have bought an iPhone, iPad or Apple watch, you will likely also get a free subscription to Apple TV. This could be anything from a free month, up to 12 months free. 

And with popular Apple-exclusive shows like Ted Lasso, See and Bad Sisters - it's worthwhile taking advantage of those free offers when you find them. 

Similarly, if you have bought a Samsung product, you could be eligible for up to 12 months free Disney+ so it's worthwhile seeing if your purchase qualifies. 

9. Don't forget that free streaming services still exist

Of course, you don't actually have to pay for your streaming service. While the likes of Netflix and Disney+ might have hugely popular shows, lots really good shows are quite often available to view for free elsewhere. Check out All 4, ITV Hub, My 5, and, of course, Freeview to see if what you want to watch can be found for free. 

10. Opt for a free trial - but don't forget to cancel it

A lot of streaming platforms offer a free trial before you sign up for a subscription, especially the newer ones, like Apple TV+, Paramount+ and Lionsgate+. But sadly, out of the big three (Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+), it's only Amazon Prime that still offers a free trial.

So if something's coming up that you know you're going to want to watch, it could be worth signing up for a free trial subscription to whichever platform is showing it. It's also a good way to try a platform out and see if you enjoy its programmes before you part with your cash.

The danger of this strategy is that free trials are cleverly designed so that you're likely to forget about them, which means you can end up wasting cash on something you don't need or use.

11. Use a cashback site and take advantage of vouchers

If you're not familiar with how cashback sites work, it can seem a bit shady at first but it's not. The premise is simple; if you purchase something online through a particular cashback website, you can earn some money back as a sort of commission. 

At Quidco, for example, you can claim £10 cashback when you use the site to pay for an annual subscription to Disney Plus.

You can also use your Tesco Clubcard vouchers to save on Disney+. You can exchange your Clubcard vouchers for twice their value when you spend with one of Tesco's Reward Partners, which means you only need £12 of Tesco vouchers to be able to get three months of Disney+ (worth £24). If you've got unused vouchers, this could be the perfect opportunity to keep your favourite streaming service for less.

12. Share a streaming account - legally

Most streaming service providers - including Amazon Prime and Netflix -  let you set up multiple user profiles on your account so that you can 'share' access with other family members in the same household rather than paying for multiple accounts. 

Generally, this is more affordable than paying for separate accounts so this is a good idea if you've got teens in the house. You could even persuade them to contribute to the Netflix bill.

Each streaming company has different rules for sharing accounts - Apple TV+ says it applies to students living outside of the family home, for example, whereas Amazon states that you must live in the same household to share an account. Best to check the small print before you share your login details.

As Netflix has launched a crackdown on password sharing, it has updated it's pricing structure to allow for a certain amount of extra accounts as part of your monthly fee. For example, if you pay for the Standard plan at £10.99 per month, you can add one extra member who doesn't live with you. If you have the Premium plan, which is £15.99 per month, you can add two extra members. (Netflix states that: "Extra members have their own account and password, but their membership is paid for by the person who invited them to share their Netflix account. Your plan determines how many extra member slots you can add.")

13. Work out value for money

You might find you have the perfect set up of streaming services right now, but it is worthwhile regularly checking in with which streaming services you tend to use the most. If you have one you only watch occasionally, or only watch one show, then it's definitely time to think about whether you really need to be paying for it. 

For example, if you pay £6.99 a month for a standard Netflix subscription, but only really watch Bridgerton, which across two seasons is 16 episodes, you're paying 44p per episode each month. 

But if you have a Disney+ subscription, which is £7.99 if you pay monthly, watch more shows, like Modern Family, The Simpsons and any of the Marvel or Star Wars collections, then the price you pay per episode will be much lower, and you'll be getting much better value for money.

If you're trying to decide which streaming service you want to keep, bear in mind if Pain Hustlers based on a true story, who is in Only Murders in the Building, and Dopesick vs Painkiller to help make your choice.

TV streaming services were the entertainment lifeline over the last two years of the coronavirus pandemic but with the cost of living going up, customers are now looking at where they can save money and wondering is Netflix raising its prices in the UK?

The digital streaming service, which airs popular shows like Tinder Swindler and Worst Roommate Ever, has some cracking shows coming up in 2022 including the return of Bridgerton with its second season.

Netflix prices were increased last year and now Netflix wants to "continue investing in best in class UK productions" but to do so it has to put up the cost of its subscriptions and looks to introduce Netflix ad commercials as we look at who will be affected...

Is Netflix raising its prices in the UK?

Netflix has announced it's raising its prices in the UK for new and existing subscribers in UK and Ireland. In the UK, the basic and standard plans will both increase by £1 a month to £6.99 and £10.99 respectively, while the premium tier will go up by £2 to £15.99.

Existing subscribers will be notified by email 30 days before the price rise comes into effect - each customer will depend on their individual billing cycle.

A Netflix said, "We have always been focused on providing our members both quality and clear value for their membership.

"Our updated prices reflect the investment we have made in our service and catalogue, and will allow us to continue making the series, documentaries and films our members love as well as investing in talent and the creative industry.

"We offer a range of plans so members can choose a price that works best for them."

How much does Netflix UK cost?

Netflix in the UK currently costs £5.99 for the basic plan, a standard plan costs £10.99, while a premium tier costs £13.99. But once the price rises come into effect, the subscriptions will go up by £1 and £2. with the basic and standard plans costing an extra £1 each, while the premium plan will go up by £2 costing £15.99.

Netflix recently suspended its services in Russia amid the conflict with Ukraine.

And in the UK some customers aren't happy with the increase.

One tweeted, "That’s 12.5% increase! They’re just testing their price power, we shouldn’t encourage it. I’m definitely cancel it"

Another user wrote, "Netflix made $30 billion in 2021. They don't need to be doing this."

A third unhappy customer tweeted, "@NetflixUK just thought you'd like to know that your latest price rise was the final straw for me. You've overpriced yourselves. The cost of living is rising at a phenomenal pace and TV isn't a necessity. I've cancelled. You were good but not that good :( #netflix #netflixuk"

But another user disagreed with the increase being "major" and added, "A price increase isn't great but its a bit much to call this "Major". It's €1."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle shocked fans by leaving social media last year, though now it seems the royal power couple could be about to relaunch their online profiles. 

• The Duke and Duchess of Sussex bid farewell to fans on social media last year as they stepped back as senior members of The Firm. 
• Now a recent clue has sparked speculation they could make a dramatic return to their platforms. 
• This royal news comes as the Queen is to miss out on a huge milestone for Lilibet as UK christening ‘not happening’.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have achieved a huge amount since they decided to “step back” as senior royals last year, launching multiple exciting ventures. Ranging from their Archewell Audio podcast with Spotify, to their multi-year Netflix deal and Harry’s upcoming memoir, the couple have now well and truly settled in their LA home and forged a life away from the royal spotlight. As part of their move away from their former roles as working royals, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said goodbye to followers on their official Sussex Royal Instagram account. 

Their caption explained that, ‘While you may not see us here, the work continues. Thank you to this community - for the support, the inspiration and the shared commitment to the good in the world. We look forward to reconnecting with you soon. You’ve been great!’ 

Now it’s been suggested that over a year later, Harry and Meghan, who have just been named two of the world’s most influential people, could be preparing to extend their influence and inspire fans once again on Instagram or other social media platforms. 

This comes after they were reportedly spotted being accompanied by a photographer and videographer during their recent trip to New York. Whilst on the East Coast, the Sussexes visited One World Trade Center and made an appearance at Global Citizen Live. 

As reported by Express.co.uk, royal commentator Roberta Fiorito discussed the rumours about a return to social media on the Royally Obsessed podcast. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3n_EfZLTDI

"I was reading so much about Meghan and Harry having a video camera and a photographer following them,” she explained to listeners. "We haven't seen any Archewell updates when they were in New York so we're going to see tonnes of footage from that.”

She added, “There's maybe a Netflix documentary in the works. There's speculation they are relaunching their social channels and this is all content for that."

Whether or not Prince Harry and Meghan are considering a return to social media, either for themselves as a couple or for their Archewell Foundation remains to be seen. Though royal fans would no doubt be delighted to see the couple make a triumphant comeback on Instagram or on other social platforms. 

Opening up about social media, Harry previously told Fast Company that he and Meghan hadn’t ruled out a possible return. Though he expressed his concerns regarding the negative impacts of social media and stressed the importance of them returning when it’s “right”. 

"We will revisit social media when it feels right for us-perhaps when we see more meaningful commitments to change or reform-but right now we've thrown much of our energy into learning about this space and how we can help," he explained. 

No Time To Die is one of the most anticipated films of the last few years and those unable to make it to the cinema want to know, when will the film be available to stream?

If you caught glimpses of the star-studded No Time to Die premiere, you’ll already know that it’s set to be a film that goes down in history. Not only was everyone from the show’s cast to royals like Kate Middleton in her stunning gold dress in attendance, but reviews after the event came in thick and fast - and it was 5-stars all round. 

Streaming is more popular than ever and especially during the pandemic, many films went straight onto the likes of Netflix, Amazon Prime and NOW. So what’s the plan with this new James Bond film?

When will No Time To Die be available to stream online in the UK?

At the moment, it’s not known when the film will be available to stream in the UK or anywhere else in the world. 

No Time To Die came out on September 30 in the UK. It's will also be available to watch in the US on October 8 as part of the film's worldwide release. 

It will certainly make its way to streaming services in the future though, much like all the other James Bond films. When it does become available for streaming, you’ll likely be able to rent the film from Amazon Prime first.

Amazon bought the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayar (MGM) Hollywood studio, which co-owns the copyright to the films and distributes them domestically, earlier this year. The purchase gave the company access to the whole James Bond franchise, including any upcoming releases. 

No Time To Die will also likely be available to rent or buy on Apple TV and in the future, streaming services like Netflix and NOW may also have access to the film.

The only streaming service that's unlikely to have access to No Time To Die is Disney+ as Disney have no rights to the franchise and they don't host Universal or MGM films on the platform. 

While this latest James Bond was never intended to go straight to streaming, it's certainly not the same story for other major releases. New Disney titles are just some of those that went straight to streaming services during the pandemic last year. Pixar’s Soul and the live-action remake of Mulan went onto Disney+ and bypassed cinemas, infuriating those in the cinema industry. However, Marvel's Eternals will not go straight to the streaming service as reports confirm the film will be in cinemas from early November. 

Similarly, Wonder Woman 1984 was available on HBO Max in the US on the same day as it had a limited cinema release. And last year, Warner Brothers announced that two of its biggest 2021 titles - Dune and The Matrix 4 - would have the same release pattern on same day availability in cinemas and streaming services.  

Where you can watch it now

No Time To Die is showing in most cinemas in the UK, including: 

• Cineworld 
• Vue Cinemas
• ODEON Cinemas
• Curzon Cinemas
• Everyman Cinemas
• Empire Cinemas

Smaller chains and independent picture houses will also likely have a license to feature the film. So, it’s best to check out your favourite local cinema for showtimes and tickets. 

BOOK TICKETS AT CINEWORLD

BUY TICKETS AT ODEON 

BOOK TICKETS AT VUE CINEMAS

No Time To Die stars Daniel Craig in his reprised role as James Bond. Ana de Armas (who plays Marilyn Monroe in Blonde) stars as Paloma, CIA agent and the "most badass" Bond girl. The film also features Remi Malek as Safin, French actress Léa Seydoux as Madeleine Swann, Naomie Harris as Miss Moneypenny and Lashana Lynch as Nomi.

When is No Time To Die coming out?

No Time To Die came out on September 30 2021 in the UK. 

In the US, the picture will come to cinemas on the later date of October 8 2021. 

The release of the film has been a long time coming for movie fans. Initially, the plan was to release the film in April 2020. But like many other projects, it was delayed due to the start of the coronavirus pandemic around the world. 

It was then scheduled to release in October last year but executives delayed No Time to Die again. 

At the time, Cineworld said that delays to big budget releases meant the cinema industry was currently “unviable”. While lead film markers wrote to the UK government and called for financial support for chains as they said “UK cinema stands on the edge of an abyss”. 

Executives pushed back No Time To Die a third time in January earlier this year. This was shortly following the announcement of another lockdown in the UK and many other countries around the world. 

The general worldwide release of the film in October last year comes on the sixth anniversary of the film’s predecessor, Spectre, which came out in October 2015.

No Time To Die trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIhNsAtPbPI

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) passed the film for release uncut. They found that the scenes of “moderate violence” and “infrequent strong language” were suitable for those over 12 years old. But don’t worry, there’s still all the explosive fight scenes and car chases that we’ve come to expect from 007.

Can't wait for when No Time To Die will be available to stream? The next hit drama from the BBC, Ridley Road, comes out in early October and you can catch up on all episodes of Vigil, filmed in Scotland, on BBC iPlayer right now. While Spider-Man 3: No Way Home won't be available to stream in the UK, it will be in cinemas from December.

These are just some of the exciting shows to watch before the latest instalment in the franchise.

Prince Charles is set to follow in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s footsteps and make his mark in the entertainment world after a huge career announcement. 

• The Prince of Wales has marked Climate Week NYC by revealing he’s collaborated with Amazon Prime Video on a brand new TV channel.
• The new channel aims to encourage both businesses and individuals to actively work towards a more sustainable future.
• This royal news comes as it was revealed that Kate Middleton inspired mum Carole to make this huge life change – and she won’t be stopping any time soon.

Prince Charles has made the exciting announcement that he has collaborated with Amazon Prime Video to launch a new TV channel dedicated to one of his greatest passions - conservation and sustainability. The Prince of Wales, who is first in line to the throne and a prominent senior member of The Firm, revealed the brilliant news to mark Climate Week NYC this year.

The new channel, RE:TV, aims to encourage individuals and businesses to be proactive when it comes to moving towards a more sustainable future. It is also set to highlight global projects that are working on initiatives to help change the way businesses are run.

As reported by Express.co.uk, Charles spoke out powerfully to reveal his hopes for this new venture, for which he will curate content. The future king declared, "I’ve spent a lot of my lifetime trying to engage people and businesses with the issues and solutions of the climate crisis." 

“RE:TV was therefore set up with the aim of capturing the will and imagination of humanity and champion the most inspiring solutions for sustainability from around the world.”

The Prince of Wales reportedly continued, “I hope that with this partnership with Prime Video we can bring these inspiring innovations and ideas to a wider audience and demonstrate together what is possible in the pursuit of a sustainable future.”

Prince Charles’ big move in the entertainment sphere comes just months after his son Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were revealed to have signed a major deal with Netflix.

This deal is perhaps one of the couple's most exciting career announcements since they stepped back as senior royals. Harry and Meghan’s multi-year contract with the streaming giant will reportedly see them produce an exciting range of insightful documentaries, films and programmes exclusively for Netflix. 

Whilst royal fans eagerly anticipate what Netflix projects are to come from the Sussexes, Prince Charles’ devotion to fighting climate change also seems to have been passed on to his children. 

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are known to share his passion for the environment. They were also recently given an award for only having two children in tribute to the way this could reduce their impact on our planet. 

Meanwhile, Charles’ eldest son, Prince William has recently announced this year’s finalists for the Earthshot Prize, an environmental award he launched in collaboration with Sir David Attenborough last year. Following this already exciting announcement, William has also confirmed a new 5-part documentary series featuring the celebrated conservationist.  

Prince Charles’ RE:TV Amazon Prime project is a similarly meaningful venture and royal fans will no doubt be eager to tune in and learn more about how we can help protect our planet. 

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could face ‘financial trouble’ if their very lucrative media deals don’t pay off according to a royal commentator.

• Since moving to their new LA home, Prince Harry and Meghan have taken on numerous multi-million dollar deals with Netflix and Spotify.
• But royal commentators believe they could face financial difficulties if the deals don’t pay off.
• This follows royal news that we could see even less of Prince George after England's defeat in the Euro 2020 final.

Prince Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior royals from 'the Firm' in 2020, and since their move to LA, have signed several lucrative media deals.

The couple has a multi-million dollar deal with Netflix and a podcast deal with Spotify. Most recently Meghan has even written her own children’s book, The Bench.

The royal couple has found success in America but one royal commentator, Daniela Elser says they could face ‘financial trouble’ if the deals don’t pay off.

In an article for news.com.au, she wrote that with the big deals with Netflix and Spotify, come pressures to deliver. She said, ‘The problem with this paradigm is that their entire money-making ability is pegged to their ability to generate good PR.”

She explains that “given their costs for security and their home in Montecito have been estimated at around $5.9 million, they would need their productions to smash hits.”

However, the couple, who recently welcomed their second child together, baby Lilibet, seem to have more and more exciting business opportunities up their sleeves.

It was recently announced that Meghan has signed another deal with Netflix for her very own animated series. Which Fans think is based on her life, due to the main character's name, Pearl.

Their bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey has also been nominated for an Emmy for ‘Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series Or Special.’

As their docuseries hits screens, viewers want to know how much did Harry and Meghan get from Netflix and what is Prince Harry's net worth?

It's been over two years since the Duke and Duchess of Sussex signed an exclusive production deal with Netflix - and now audiences across the globe are finally getting the chance to see the result of said deal with the anticipated arrival of docuseries Harry & Meghan. 

Alongside their podcast deal with Spotify and THAT sit-down interview with Oprah Winfrey, the new documentary is set to shed a light on the couple's experience after stepping back as senior royals in March 2020, plus their new non-royal life - following their move to LA in California (coincidentally the same state where Netflix was first founded back in 1997). The series is thought to be the first of many programmes produced for the global streaming giant, with children's programmes and documentaries both having been hinted at previously. But just how much are Harry and Meghan getting paid by Netflix to produce such content? Here's what we know.

How much did Harry and Meghan get from Netflix? 

How much Harry and Meghan received from Netflix was never publicly disclosed, however several publications have claimed that the figure is reportedly worth up to $150 million (£112 million).

The New York Times revealed that Harry and Meghan wanted to secure a deal in excess of £75 million. Before signing with Netflix, the royal pair held meetings with other global streaming services. This included Disney, Apple and NBCUniversal. Audience reach was also an important factor in the deal, and this was noted in their statement released at the time, commenting that Netflix’s "unprecedented reach will help us share impactful content that unlocks action".

Meghan and Prince Harry’s Netflix deal was announced on 2 September 2020. It was reported at the time that the late Queen was unaware of the Netflix deal secured by her grandson and his wife.

According to PR Guru Jonathan Shalit, the deal is one of a kind for obvious reasons. "It is a staggering deal. Never before has a Hollywood studio got hold of British royal family - this is historic," he told The Sun back in 2020. "Meghan and Harry will hire shadow producers to do the work but their names alone attached to Netflix are gold dust."

What is Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Netflix deal?

The royal couple signed a multi-year contract with the streaming giant which will pay them to produce an exciting range of documentaries, films and programmes exclusively for Netflix. 

It was initially reported by publications that the two would feature in a reality show - but this was immediately dismissed by representatives for the couple. A spokesperson for Meghan and Harry told The Independent in September 2020: "The Duke and Duchess are not taking part in any reality shows."

However, one of the first offerings to arise from their Netflix deal is new docuseries Harry & Meghan. The six-parter - released on December 8, 2022 - sees the couple tell their side of Megxit and the Royal Family fallout.

Confirming the news of their deal with Netflix at the time, the public were told the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newly formed production company will create “content that informs but also gives hope”.

“Our lives, both independent of each other and as a couple, have allowed us to understand the power of the human spirit: of courage, resilience, and the need for connection,” their statement about the Netflix deal read.

“As new parents, making inspirational family programming is also important to us, as is powerful storytelling through a truthful and relatable lens.”

Meghan is familiar with Hollywood having starred in the drama Suits prior to her wedding to Prince Harry. Her last project to date remains Elephant, where the former actress used her talents to voice the the Disney+ documentary.

Despite this, the Duchess does not seem to be planning a return to her acting roots anytime soon. A source told the Sunday Times that Meghan "has no plans to resume life on screen" at this time.

As for Prince Harry, in late 2019 he began work on a mental health series for Apple TV with Meghan’s close pal Oprah Winfrey. Called The Me You Can't See, the documentary series dropped in May 2021.

Netflix were clearly thrilled to have secured Harry and Meghan, sharing their excitement in a statement when the news was confirmed.

"We’re incredibly proud they have chosen Netflix as their creative home and are excited about telling stories with them that can help build resilience and increase understanding for audiences everywhere," said Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s co-chief executive and chief content officer.

What other shows will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have on Netflix and when will they be released?

Meghan and Prince Harry’s Netflix deal promises documentaries, docuseries, feature films and scripted shows produced by the couple. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex also revealed that "as new parents" they are inspired to create children’s programmes too.

Netflix revealed in September 2020, that The Duke and Duchess have a number of shows that are already in production.

“The couple already have several projects in development, including an innovative nature docuseries and an animated series that celebrates inspiring women,” a Netflix spokesperson said.

Netflix also indicated that the couple are keen to hire talent from diverse backgrounds to sit in key roles. Indeed for their docuseries, the duo hired two-time Academy Award–nominated and Emmy-winning director Liz Garbus.

We've yet to hear more about any upcoming series from the couple - but for now audiences have Volume 1 and Volume 2 of the Harry & Meghan docuseries to binge.

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