Tommy Fury and KSI meet this weekend on a huge night for influencer boxing in Manchester.

On a card that also features a heated showdown between Logan Paul and Dillon Danis in the co-main event, Fury will seek to silence his rival after months of verbal insults between the two and a week’s worth of chaos leading up to fight night.

Fury has already beaten one prominent influencer in Jake Paul this year, edging a split decision win in Saudi Arabia in February. This will be KSI’s first fight against a ‘legitimate’ professional boxer, with the former Love Island star determined to defend the family name.

Here, some of the biggest names in boxing past and present give their predictions ahead of fight night.

David Haye – former heavyweight champion

‘I think KSI beats him. Everybody just believes Tommy’s so much better.

‘The best name on his record is Jake Paul, and that was a close fight in which he got knocked down. So it’s not like he has this depth of experience.

‘I think everybody’s overrating Tommy and very much underrating KSI, and that gives KSI a massive advantage. I believe it’s gonna be a big shock.’

Verdict? KSI win

Anthony Joshua – two-time heavyweight champion

‘Tommy Fury vs. KSI, it’s a real 50/50 fight.

‘I would sway towards KSI, but then if I value experience, I think Tommy should pull it off because he’s coming from a fighting family, but KSI’s been banging people out though.

‘He beat Logan Paul who’s big and strong, went the rounds with Mayweather as well Logan did. It’s a real 50/50 fight, for this one I’m sitting on the fence.’

Verdict? On the fence

Tony Bellew – former cruiserweight champion

‘I think this will be the hardest fight of his career because JJ (KSI) has something about him where he will just let his hands go,’ said Bellew, as per the Express.

‘Jake Paul wouldn’t let his hands go but I think KSI will. So while I’m predicting a win for Tommy Fury, it’s not with any real certainty. It’s only a six-round fight, so I think they might both just let their hands go.’

Verdict? Fury win

Amir Khan – former world champion

‘He [Fury] comes from a boxing family, he’s a better fighter and he’s got the power and the skill-set to knock out these influencers.

‘I think it’s a miss-match because he’s the fighter that has been doing this since he was young. The influencers are going to get hurt one day when they’re taking big fights against proper boxers.’

Verdict? Fury win

Jake Paul – Fury’s last opponent

‘I think he’s going to get knocked out by Tommy in less than five rounds.

‘I mean [KSI] is doing these gimmick WWE fights up until now. Tommy is his first real test, but who knows, he might throw an elbow on Tommy, too.’

Verdict? Fury win

Ricky Hatton – former world champion

‘At the end of the day, Tommy is the professional boxer and KSI and Jake Paul are YouTubers. I certainly expect Tommy to win. I trained with Tommy for a fair bit and he’s very talented, very good. I watched a bit of footage of KSI and it’s the first time I had seen him. He’s a little bit all over the show and that could cause Tommy a few problems but I can’t honestly see anything other than a Tommy Fury win and coming through.

‘He’s got very good boxing skills and KSI might cause a headache over the first couple of rounds but ultimately when it comes to boxing skills Tommy has got the better ability.’

Verdict? Fury win

Derek Chisora – heavyweight contender

‘This fight, I see a knockout. I see the knockout coming for my friend JJ. He’s got more power in both hands than before.’

Verdict? KSI win

Frazer Clarke – heavyweight contender

‘I think KSI will struggle on Saturday night. But his best chance in this fight is the fact that he is still a novice, still very unorthodox in his style. If I was him or a member of his team, I would be telling him not to try and outbox this guy, keep doing the things you aren’t usually meant to do in a boxing ring, be unorthodox, hit him wherever and whenever you can.

‘Tommy is a far superior boxer but I am not sure if he is as fit as KSI because those boys train ridiculously hard.

‘His engine won’t be a problem, but maybe the skill level and experience will come into it. Tommy will need to put him in his place.’

Verdict? Fury win

Result? Fury 5-2 KSI

MORE : KSI trains as hard as anyone, his novice style can be the key to humiliating Tommy Fury on a night where boxing is strictly the entertainment business

MORE : Tommy Fury hits out at ‘classless’ KSI for spitting at his father John Fury

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You’re not getting any Big Brother tonight (Picture: Rex Shutterstock)

Big Brother’s been back on the airwaves less than a week and the show – which kicked off its first series in five years on ITV on October 8 – is already bringing the drama.

We’ve already seen Hallie taking the brave step of admitting to the others that she is trans, unexpected arguments over salmon, the first shopping task of the series – complete with huge wigs – and of course one housemate’s time coming to a premature end in the first eviction of the series.

Consider us hooked already. Except we have to wait a while for the next instalment from the house – as there’s no Big Brother on tonight.

Why is Big Brother not on on Saturdays?

Why is Big Brother not on tonight?

It’s unclear why Big Brother is not on tonight, but it follows on from the same format as when the show last aired on Channel 5.

Those tuning in to catch their latest glimpse of house action tonight will instead have to settle for the movie Bad Neighbours, which is being shown at 9pm instead.

While Big Brother previously aired every night of the week, the final series in 2018 was also absent from the schedules on Saturdays – suggesting it’s likely to be a scheduling issue more than anything else.

It also means there’s no Big Brother: Late and Live tonight either as AJ Odudu and Will Best have the night off.

Metro.co.uk has contacted ITV for comment.

The good news is that it’ll be back on Sunday at 9pm, with Late and Live airing at 10pm.

And of course don’t forget you can watch the livestream from the house into the small hours on ITVX.

When is Big Brother on?

Big Brother is airing at 9pm on ITV2 from Sundays to Fridays.

Generally episodes are around an hour long – although this may vary depending on what’s happening on the show (for example eviction night instalments run slightly longer at an hour and a quarter).

The series is due to run for around six weeks, so you can expect to see the final some time in November.

The series is already doing well, having attracted over 2m viewers to its launch night show – which also aired simultaneously on ITV1.

If you’ve missed any episodes so far you can catch up with them via ITVX.

MORE : Big Brother house ‘threatened with major security breach’

MORE : Big Brother housemates up for eviction revealed and fans are ‘gutted’

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Waiting for her mariner fiancé to return from his latest trip to sea, 25-year-old Audra stationed herself in room 501 of the Grand Galvez in Texas’s Galveston. 

Whenever her love was whisked away for work, the young woman would take up residence at the hotel and climb onto one of the hotel’s turrets, where she would look out to sea, hoping beyond hope that he would return to her.

However, this time, he didn’t. After a storm hit the area, Audra learned that his ship had tragically sunk. 

Bereft after hearing the news, the heartbroken woman took her own life in the hotel – before her fiancé could return, having miraculously escaped the same watery fate as his shipmates. 

Almost 80 years later, 501 has become Grand Galvez’s most requested room, with guests keen to experience the paranormal activity this suite is now famed for. 

It has been kept in original 1900s style, featuring pink and green adornments, compared to the breezy blue and white decor of the other rooms. 

Not only that, but guests who want to try and make contact with Audra are left with a Ouija board. 

However, they might not be needing it as Audra is famous for making her presence known, whether the hotel’s inhabitants want her to or not. 

Guests have reported having their phones randomly play music through their room’s Bluetooth speaker, which inexplicably shows up as ‘connected to AUDRA’.

Others – including the hotel’s senior catering sales manager Angela Westhoff – have felt a ‘presence’ that has physically forced them out of rooms, including the downstairs loos opposite the bar.

But this could have been any one of the hotel’s ghosts – who some have even accidentally snapped pictures of when taking bathroom selfies. 

Before my trip around the hotel, I was told that it’s common for ‘do not disturb’ signs to rattle, and this is something I witnessed firsthand.

Sceptical, I checked for nearby air vents and monitored for the slightest breeze that could explain the activity, but I was left stumped.  

In all honesty, I don’t believe in spectres, but even I couldn’t deny being a bit spooked by it. Every time Angela told us another story about the hotel’s paranormal activity, I felt the hairs on the back of my neck rise up and a desire to leave the haunted rooms for the safety of their glorious bar.

Now, that could just be me getting wrapped up in the storytelling of the whole thing, or maybe ghosts are real – you decide!

Either way, I found myself apologising to Audra for laughing when I first saw the Ouija board. 

Perhaps in a bid to appease Audra and the other spirits, the hotel is – for the second year running – throwing a wedding party for our fallen heroine. The Ghost Bride Ball, which takes place on 28 October, encourages attendees to dress up in period costumes and ‘celebrate the undying love of the most treasured bride of the Grand Galvez’. 

You may think a luxury hotel such as the Galvez would lean away from ghost stories, instead focusing on their spa packages, high tea, and glamorous interiors – but this is no ordinary Marriott. 

It is one that fully embraces the spooky. In fact, the whole island seems to. 

Galveston, located 50 miles outside Houston, is utterly beautiful. It offers sandy beaches with warm waters, candy floss-coloured Victorian houses with gothic touches, tasty grub and a fascinating history. 

But it’s also an island touched by tragedy. In 2008, it was hit by Hurricane Ike, which killed 17, left Galveston declared temporarily uninhabitable and had a predicted economic impact of $22.16billion. 

Even more deadly, the 1900 storm claimed the lives of 8,000 people – and it is this hurricane that has given rise to most of the island’s haunting stories. 

Back then, 6702 Seawall Boulevard was the address of Saint Mary’s Orphanage, which housed around 100 people. In the face of the hurricane, the nuns tied themselves and the children together, killing them all. 

Today, the site is home to a massive Walmart. But not just any Walmart. A massive haunted Walmart. 

Each morning when opening the store, staffers have come to expect one thing: For the toy section to be in disarray, looking as if kids have invaded the shop overnight and played to their hearts’ content.

It is the children’s’ bikes that are most often found out of place.

What else to do in Galveston

• Have a dip! Galveston has a beautiful sandy beach with warm waters on the Gulf of Mexico coastline. September/October is the perfect time to visit with it being in the high 20s/low 30s and off-season for tourists.

• While you’re there, explore the Pleasure Pier’s rides and attractions, and follow it with a trip to the beachside shop Murdoch’s, an institution on the island (and where you can pick up a pet crab in a funky shell).
• Eat the best sandwich you’ll ever try at Maceo’s. They’re known mainly for their spices, and their colourful family history, but I will remember them best for their muffaletta. I have dreamt about that sarnie.

• Cross the road for a cocktail at DTO. I had the Chicha Chicha – frozen rum, purple corn, pineapple, spices, lime – delish.
• Take a self-guided tour of Galveston’s tree art. After Hurricane Ike destroyed many of the island’s trees, instead of chopping them down, residents paid for them to be turned into beautiful sculptures

• Get your history fix at the Bryan Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of artefacts and art relating to Texas and the American West.

While some shoppers and staff have attested that they’ve heard boys’ and girls’ voices and cries, others have witnessed electric toys start making noise by themselves. 

It’s these kinds of stories that have earned Galveston the title of one of the USA’s most haunted cities. And it’s a title the island embraces. 

Any avid ghost-hunters, paranormal fans, or sceptics can find plenty of tours on offer to whet their appetite.

From top haunted sites to themed tours, you can explore old cemeteries, the former red light district, Hotel Galvez itself and bars. 

And if that’s not enough, just an hour’s drive away you can find even more spooky tours in Houston, with The Heritage Society’s Halloween Tour of the city’s oldest houses being my first choice, followed by a drink in the dark and moody La Carafe, Houston’s oldest commercial building. 

While you might not get to meet Audra during a trip to Galveston, there are plenty more ghosts just waiting for a chance to spook you.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk. 

Share your views in the comments below.

MORE : Princess Diana ‘will appear as a ghost’ in final season of The Crown

MORE : ‘We need to start taking ghost stories seriously – and stop being so disrespectful’

MORE : Strictly Come Dancing stars ‘hysterical’ over ghostly happenings at BBC studio

It’s been 14 years since I last saw Charles in person.

We are having lunch in a busy cafe on a hot March day in Kigali, Rwanda. With a decade to catch up on, even though we aren’t related by blood, we still refer to each other as brothers, my family as his family.

Then Charles’ voice saddens – which it often does when he talks about my dad in the past tense. He asks me: “Daddy called me his ‘third child’ in our emails. Do you think that will help with the visa application process if I want to come work in England?” 

There’s a silence as I understand, for perhaps the first time, the reality of my dad’s complicated legacy. The reality of the impact caused by his sponsorship of Charles 15 years ago.

I knew as we sat there, that I hadn’t prepared myself well enough. I hadn’t let myself consider how far that impact could have gone, and that I didn’t have the right answer to give. 

When discussing my dad’s white saviour complex with people, many often get defensive for me, as if acknowledging his well-intentioned but problematic attitudes hurts me and I need their support and reassurance. 

Other times, it feels like a type of white guilt, keen to defend someone they can relate to with a ‘back then how could he have known?’

My dad – a secondary school teacher who grew up in Leeds and brought up a devout Christian – was a product of his society and his religion. He was also a kind man, who cared about fighting injustice. All those things led him to set up partnerships between his school and schools in Romania, India and Rwanda, running fundraising campaigns to support them for many years. 

The Rwanda partnership was closest to his heart, as he had initially tried to move to Cameroon in the 1960s for missionary work but was refused on health grounds. In Rwanda, he set up a sponsorship programme for people from our school in England to fund the tuition of students in Gisenyi, a city in the northwest of Rwanda.

These fundraising and child sponsorship schemes that support children in Africa are still common today, and though they are well-intentioned, many who take part in them are rarely aware of what damage they can potentially cause. How they reinforce ideas of racial roles – whiteness understood as wealth, knowledge and a reliable source of support, whereas blackness is seen as the opposite, of poverty and ignorance.

I, like many from our school who took part in this partnership, and like my dad, thought the partnership was doing some good. Today looking back, I know all we did was reinforce those roles.

My dad died from cancer in May 2010, a few months after his last trip to Rwanda. Before he passed away, he asked our family to continue funding the university fees for Charles, who he had been sponsoring and was in regular contact with for many years.

I was 18, and despite once meeting Charles during a school trip, our relationship mostly consisted of a few letter exchanges, encouraged by my dad.  

We paid the fees until Charles graduated, but then, as the years passed and we processed our grief, my dad’s work in Rwanda became a distant footnote in our memory of him, just another chapter. Our communication with Charles dwindled until our Facebook Messenger chat became a long list of unanswered questions, while his profile picture remained, for a decade after we had met, a photo of him and me. 

Last year, after receiving a wedding invite from another student from the Gisenyi sponsorship programme, I decided that I should visit. I had processed my dad’s death, but had begun to ask myself questions about the Rwanda chapter in his life and felt a responsibility to see what the impact of it was.

It had been well over a year since I’d last responded to Charles, so it was with some shame that I contacted him to see if we could meet up during my visit. I reached out to the former school in Gisenyi too, and, with a mix of curiosity and trepidation, booked a flight. 

I met Charles on my second day in Kigali. His parents had been killed during the Rwandan Genocide when he was six, and he’d spent most of his childhood being moved from foster home to foster home, to relatives who didn’t want to support him and his siblings. 

He said the first time he had a sense of family was when my dad began writing him emails and supporting his studies. Those emails, which he showed me after I asked to see, were often signed off ton Papa Anglais (your English daddy) and were filled with religious affection. 

In Charles’ house, there are no photos of his parents because he has none. Instead, he has photos of us, my dad, my mum, my sister and me. He said: “I felt lonely for so many years without a family. Then with Daddy I didn’t feel loneliness anymore.”

After my dad died, Charles shut himself out of school for a week. He had lost both parents he said, then gained one, then lost him again.

In Gisenyi, as I was proudly shown around the school by a former teacher and close friend of my dad’s, teachers and staff approached me and spoke of him in glowing terms. I was used to this after his death from people in the UK, but here was an added layer, something which reflected how his role in this place had been unusual and unexpected. 

There was gratitude as I was shown books sent by my school, from the coach who praised the courts that we had fundraised to build. They spoke of the sadness they felt after his death, how they had lost a dear friend. I felt his memory being carried along through the people, the buildings and books, and that he was more alive there than he had felt to me for 12 years.

I also felt uneasy, because it seemed that within the gratitude lay some resentment. Frustrations about how the programme my dad set up, with its funding which had been central to their development – suddenly stopped after his death. ‘One day people just stopped answering emails,’ I was told.

Projects were left unfinished, others over the years fell into unmaintained disrepair. Some students’ sponsorships continued while others faded away. Classrooms shared by those whose lives would be forever altered by English money, and others forced to process the loss of expectation. The details and dynamics of human lives that sponsors rarely consider. Africa as a project, not a people. 

The impact that the partnership had on the Gisenyi school was transformative, often good, but problematic because it was short-term, unsustainable and reinforced ideas that white Europeans could come in and solve many issues.

During the one time our school funded a group of the Gisenyi students to visit England, six ran away before boarding the flight home making national news.

15 years later, in a muted tone filled with disappointment for the community, a couple of Gisenyi’s staff recollected the incident to me. 

There is still a hurt and sadness in Gisenyi about a partnership that ended so abruptly. Whereas in the collective memory of our English school, it was all too easy to move on.

My dad had so much compassion. He cared and wanted to help, and through a very simplistic and convenient lens, he did. Students got access to university and many school buildings and facilities were repaired or rebuilt. He ensured that the visiting English students were educated about Rwandan culture (something which, to his credit, was uncommon in the voluntourism of the 2000s), and he was committed to supporting Charles indefinitely. People are grateful, they’ve told me just how grateful.

But he also forced change without a clear understanding of its long-term impact. My dad’s influence changed the trajectory of people’s lives, normalising a belief that we knew what was best for them. His ambitions were heavily influenced by his religion, and just as he ended his childhood wanting to be a missionary on the continent, it was well known that when he planned to retire he would move to Rwanda and live out his life there. 

He extended our family to Charles, which promised affection we would always struggle to maintain without him. He made money central to that relationship and passed that responsibility onto me. And I failed, perhaps right until we met in Kigali 15 years after my family came into his life, to see the relationship as anything more than a transaction.

As I sat down on the beach of Lake Kivu (which connects Gisenyi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo) exactly where I stood with my dad 14 years before, I opened the pot which contained his last remaining ashes that I had, and emptied it over the sand.

I thought about how much he had loved this country, about his wish to retire here, and as I watched the grey and yellow start to blend together in the wind, I thought, yes, this is what he would’ve wanted. To be at one with Rwanda.

I wish he had felt differently. I wish he had lived longer to have realised how problematic that love was, the hurt that was caused by his actions. I wish for him that he could’ve had the opportunity to be educated, to find a healthier way to help.

But in the end, some people will always have that automatic urge to justify his actions, to talk about that time and place, about good intentions. I feel it too, the need to justify my own actions of letting my relationship with Charles fade for a decade, the need to not pass too harsh a judgement on someone who isn’t here to defend themselves, who could’ve changed if he was still alive.

The present doesn’t pause to contextualise those who are stuck in the past forever, but the impact of their actions and ours today are real and they are happening now. Acknowledging that uncomfortable truth and learning from it is crucial if we are to help ourselves become better anti-racists.

I have decided to respect the relationship with Charles, not by continuing my dad’s legacy, but committing to communicate, to love and respect a connection with a brother 4,000 miles away. I am not sure if this is entirely unproblematic, but it feels necessary and I am glad to do it. We both lost someone we saw as a father after all, and, though neither of us had a choice in the matter, we share this.

My dad was a caring man who wanted to help people. I loved him. He was also influenced by religiously motivated white saviourism. His actions both positively and negatively impacted individuals. Two things can be true, and it’s possible that a simple and entirely right answer might not exist.

And while his ashes are scattered around the world now, most of him will always reside in Rwanda, where his presence will be felt for a long time to come for better or for worse, by those who knew him, and many who never will.

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Share your views in the comments below

MORE : I found out about the Home Office’s Rwanda plan the day before I crossed the English Channel by boat

MORE : Ministers ‘could send migrants to Ascension Island’ if Rwanda policy fails

Two friends of a singer-songwriter who was killed in the Hamas attack have paid tribute to a ‘pure heart’ who played a motherly role.

Mor Gabay, 30, died after the terrorists infiltrated the Zikim beach area where she and friends from a bar she worked at had gathered for a party.  

The group of around 20 young people had camped out overnight on the sands, around three kilometres north of the Gaza Strip on the Israeli coast.

Mor left around 10 minutes before the rest of the party heard explosions in the first moments of the Hamas-led mass incursion early on Saturday.  

Ariel Ein-Gal and another of her friends, Ahiad Ben-Yitzchak, wrote a tribute remembering her kindness and vowing to avenge her death.  

They said: ‘Mor was a kind person. She was everyone’s mother; from making food in our pub for every customer and worker to food for her students and neighbours after finishing nine-hour shifts.

‘She was an artist, she wrote songs and poems and dreamt of publishing a poetry book. She had about 10 dogs in her house, each one was loved by her equally and she still had so much love inside her for everyone else.

‘She was our dearest friend, you could tell her anything and she always listened and replied with kindness, not judgment.’ 

Mor had spent the night with fellow workers from the Mileva pub, which is located in her home city of Be’er Sheva, around a 76km drive south-east of Zikim beach. The cook is thought to have left the end-of-season and Jewish New Year party early to return to her parents’ home in the city.  

Her friends found her empty, bullet-riddled car in the middle of a nearby road and were later told that a policeman who was first on scene had removed her body. Her funeral was held on Tuesday.

Ariel, 26 and Ahiad, 29, who are also from Be’er Sheva, managed to escape in a group who broke out of the resort area in three cars while under heavy fire from Hamas gunmen. The militants, who are thought to have landed on the beach despite its sea defences designed to prevent such incursions, had apparently murdered policemen and used their patrol cars for the ambush.

The friends also vowed to avenge Mor’s death.

They said: ‘Our friend was a cancer survivor who was optimistic beyond belief. Mori, we’re missing you dearly.

‘We can’t believe we’re talking about you in past tense.

‘As the Lord is our witness, we promise we will avenge your untimely death.

‘Love you always.’ 

Ariel and Ahiad told this week how they were woken by explosions before taking shelter between two containers on the beach, where they saw gunmen in three rubber dinghies approaching the coast. 

They fled as bullets raked the sand and hid in the perimeter of a nearby military base before making a break in an advance party travelling in three vehicles as the sound of gun and rocket fire grew closer.

Ahiad suffered a gunshot wound to his left leg as the terrorists opened fire before the two cars and an SUV reached Israeli military and medical personnel further inland.  

Ahiad added: ‘Mor had a pure heart and I will never forget the first thing she told me when I met her on a shift: “Wow man you have such beautiful eyes, my name is Mor, how are you?”

‘She had the nicest smile and always had the nicest things to say to people.

‘She made you feel special and wanted.’ 

Israeli singer Ziv Na’aman has paid tribute to Mor, whose Instagram page shows pictures of her singing, by covering a song she wrote.

The song includes the words: ‘I didn’t choose the way, I didn’t know the roads, yet, I always knew, if we fall we will stand again.’

The Israeli military said yesterday that more than 1,300 people have been killed in the country, with more than 3,000 people wounded. The Gaza Ministry of Health said that more than 1,500 people have been killed in Jerusalem’s retaliatory strikes, with more than 6,600 others wounded.

Israel has imposed a blockade of food, fuel and electricity into the Palestinian territory ahead of an expected ground offensive. 

MORE : Bar workers tell of dramatic escape after Hamas gunmen attack party on Israeli beach

Do you have a story you would like to share? Contact josh.layton@metro.co.uk

A reader and recent father of twins reveals how the debate over the price of Spider-Man 2 has been the catalyst for him to sell his console.

I’ve seen a lot of arguments back and forth about the price of Spider-Man 2 and whether it would be better value for money if it was longer or if it’s fine to pay $70/£70 for a game that only lasts 15 hours. Well, for me that’s kind of missing the point. Having recently become a dad to twins I suddenly find myself so short of money the thought of spending that much on a video game isn’t something I can even consider.

Naturally, I haven’t got much time either, but I should’ve been able to fit in a ‘short’ 15+ hour campaign, as I have been able to find the odd hour or two of quiet to indulge in those games I do already have. But I can’t justify the cost, not with all my responsibilities at the moment.

I realise that I could try and get a physical copy, beat it, and sell it but the whole argument over whether the game is worth the money or not has made realise that video games are just too expensive nowadays and this is probably the time to stop spending what little remaining personal cash I have on them.

You reach a limit like this, and you realise something has to change, that the things you used to spend time and money on when you hand no responsibilities are just not sensible anymore. I’m not going to accuse Sony or anyone else of being greedy or unfair – I understand why game prices are going up – but for me it’s reached a limit where I just have to say ‘no’.

It’s not just the games though. Spider-Man 2 is really just the straw that broke the camel’s back. It costs what it does but then you’ve got all the other games I’d be interested in this year, like Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Alan Wake 2. Then on top of that talk of the Switch 2 and PS5 Pro…

Everything is just becoming too much; expense piled upon expense. I realise I don’t have to get any of these things but I think it’s best for me to decide not to, to make a clean break, before I’m tempted to carry on and my lack of willpower keeps finding excuses to get ‘just one more game.’

I will hopefully come back to gaming in a few years’ time and while I intend to sell my newer consoles I’ll keep the older ones to play some of my favourite retro games. I have been thinking, though, about what might have convinced me to carry on.

If Sony had a true equivalent to Game Pass that might have made a difference. I’ve never been a fan of Xbox games but if I could’ve played Spider-Man 2 for no extra cost, day one, that would have been mighty tempting, even if subscriptions are getting more expensive all the time.

But really, the price is only part of it. The other half is just wanting to be more responsible. I don’t think it’s right to be constantly thinking about where I can steal some time away from my kids, to play a video game.

I’ll need some ‘me time’, I’m sure, but not when it costs the price of a weekly shop to enjoy it. Everything is getting more expensive at the moment, but when that includes an unnecessary luxury like a video game I think you’ve got to take stock and consider your priorities. Thanks for listening.

By reader CollinsBlister

The reader’s features do not necessarily represent the views of GameCentral or Metro.

You can submit your own 500 to 600-word reader feature at any time, which if used will be published in the next appropriate weekend slot. Just contact us at gamecentral@metro.co.uk or use our Submit Stuff page and you won’t need to send an email.

MORE : Hours of Spider-Man and Super Mario Bros. Wonder footage leak online

MORE : The original PS5 Spider-Man was not a great game but perhaps Spider-Man 2 will be

MORE : All the unlockable Spider-Man 2 suits have already leaked online

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Today, a Solar Eclipse and a New Moon in Libra prompt introspection over the give and take in your life.

Are you giving your all but receiving nothing return? Are there areas where you’ve taken others for granted? A change may be needed if so.

Such realisations may be particularly acute for Aries and Gemini when it comes to relationships, while Cancer is considering switching up their home and Virgo is prioritising decisions around money.

Ahead, you’ll find all the star signs’ horoscopes for today: Saturday, October 14, 2023.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

With a turbo-charged New Moon or Solar Eclipse in your sector of relating, it’s time to take a partnership in a new direction. If it’s a romantic tie, you’ll be ready to commence a project, take on a challenge or move in a direction that will strengthen your bond by enlivening your attention and interest.

You’ll will also be ready to forge friendships that further your interests, Aries.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

Want to improve your lifestyle and become happier and more productive? Today’s Solar Eclipse could entice you to think about it. If previous efforts have been a disappointment, there’s something about today’s line-up that might encourage you to try again.

You may be inspired by a friend or find that teaming up with someone who shares your goals can make it easier to shift gears.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Want to enhance your creativity or take a romance to the next level? Today’s sparkling Eclipse acts like a powerful New Moon, encouraging you to take a chance. If you feel a strong urge to explore certain possibilities, then go ahead.

Falling for someone? Don’t be in too much of a rush. Wait a week or so, and find out more about them before you declare your feelings, Gemini.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

Ripe for domestic change? Today’s Solar Eclipse in Libra, could encourage the stirrings of something big. The coming weeks and months can see your plans shaping up, especially if they involve a move, starting a family or altering the dynamic in some other way.

The essence of this lunation is a new beginning, which might also coincide with a homely makeover, if you’re ready.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Leo

July 24 to August 23

Keen to launch a new idea or project? You may be more aware of the obstacles than the potential for success. Today’s powerful Solar Eclipse encourages you to have a go anyway. You’ll be more inclined to reach out to others for advice.

If you’ve wanted to start an Internet business, are ready to market your latest business or eager to learn new skills, it’s time to go for it, Leo!

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

The turbo-charged New Moon in your money zone, can be a call to take control of your finances and make some significant changes. If you’ve let things slip, this Eclipse could be a wake-up call, encouraging you to overhaul spending and create a healthy budget.

Thinking of starting a business? Go for it now, and you could see positive growth over coming months, Virgo.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Libra

September 24 to October 23

Today’s Solar Eclipse in your sign is an important turning point, so don’t allow yourself to feel you are being stymied by other people’s expectations. You may have to make your move regardless of what others think.

While not easy, you’ll feel so much better for getting started. The right actions and decisions and the determination to step out on faith, will lead to success.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

Are you trying to come to terms with the pros and cons of a situation? If so, today brings renewed hope. A potent Eclipse in your psychological sector encourages you to view this issue from a different perspective, and one that could bring about a healing.

For now, let your thinking subside and relax into a peaceful state, and your deeper wisdom will lead the way ahead.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

Is your attitude standing in the way of a team project or community initiative? While you may be keen to get on board, you might be looking for problems rather than benefits.

Today’s lunation can coincide with a need for a decision which you could hesitate to make. If you don’t try, you won’t know! With many opportunities and experiences to be gained, why not go for it?

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

Capricorn

December 22 to January 21

The opportunity to do something that makes a difference to your career and reputation, may be shaken by complex emotions that could stop you in your tracks. And yet if you want to move further up the ladder, this will be your chance to do so.

If you can detach from such feelings, things might move in the direction of your dreams. Let them get to you, and they may not.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Aquarius

January 22 to February 19

Today’s powerful lunar phase can put you in something of a quandary. And yet not doing anything might not be an option either.

With a Solar Eclipse encouraging you to take a step into the unknown, you’ll likely think of many reasons why it’s wiser to stay as you are. It certainly would prove less threatening. But what if this is the gateway to something bigger and better?

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

Ready for a breakthrough? Today’s lively Eclipse in your sector of transformation, inspires you to make a move, even if friends and associates might not agree. If deep down, you feel this is right for you, then follow through, Pisces.

It’s true that certain people may wonder if you’re making the right decision, but this is your life and not theirs, and you know what’s best for you.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

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MORE : What does the week have in store? Your tarot horoscope reading for October 9 to October 15

MORE : What do the key transits in astrology mean? Planetary movements from square to opposition explained

MORE : The worst matched star signs in love – and how to overcome the cosmic obstacles

Kevin Owens has been unveiled as the newest member of the WWE SmackDown roster.

After brand new general manager Nick Aldis was introduced to fans by Triple H himself, the Prizefighter was unveiled on Friday night’s episode as the replacement trade following Jey Uso’s move to Raw.

As revealed at Payback last month, Cody Rhodes had orchestrated a way for Jey to switch to the red brand after he walked out on WWE weeks earlier.

Although fans knew a wrestler would be moving the other way from Raw to SmackDown, a few weeks had passed without any answers before SmackDown last night.

Aldis told the fans: ‘I’m gonna cut right to the chase. As many of you know about a month ago, Cody Rhodes was instrumental in a deal which took Jey Uso to Monday Night Raw, and in exchange a Raw superstar must come to SmackDown.

‘So as my first official act, with Triple H’s blessing, I’d like to introduce SmackDown’s newest superstar right now.’

Despite Dominik Mysterio’s best efforts to halt the announcement, KO’s music hit and the former world champion stormed to the ring and laid out the Judgment Day star with a huge Stunner.

Owens’ move to the blue brand throws up some fascinating complications, particularly as he’s spent a large part of this year in a rekindled team with Sami Zayn.

His trade suggests that partnership is over with the beloved fan favourite remaining on Raw, which in itself could create more tension with Cody Rhodes.

As fans know, the storyline reason for the trade was the American Nightmare getting Jey Uso on Raw, but their recent Undisputed WWE Tag Team Title victory means they will both continue to appear on both programmes anyway.

KO in particular might not take too kindly to being moved away from his tag team partner Sami all for a trade that has almost been negated anyway thanks to the rules around the titles recently held by the lifelong friends.

WWE SmackDown airs Friday nights at 1am on TNT Sports 1.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : WWE producer Nick Aldis had to think fast after wrestler ‘projectile vomited all over the ring’

MORE : NJPW star Will Ospreay ‘numb to death wishes’ before he turned major mental health corner

A reader regrets pre-ordering Modern Warfare 3 and suggests that Call Of Duty is currently the worst it’s been since the Xbox 360 days.

It’s Wednesday as I type this and I’m fully expecting Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard to be confirmed on Friday. So, all you people in the future as I type this, are probably already sick of hearing about it. But don’t worry, I’m not really here to talk about it. Although I will say that paying $69 billion for the makers of Call Of Duty is just about the worst bargain in corporate history, because Call Of Duty sucks. Or at least this year’s does.

I used to love Call Of Duty, I think most everyone did back in the Xbox 360 days. It’s had its bad games, but it’s kept its quality up surprisingly well given the yearly sequels, although I think it started to lose its mojo towards the end of the last generation. Maybe because that’s when they started to concentrate more on the free battle royales, or maybe the idea had just been done to death – but I think Black Ops 3 was the last one that I was properly into.

The first Modern Warfare 1 reboot was pretty good but the second not so much, I thought. You want to see the end of the story though, so against my better judgement I pre-ordered the third and… well, I guess they saw me coming.

A lot has been talked about whether Modern Warfare 3 is just DLC they repackaged and sold as a full game, but that really doesn’t matter – if it’s good, it’s good. Super Mario Galaxy 2 and Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom both started out as DLC and they’re two of the best games ever made, so clearly it’s no guarantee that the game will disappoint.

I realise the position with Modern Warfare 3 is different, but if it was originally just a new story campaign then it must be pretty substantial, they just need to bolt on new multiplayer and Zombies modes and, let’s be honest, how often do they really change between sequels?

Well, it turns out the answer is quite a bit because Modern Warfare 3’s multiplayer is a lot different. The problem is all the changes are for the worse. It is pretty obvious that the multiplayer maps being for the original Modern Warfare 2 means they were originally meant to be DLC for the last game but, again, that doesn’t really matter. These are some classic maps and revamping them for modern times is a good idea.

The problem is they haven’t been revamped at all. They’ve had a light remaster and that’s it, which means they’re still filled with camping sites and then you’ve got the terrible spawn points of the modern games on top of that. The spawn points are completely random, and it makes it impossible to come up with any kind of strategy or tactic whether you’re playing on your own or as team.

Domination is basically unplayable and that’s before you get into the lack of recoil on guns, the terrible visibility and colour saturation, and a TTK (time to kill) so slow it feels like you’re fighting with a potato gun.

I do kind of like the slower movement, although I acknowledge opinion is divided on that subject. I have not spoken to any regular player that has not complained about the spawn points though, agreeing that they all but ruin the game.

I shouldn’t have pre-ordered it, I realise that now, but I will definitely be thinking twice next time. I shouldn’t imagine that’s what Microsoft wants to hear after spending all that money but it’s true. Call Of Duty has only been getting by these last few years and now it’s at its lowest point, just as it becomes Xbox property.

Maybe they’ve got some big plan for bringing it back to its former glory but even if they have that’s going to take, what? Five years? By that point I think they’re going to be having serious second thoughts about this whole deal…

By Taylor Moon

The reader’s features do not necessarily represent the views of GameCentral or Metro.

You can submit your own 500 to 600-word reader feature at any time, which if used will be published in the next appropriate weekend slot. Just contact us at gamecentral@metro.co.uk or use our Submit Stuff page and you won’t need to send an email.

MORE : 18 minutes of Payday 3 gameplay leaks and it looks exactly like Payday 2

MORE : Payday 3 drops first teaser trailer for the New Year after silent 2022

MORE : Payday 3 will focus on original crew – set in New York

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WWE boss Triple H has unveiled British wrestling legend Nick Aldis at the new General Manager of SmackDown.

The company’s chief content officer made a rare appearance for Friday night’s ‘season premiere’ of the blue brand and shook things up by introducing a brand new authority figure.

It’s been a long time since either Raw or SmackDown had an on-screen GM in place, with backstage producer Adam Pearce ruling over both shows in recent years as a ‘WWE official’.

That’s all changed now though with the former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion making his long awaited debut with the sports entertainment giants, while Pearce is the new GM of Monday Night Raw.

Following the big announcement, he tweeted: ‘The opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you @TripleH @WWE Onwards and upwards for the blue brand! #SmackDown’

Known as the National Treasure in the National Wrestling Alliance and beyond, fans will be hoping this marks the beginning of Aldis working towards an in-ring role for the company.

Earlier this year, he reached an agreement to work as a backstage producer, which involves helping wrestlers put together their matches to make sure they fit with the plan.

Now, he’s appeared as an on-screen character for the first time and looks set to make an impact in a totally new environment.

His fellow countryman and current Raw commentator Wade Barrett previously admitted he would love to see Aldis in WWE, and he had high hopes for this career once he arrived.

He exclusively told Metro.co.uk: ‘He’s a fantastic talker, he’s got a great look, he’s a really good representative for this industry in general, and I love his classic throwback in-ring style.

‘It reminds me a bit of Harley Race, kind of the pompous Englishman element adds to it as well. I’d love to see Nick involved.’

WWE SmackDown airs Friday nights at 1am on TNT Sports 1.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : NJPW star Will Ospreay ‘numb to death wishes’ before he turned major mental health corner

MORE : WWE producer Nick Aldis had to think fast after wrestler ‘projectile vomited all over the ring’

A reader is unimpressed by the newly released Payday 3 and thinks its problems are emblematic of recent video game sequels.

Sequels can be a blast. Remember Halo 2? Portal 2? Red Dead Redemption 2? Hell, Half-Life 2 and Silent Hill 2? Shrek 2?! All certified classics in their own right, which introduced extra depth, fresh gameplay mechanics, and world building to their franchises and the community behind them, giving people more of what they wanted in an innovative and creative manner.

So what the hell is happening recently?

A notable example I’d like to focus on is Payday 3. A well established franchise that has had an excellent sequel, Payday 2, be its driving force for 10 years – until recently when Payday 3 led to its predecessor being retired and gave it the well-earned rest it deserved.

Its price point: attractive. The visuals: much better. Game mechanics: fresh and interesting. It looked to be shaping up well, improving on the previous game and giving it a nice lick of paint in a new engine. And yet even with considerable community and financial support it has still turned out to be a complete mess.

The majority of the characters are gone, thanks to an awkward plot point that states that the gang has been broken up due to a police incident – delivered in what looks to be a Redfall style concept art PowerPoint. This is in part understandable, due to having to monetise the game in the long term (plus the problem of the licensed characters), but the production value drop off in comparison to Payday 2’s neat live action backgrounds, that made the game feel alive.

No quick play results, in a rough matchmaking experience, and no proper single-player means an overreliance on online (as evidenced by the launch week fiasco). Less gameplay mechanics mean less depth and a small selection of maps further limit its replayability. It’s quite the rabbit hole when you start looking past the fun gunplay, which in itself feels like a shadow of its former self, with the lack of weapon modifications and akimbo variants.

Sequels currently feel like they are simply a way to earn money and keep major companies afloat. Phil Spencer’s remarks on the gaming industry simply say what everyone else is thinking currently: sequels are rehashes done for the sake of it being a sequel to keep an IP’s name in the game, which is the exact opposite of what these games need to be.

Looking at Modern Warfare 3 and a previous Reader’s Feature on how it’s essentially a grift, alongside the new Assassin’s Creed Mirage… both come from top triple-A studios that are continuously resting on their flagship titles. There’s certainly nothing wrong with sequels in general but done in this vein it makes enjoying these games difficult, where no new innovation occurs besides fresh ways to monetise the gaming experience.

Sequels like Payday 3 are an interesting case. Yes, it’s a poor game, but if anything Starbreeze had their hand forced. They have filed for bankruptcy in the past and this game is a way to support them getting back into the game (no pun intended). But it still feels as though we are being cheated; the mismanagement and pressure to deliver means another sequel has been released simply to push an IP for the sake of it.

By reader V

The reader’s features do not necessarily represent the views of GameCentral or Metro.

You can submit your own 500 to 600-word reader feature at any time, which if used will be published in the next appropriate weekend slot. Just contact us at gamecentral@metro.co.uk or use our Submit Stuff page and you won’t need to send an email.

MORE : 18 minutes of Payday 3 gameplay leaks and it looks exactly like Payday 2

MORE : Payday 3 drops first teaser trailer for the New Year after silent 2022

MORE : Payday 3 will focus on original crew – set in New York

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Readers discuss their usual tactics for beating video games and how they decide when to give up and when to multitask.

The subject for this week’s Hot Topic was suggested by reader Fennel, who asked what you count as beating a game and if it just means having completed the story or everything 100%.

Everyone had a slightly different approach and while most agreed that getting to the credits counted as beating a game, others liked to go further, especially for trophies and achievements.

Impossible Mission
As someone who has amassed thousands of games over the years, there’s no way I can complete all of them. There are some games I play that I feel I have experienced all they have to offer within the 15 hour mark and just give up on (Far Cry 5 and Dying Light springs to mind) but it’s rare that I stick to one game to completion and play nothing else.

The last I did this with was Elden Ring last year, which I played for a solid month to 100% Steam achievement completion. I’ve played other games to completion since but not in-between playing others.

I’ve been more wary in the past couple of years with my purchases too and seeing if I actually would find the time to finish them. I really want to play Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom but Breath Of The Wild took me over 120 hours to finish, I don’t have it in me just yet.
Cold Waste

Stick to the plan
I must admit I’m quite a tenacious wee fellow, so if I start a game I tend to finish it. Due to this, I tend to only buy games that I know I’ll likely be able to finish, and plan which games I start based on that. Thinking of the games I’ve bought myself in recent years I think I’ve finished them all but it does tend to mean I won’t start really long games after finishing a long game recently. It does provide nice palette cleaners between the longer games though, interspersing games like Inscryption and Inside, between longer games like Xenoblade Chronicles and Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom.

I have tried things like Game Pass but find I’ll start so many games and not even try and finish them, as you’re not quite invested in them, having not consciously decided to buy them. It felt more like window shopping, downloading it, having a wee gander to see what it’s all about and then on to the next fairly interesting game, all the while not seeing much of any of them.

For that reason, I’ve decided the more considered approach of reading previews and reviews and buying and investing my money and time in a game I have chosen is my favoured way of buying and playing video games.
Paul Conry

Staying power
I try and beat every game I play.

This is in stark contrast to my gaming youth, where I would rarely finish anything. I’d say that during a prolific year of my 30s I’m sure I beat more games than the whole of my childhood, teens, and twenties combined.

As a general rule, though, if I’m really not enjoying a potentially long game I’ll stop. A recent example of this is Immortals Fenyx Rising, which I started to find a bit repetitive about five hours in and dropped.

Earlier this year I played through Dark Void, an Uncharted clone that couldn’t be more generic, because it was a short experience, and I don’t think I can accurately form an opinion about a game unless I’ve seen the credits.

I’d advise that everyone tries to see a game through if they’re 70-80% there.

It’ll leave a more lasting impression and make any potential sequel more appealing.
ANON

E-mail your comments to: gamecentral@metro.co.uk

Post credits scene
I try to at least finish and by that I mean get to the credits screen, every game I own. Even online shooters like Apex Legends have a natural end for me. After all the achievements were awarded and a handful of wins I found it had reached its end for me.

I don’t see the point of buying a game and not finishing it. I’ve not got endless cash, so I still played like I did 20 years ago. I might have a pile to get through, but I will get to each one.

I can only remember one game I never finished as it was so difficult, I gave up on it. No, it wasn’t a Souls game.

As I’ve said before, you can come and go on a game, as long as it’s not online only and the servers shut. I’ve never paid full price either, as I tend to get used or from a key seller. I’m still on Read Dead Redemption 2 several years after release but am only maybe a dozen missions in.

On the other end I’ve played through the Batman: Arkham games several times, including the Riddler trophies.

If I’m stuck, I’ll go on YouTube to find a cheese or easy strategy.

Going by the achievements I’m on the lower percentage of people doing this now.

I finished the new Turtles game and I think it was under 20% of people had the achievement. This is a two-hour game and people can’t play through it? I don’t know.

Anyway. Have a good weekend all.
Bobwallett

Sunk cost fallacy
When I was younger and only got a handful of new games a year, I’d (try) to play everything through to completion. These days I’m quite happy to abandon a game I’m not enjoying.

Two recent examples would be Red Dead Redemption 2 and Deathloop. I gave them both three to four hours but found them very uninteresting so moved on to something else. There are too many other games I want to try to bother continuing. Since I only buy games once they’re a cheaper, it’s no big loss if I only play them for a short while.
drlowdon

Progress update
I try to complete the main story of every game I play. But the story and the gameplay needs to be compelling! These are the games I am currently working on:

Final Fantasy 16: good story/boring gameplay
Progress = stalled

Aliens: Dark Descent: OK story/fun gameplay
Progress = stalled
(Need to be in the mood to play this one)

Call Of Duty multiplayer: no story/addictive gameplay
Progress = need to unlock the next gun on battle pass

Baldur’s Gate 3: great story/complicated gameplay
Progress = wife is blaming pregnancy brain and it’s too much for her, so can no longer play our co-op game (right at the end of Act 1)

Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty: good story/competent gameplay
Progress = still playing and will be the game I complete first

It’s all well and good having loads of extra things to do and unlock but they need to be interesting and worthwhile or change the way you can play the game.

I think the internet guides and YouTube videos have also taken some of the magic out of games, as it’s so easy to figure things out once you get stumped now.

Looking forward to Hades 2. That should keep me occupied.
TommyFatFingers

Selling point
A somewhat topical Hot Topic this is. I only pre-ordered Spider-Man 2 and bought Assassin’s Creed Mirage because they had been trimmed down.

DC Comics have always been my favourite. Green Lantern and Hellblazer blow anything Stan Lee ever plagiarised clean out of the water. Yeah, sue me.

So I’m not all that invested in any of the Marvel comics or superheroes. I got about halfway through Spider-Man on PlayStation 4 before the map just got way too full and I couldn’t be bothered trying to get any further.

Generally, I do try to get my money’s worth. Oblivion, Skyrim, Bloodborne and Elden Ring held no secrets from me by the time I was done with them. The same goes for Zelda: A Link To The Past and all the 3D era Mario games.

The difference between Red Dead Redemption and the sequel makes the point for me. I savoured every moment of the first Red Dead Redemption, to this day one of my most memorable gaming experiences in 35 years. The sequel? Not so much.

Bloat for the sake of busy work does not a good game make.
Mitchell

Multitasking progress
I do try to complete every game I buy but not necessarily as soon as I’ve bought them, usually because I’m in the middle of trying to complete another in my backlog!

In the N64/Game Boy Advance/GameCube days I would try to complete each game on each difficulty with each character (if they had different ones) so for example, Mario Kart 64/Super Circuit/Double Dash got some serious playthrough.

As of late September/early October, I’m trying to complete Cruisin’ Blast. I have already got gold on the easy and normal difficulty races but I’m grinding to level up each vehicle to level 5. Races and the Cups are short, so it’s not too bad.

Simultaneously, I’m trying to get all my Pokémon to level 100 in Pokemon Sword. I’m nearly-ish there but I won’t bother with Let’s Go, Eevee! or Violet. Namely because it is so much easier/quicker to level them up in Sword than the other games.

If I am having difficulty with a certain game, I will look online for help but if I still can’t get past a certain part I’ll call it a day and move onto the next on my shelf. That finished game is then sold or traded.

These days, 100%ing a game isn’t important to me anymore like it used to.
LeighDappa

This week’s Hot Topic
The subject for this weekend’s Inbox was suggested by reader Fennel, who asks whether you try to beat every game you play?

There’s been a lot of debate recently, over whether video games are getting too long or bloated, but do you always try to beat them, regardless of their length? What do you count as beating the game and are you happy to move on once you’ve completed the story or do you try and 100% it as well?

How often have you given up when playing a game and what caused you to do so? What’s the shortest amount of time you played a game before giving up?

E-mail your comments to: gamecentral@metro.co.uk

The small print
New Inbox updates appear every weekday morning, with special Hot Topic Inboxes at the weekend. Readers’ letters are used on merit and may be edited for length and content.

You can also submit your own 500 to 600-word Reader’s Feature at any time via email or our Submit Stuff page, which if used will be shown in the next available weekend slot.

You can also leave your comments below and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter.

MORE : Games Inbox: The danger of Nintendo being bought out, The Legend Of Zelda love, and GTA 6 doubts

MORE : Games Inbox: Baldur’s Gate 3 as the best game of 2023, The Crew Motorfest love, and Meta Quest 3 vs. PSVR2

MORE : Games Inbox: PS5 Slim improvements, the next Zelda, and Silent Hill 2 Director’s Cut

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Neymar admits he felt ‘nervous’ after he was hit in the head by a box of popcorn following Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Venezuela on Thursday evening.

The incident occurred after the game had ended as a box of popcorn was thrown by a supporter and hit Brazil’s talisman on the side of the head as he made his way towards the tunnel.

Neymar angrily confronted the group of fans before he was led down the tunnel by his Brazil teammates.

‘I didn’t even see what it was, but when it hit me, I got nervous,’ Neymar told TNT Sports Brazil.

‘I condemn this kind of attitude, it shouldn’t be done, it’s bad for football, for human beings.

‘A person who does this kind of thing is not an educated person, he will not be able to educate a child in the best possible way. If he complains so much he should have trained better and been on the pitch himself instead of me.

‘Obviously we were on the pitch giving our best, and many times the result doesn’t come, it’s not what the fans expect.

‘I don’t come here on holiday, much less to take a stroll, I came to do what I love the most, which is to play football and represent my country.’

Brazil now face a tough match against Uruguay in their next World Cup qualifier on Tuesday evening.

Neymar, meanwhile, is representing Brazil having completed his £86 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in the summer.

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

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Survivor will challenge 18 people to compete in some of the toughest physical and psychological challenges to become victorious.

As well as testing their brains and strength, they’ll also have to outwit each other and dabble in betrayal in order to become the lone survivor and walk away with £100,000.

The contestants are flown out from the UK to a tropical location, where they are split into two tribes. Eventually, they will merge after people are are voted out of their tribes at the tribal council.

They will find themselves going head-to-head, as there can only be one winner!

The format originally came to the UK in 2001 and ran for two series, and now, over two decades later it is being rebooted for our viewing pleasure.

Sitting on the sidelines will be Joel Dommett, who will be hosting the BBC series, which was filmed in the Dominican Republic.

Let’s meet the Survivor contestants…

Ashleigh

Age: 34

From: London

Occupation: Brand strategist

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I love every opportunity to live life to the fullest and to challenge and push myself. Whether it’s in work e.g. starting my own business, in fitness with my boxing or in life and taking on skydiving, I have always wanted to test my limits.

‘I suffer from imposter syndrome and struggle to believe in myself, so this is why I push myself, to try and find my limits. What better test to understand what I’m really capable of than the ultimate challenge – Survivor!’

How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?

‘I have coeliac disease and I actually had a gluten flare-up three weeks before the show started which massively impacted my training. I usually run three times a week and weight train or box twice a week, but I had to cut right back during my coeliac recovery so I was not at my peak fitness when I started.

‘I did try and eat lots to make sure I was ready for the calorie deficit though – thank god for gluten-free pizza!’

Christopher

Age: 36

From: Bridgend

Occupation: Singer/songwriter

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I wanted to be a contestant on Survivor because I wanted to take myself out of my comfort zone and face my fears. I wanted to undertake the hardest challenges, on land, in the air or in the sea. I want to prove to myself that I have got what it takes, that I can achieve anything.

‘The idea of having nothing but the clothes on my back seemed a million miles away from what I do in real life. Having all luxuries taken away and food restricted whilst having to undertake the toughest game show on earth just excited me. I thought it’s the best way to push myself, to learn how to survive and do challenges as I’m extremely competitive.

‘I am at the stage in my life where I am more confident and determined to do something which I feel I can do well with the determination and competitive spirit to outwit, outplay, and outlast.’

How competitive are you?

‘I am extremely competitive, I will just keep going even when I feel like I can’t give anymore. I will do whatever it takes to outlast the biggest strongest contender. I am one not to be messed with, I play to win!’

Doug

Age: 32

From: Isle of Mull

Occupation: Flood risk consultant

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘When I was younger I vividly remember watching the original UK Survivor back in 2002. As a family we loved the show, even going as far as re-enacting some of the original challenges.

‘When I saw that it was returning to TV in the UK I wasted no time in putting my application in. Next thing I know – I’m on a desert island building a shelter from bamboo! I came on Survivor to make my family back home on Mull proud, and have the adventure of a lifetime.’

Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?

‘My strategy coming into the game comprised of 2 key elements; firstly establish myself as an indispensable member of the tribe during the early phase of the game by performing well at Challenges and working hard around the camp.

‘Then secondly was to find myself a “shield” player, or failing that, to create one. Someone ideally who would take a real leadership role within the tribe and more importantly, is regarded as a bigger target than myself. I’ll sit right behind them as long as I can!’

Hannah

Age: 30 

From: London 

Occupation: Semi-professional footballer 

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor? 

‘Survivor really became my go-to TV show to watch during lockdown. I got totally hooked, binge-watching season after season and the more I watched, the more I thought: “I’d absolutely love to be on that show!”‘

How competitive are you? 

‘I’m incredibly competitive and football has been a huge part of fuelling that fire. Competing at a semi-pro level has given me a taste for competition and the drive to succeed. I brought that same spirit to Survivor, ready to battle it out in every challenge.’

Jess

Age: 38

From: London

Occupation: Fitting model

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘It’s the ultimate challenge of a lifetime and I fancied doing something wild as I approach 40. I also thought the 100K might come in handy!’

How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?

‘Everything about it was my literal worst nightmare, I was so out of my comfort zone but I did it.’

Laurence

Age: 29

From: London, born in Vienna, and raised in Costa Rica

Occupation: Entrepreneur/Cambridge Student – MPhil in Artificial Intelligence Ethics

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘Coming across Survivor and getting chosen to be one of the contestants was an enormous coincidence as I run a health-tech start-up selling anti-hangover capsules with the same name as the show!

‘The show hit the spot as I felt I’d become too comfortable in life and I’ve come to depend on all sorts of unnecessary creature comforts. It was time to shake things up a bit and prove to myself that I could live on bare necessities, in order to appreciate the luxuries of life.

‘I wanted to see whether my character would remain the same when put to the test, or whether I would crack under pressure like most other fellow soft millennials.

‘I also celebrate absurdity – and instead of doing the rational thing and working in some dull accountancy firm towards buying an overpriced house and a boring retirement, I would much rather do something absurd like this. I crave new experiences.

‘As George Mallory said, on why he wanted to climb Everest: “Because it is there.” And finally, I thought I could at least make a big enough fool of myself on national television to amuse myself for the next few years.’

How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part? 

‘I bought a flint and proceeded to practice setting fire to the kitchen, much to my family’s horror. I asked a friend to join me at a Thai restaurant famous for serving bugs and forced myself to eat every creepy crawly in sight. I went all-out on sports – convincing a terrifying Austrian Schwarzenegger-lookalike to be my coach. He nailed it by brutalising me daily with cruel and unusual forms of exercise. On top of this, I did a fair amount of rock climbing, allowed my father to thrash me thrice at squash, a lot of long-distance running, and some strange balancing acts in the garden.

‘I had not watched a single full episode of Survivor, so I set about absorbing Survivor highlights and strategy reels on YouTube, and reading forums and Quora articles chock-full of advice, with questionable results. I did, however, absorb various books on survival skills, and very geographically specific books on flora and fauna.’

Lee

Age: 28

From: Belfast (originally Limerick)

Occupation: Professional boxer

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I thought it was a great opportunity to test myself and let the world see me for who I really am. Survivor shows people at their most vulnerable selves and I was excited for the Irish and British public to see me as my true authentic self.’

Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?

‘My plan was to just to be myself and perform well in challenges, I felt like that’s where my strengths would lie. In terms of a proper strategy, I came in blind as I haven’t seen the show before – I’m an idiot!’

Leilani

Age: 45

From: Hertford

Occupation: Barista/yoga studio cleaner

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘Tongue-in-cheek humour, general immaturity and ignorant bliss mixed with lots of love, cuddles and unity.’

What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?

‘I learnt just how resilient and adaptable I am. My mental strength is super strong to be able to bear the pain of leaving my child at home during filming. I left Survivor a much more powerful woman.’

Matthew

Age: 21

From: Cumbria

Occupation: Hospitality

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I wanted to be a contestant on Survivor because I knew this was the ultimate challenge! An amazing chance to really get stuck in and see what I’m made of. I turned 21 a few months ago and I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my summer, I’m so thankful for the opportunity.

‘I really wanted to push myself to the limits and I genuinely mean that – this is a dream. I was looking forward to playing the game of Survivor because there’s so much to think about, it tests you physically and mentally and I was ready for both challenges!’

How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?

‘I just embraced the dirt and the conditions and I wasn’t scared to get my hands dirty, I just wanted to get stuck in! I realised that in everyday life I take all my home comforts for granted but the fact I have a comfy bed to sleep on and food in the fridge is such a privilege. But on the beach not having these home comforts brought everyone in the tribe together because all we had is each other and we were all living in the moment.

‘One of the home comforts I missed most was definitely a cup of tea… I drink so much of it at home, it was a big shock to my system!’

Nathan

Age: 35

From: Manchester (originally London)

Occupation: Fitness instructor/operations manager

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I very much believe in the concept of Kaizen – a Japanese term for continuous improvement – and I try to apply this concept to every part of my life. When I reflect on when I’ve grown the most, it has always been on the back of significantly challenging times, adversity, or hardship. So, when the opportunity to be a part of one of the most challenging experiences someone can face, I needed no convincing.’

How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part? 

‘Mentally, it was a case of daily positive affirmations, reminding myself that if I’m able to get through the things I have got through so far in life, that I will be able to get through anything the game would be able to throw at me.

‘On the physical side, prior to confirmation of my involvement in the show, I already had a fairly intensive training programme, however, I introduced more cardio and calisthenic exercises into my training and undertook swimming lessons.’

Pegleg

Age: 54

From: St Agnes

Occupation: Surf school owner

What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?

‘Life experience as a 54yr old, a Gen X attitude for just getting on with it and not whining and moaning about the hardship of it all.’

Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?

‘To try and be Mr middle-of-the-road; I didn’t want to be seen as a threat but also didn’t want to be a weak link in the chain who wasn’t worth keeping around. As an older one-legged guy I had to prove I could hold my own.’

Rachel

Age: 40

From: Whitstable

Occupation: Insurance claims handler

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I have always been an adventurous, strong, outdoorsy, sporty person who loves a challenge and my mum knew I had wanted to take part in a show like this for years so when she saw an advert for contestants online she tagged me in it. My motivation was that I wanted my children to know that not having a dad around does not mean that one parent isn’t enough and to show them that anything can be achieved if you put your mind to it.’

What did you learn from being on the show?

‘That I am capable of anything and my gut instinct is always right. Also, I need to stop putting everyone else’s needs before my own! I have met some amazing people and cannot wait to try new adventures with them.’

Rach

Age: 23

From: Glasgow

Occupation: Personal trainer

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I had actually never heard of Survivor until the start of this year when I watched the Australian series and immediately knew that this would be something that I would enjoy.

‘My boyfriend and I binge-watched every single series and I fell in love with the show. I love challenges and adrenaline rushes so taking part in Survivor was a perfect match for me.’

What did you learn from being on the show?

‘I learned from the show that I really am capable of anything. If someone had told me at the start of the year: ‘you will live on a beach in the Caribbean this summer’, I would have laughed in their face.

‘Being so young and giving up everything in my life to take part in Survivor was huge for me and I was so grateful to have been given the opportunity. It also encouraged me to visit my family a lot more than what I did, I think being away for such a long time made me realise how much I missed them.’

Ren

Age: 28

From: London

Occupation: Network Data Scientist

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘Survivor has been my all-time favourite show since I found it when I was 14, obsessed is an understatement. It combines so many things I love into this intense and awesome package where you get to do stuff you don’t get to regularly as an adult.

‘I also just love the mental and social aspects of the game – it’s not about playing the game you want to play, it’s about playing the game the jury wants to see you play.’

What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?

‘I was really excited for the Survivor classic – an epic obstacle course where you have to use each other to get through different elements, ending in a solid equalizer puzzle, which I’d reluctantly volunteered to do, and then dominate, duh.’

Richard

Age: 36

From: Dalkeith

Occupation: Pensions manager/RAF reservist

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I am always looking for a new challenge and this gave me the opportunity to challenge myself physically and mentally.’

How did you cope with the hunger?

‘It was a struggle early on but then you get used to it.’

Sabrina

Age: 45

From: Stroud

Occupation: Ultramarathon runner/charity founder/author

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘It hit me at the right time! If you were told on a cold UK winter’s night about a show that was highly likely to be filmed on a tropical island, involved physical and mental challenges, and meant you couldn’t be contacted for the whole time you were there – wouldn’t you be interested?’

How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part? 

‘In the months before I ran two multi-stage 300K off-road trail ultramarathons. One of them being in the remote Scottish highlands. I camped out. I ate rations. I gladly put myself in a deep dark hole physically and mentally.’

Shai

Age: 33

From: London

Occupation: Finance risk manager

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘Being a super fan! I remember watching the show as an 11 year old in Sri Lanka where I grew up till the age of 17 and have watched most previous seasons across the 23 year period. When the opportunity arose, I jumped at it! Who wouldn’t want to be stranded on a random island with nothing but basic rations against a bunch of random strangers, competing in the best game ever!’

Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?

My strategy before going into the game was to lay low at the beginning, not drawing any attention to myself and then try and seize control in the mid game. Which it turns out is much easier said than done!

Tinuke

Age: 30

From: London

Occupation: Professional roller skater/adventurer

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

‘I have always loved the show alongside all other survival shows since I was a kid. I was so excited when I saw it was coming to the UK. I want to go on the show for my late parents and to prove to myself that I am so much stronger than I thought I was.

‘This is a complete game-changer for me, I am ready to change my life and fill it with adventure and challenge and this is the first stepping stone to get me there. I am ready to leave behind the troubles and grief of my past and prove that anyone can turn around any dark experience.

‘You always have more in the tank than you think you do, and I am ready to show that! I want to be a massive inspiration for anyone who has also experienced deep loss and sadness.’

How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?

‘To prepare I have watched every season of Survivor and I read FBI interrogation persuasion techniques and body language books to give me the upper-hand.

‘I also lived in the woods for four days learning all the basic bushcraft and survival skills which was wild. From my real life I already had a lot of general resilience and life skills to get me through the show.’

Survivor UK will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Autumn.

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As Brian Quavar was wheeled into the operating theatre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ hospital in London, he looked up at the surgeon and joked, ‘how much sleep have you had?’

Being the first patient of the day, he was about to have life-saving surgery after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

Although it was a shock diagnosis, it was one that Brian, now 60, had taken in his stride, despite the worrying lack of information surrounding the illness in Black men. 

‘One in four Black men, as opposed to one in eight in the general population, are more at risk,’ the 60-year-old tube driver explains. ‘Unfortunately, there hasn’t been enough research on Black bodies and prostate cancer even though it affects us more as a community,  so there is no understanding as to why.’ 

Like many men, Brian didn’t have any clear symptoms of the disease. He wasn’t in pain, or  felt any strange lumps – the only thing that gave any sort of indication was his need to pee more than usual. 

‘I had no real symptoms before my diagnosis,’ Brian, from East London, tells Metro. ‘I would say the only symptom would be getting up in the middle of the night to urinate regularly. I didn’t even think of it as a issue because I drink lots of liquid normally.’

However,  after frequently getting up for the toilet during the night, he was urged by his partner to visit his GP.

A PSA test (a blood test to help detect prostate cancer) revealed higher levels than normal and Brian was called in for further tests. Following a biopsy, MRI and PET scan, he was diagnosed with localised prostate cancer – which meant it hadn’t spread.

Brian, who grew up in Trinidad, recalls: ‘I had my partner with me when we got the news, so I had that support, and I had done some research. I knew it wasn’t likely to  have been fatal, or detrimental to my wellbeing – so I didn’t panic.’

‘I didn’t think: “Oh my god, this is the end of the world!”. I listened to diagnosis and I was told about the treatment options.’

Brian opted to have his prostate removed, rather than undergo radiation. However the operation, known as a radical robotic prostatectomy, came with risks, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Both of these were dependent on the success of the surgery and how much ‘nerve spare’ (where doctors avoid cutting nerves near your prostate) surgeons could save.

Thankfully, the operation was a success, leaving Brian with 75% nerve spare. He was then sent home with a care plan, medical erection pump, and a catheter – which was removed after two weeks. 

On the whole, he says, his recovery went well. However, one thing that Brian feels has helped him enormously over the past two years has been a prostate cancer support group specifically for Black men, called Brother to Brother, Man to Man.

The group was set up by nurses at Guy’s and St Thomas’ hospital with the aim of being a safe space for Black men to talk about prostate cancer and, ultimately, help squash stigmas in the community.

‘Staff found that not many Black men attended the regular prostate cancer group and felt that Black men would be more responsive to being in a group of people similar to themselves. And I agree.

‘It’s important for us as Black men to feel comfortable in a space where we can talk freely amongst ourselves, and not to be seen as in the minority.

‘We meet once a month and we’re able to share personal experiences and hear from experts in the field. It’s very supportive.’

Brian adds that groups like this are especially crucial, as prostate cancer is still stigmatised within the Black community.

‘It’s taboo for a lot of reasons. There is still a struggle in terms of getting Black men to ask for PSA tests,’ he says. ‘A lot of them still think the only test is the rectal examination – which isn’t the case – and for some men this is taboo. They don’t want anybody putting a finger up their bum.

‘The other issue is the fact that prostate cancer has to do with your sexual function – however, until it’s in the advanced stages, it doesn’t really affect you in that way. So some people think “what they don’t know can’t hurt them”, and they prefer to not know about any kind of treatment that would affect their sexual function.

‘However, as a Black man, it’s also important to me that more Black people speak out to remove the stigma around being tested or being treated for prostate cancer, as it still remains a taboo for many, across Black communities.’

What’s more, with the statistics highlighting Black men are more at risk of prostate cancer, Brian feels passionately about firstly encouraging Black men to get a PSA test and secondly, urging GPs not to turn them away when they request one.

He also stresses this is particularly important as often prostate cancer can be practically symptom-less – like it was for him.

Meanwhile, there are other hurdles in the way, which could be more easily remedied, such changing how coverage of prostate cancer tends to focus on white men.

‘When people share their stories, it’s usually white men,’ Brian points out. ‘However, even if they’re speaking about white men, it should be reiterated, somewhere in the narrative, that Black men are more at risk of prostate cancer.

‘This narrative is still if you’re a man over the age of 50, get a PSA test. But it should be stressed this is for the general population. However, if you’re a Black man, and you’re over the age of 45, you should be getting a test – that’s the guidelines from Prostate Cancer UK.

‘That distinction should always be reiterated wherever possible when cancer is spoken about.’

Since Brian’s surgery in 2021, his PSA levels are undetectable and he attends regular check ups. But following his experience, he’s more passionate than ever about getting people talking and squashing stigmas.

I would like to reiterate the message to Black men, that there is no shame in having any kind of illness.

‘It’s a taboo for a lot of people in the Black community where you don’t talk about your illness whether it’s prostate cancer, or mental illness or any other kind of cancer, or any other sort of this medical diagnosis – it’s not openly spoken about. So there needs to be more openness within the community.’

Brian is also involved in Macmillan’s recent Find The Words campaign, which encourages men to open up about their experience of cancer and reach out for support.

If you’ve received a diagnosis or are going through treatment, you can get support via Macmillan on 0808 808 00 00.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

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Coronation Street spoiler videos for next week confirm another truly explosive one for the residents of the cobbles, with aftermath aplenty.

The ITV soap is hot off its incredible Super Soap Week, which saw Stephen Reid’s reign of terror come to an end after he was killed by Peter Barlow in shocking scenes.

The drama doesn’t stop there, however, as the events of this week send shockwaves through Weatherfield, with big scenes to come, including a police investigation into the killer’s death – with a shocking arrest made.

Fancy a first look at what’s coming up?

We’ve got three little clips to tide you over until our next visit to the cobbles, previewing the above events. 

The fallout of this week’s developments, as ever, continue into the next, and with so many questions left unanswered, here are some brand new video spoilers.

Monday October 16

Sally is worried sick about Tim’s disappearance but she soon has other things on her mind when DS Swain begins to question her about Stephen’s death, wondering if Peter in fact set out to kill the murderer.

Horrified, Sally berates the detective for such a line of questioning, urging her to instead focus her attention on locating Tim.

Tuesday October 17

Daisy is full of admiration for Ryan in the wake of his talk at the STC. She stops by the flat to tell him that he was so brave for showing his scars on his livestream.

Before Ryan has an opportunity to respond, Daisy hugs him, with the two subsequently sharing a passionate kiss.

Wednesday October 18

Michael is called to a meeting with Sarah and tries to act like things are normal. Sarah, however, reluctantly tells him that they can’t see a way forward with him after his actions saw Stephen steal cash from the factory.

Michael knows that this means he’s sacked and he’s left reeling as a result, attempting to process the news.

Coronation Street airs these scenes w/c Monday October 16 at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.

If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage.

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The Eras Tour film is finally in cinemas with Taylor Swift’s fans flocking to see the three hour long masterpiece – but Swifties aren’t easy to please.

Concert films rarely get this much attention but Taylor’s fans wouldn’t let their idol down with booked out screenings and over 600 pre-sale tickets sold at Westfield London’s Vue. 

The excitement is palpable as fans arrive, buying limited edition popcorn buckets and cups, dressed in their favourite Taylor merchandise.

‘There’s a lot of hype around it,’ the Customer Assistant, rocking a gold sequinned blazer, told Metro.co.uk. 

‘It’s very close to Barbie with the excitement and everyone’s dressing up. I
don’t think any other movie [has had people] dressed up like this.’

Costumes and friendship bracelets are ditched in favour of tour tops and merchandise but fans are still beaming as they sing along to the Grammy winner’s tracks blasting in the lobby. 

The Eras Tour is probably the only time you want a cinema to be packed full of fans ready to sing along and despite being sold out, there were still a few empty seats so we were worried it would be a quiet showing.

We couldn’t have been more wrong as even the film classification card got a huge cheer from excited fans – although nothing compared to scream let out for the Midnights clock.

This wasn’t just a film, the experience is comparable to midnight screenings of the final Harry Potter or Marvel’s Endgame, with gasps, cheers, and tears at all the right moments.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t fan favourite Cruel Summer that had fans on their feet but the second era, Fearless, as Swifties gauged whether singing along loudly was okay (the answer was yes).

The awkwardness of being in a cinema melted away and fans were up and dancing, with reverence held for slower, emotional songs. Looking at you All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault). 

The cinema was buzzing as fans forgot they weren’t actually at the SoFi Stadium with Travis Kelce – maybe if we all cheered a little bit louder Taylor might hear us. 

Leaving the theatre, Aussie cinema-goer Tayla, 30, who has been a fan since Fearless told Metro.co.uk: ‘I loved seeing it so close, seeing her face as she sang.

‘Honestly, there’s nothing I can compare it too, even the audience in there andthe production value is unlike anything I’ve seen.’

‘Maybe I’m being greedy but I wish everything was in there. Treat it like the Cursed Child [Harry Potter play] and do two sittings?’

This feelings was resonated by other Swifties as the film controversially cuts six songs from the mammoth setlist – including her dedication to fans Long Live.

Deepti, 18, who sadly missed out on actual tour tickets, shared: ‘It’s our only chance to see the concert but this 100% made up for it.

‘Some of the songs that were on the actual concert got cut. I would have preferred Long Live in the film [rather than end credits] but I loved it still.’

Fan since Red and one of the lucky ones with Eras Tour UK tickets, Lauren, 25, added: ‘It’s a shame some of the songs like Long Live and The Archer got cut from the film for people who won’t get to see the tour.

‘That being said, Cruel Summer was a cosmic experience to get to sing along to the bridge like that.’

The Eras Tour Film has confirmed – if anyone was still in doubt – that Taylor Swift is truly The Man.

Got a story?

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Big Brother viewers were left in stitches after Farida made an unfortunate gaffe.

The make-up artist, 50, became the first housemate to be evicted after a chaotic week including clashing with Kerry, 40, upsetting Olivia, 23, over some salmon, and dividing fans with her question to Hallie about dating as a trans woman.

And Friday’s episode of the ITV2 reality show was no different, although this time she managed to rub DJ Dylan, 39, up the wrong way by forgetting his name five days in.

‘Where’s Dylan?’ Farida asked… to Dylan.

Dylan, who previously appeared on The Last Leg, was less than impressed and later nominated Farida for eviction in the diary room for not learning the housemates’ names.

However, fans on X, formerly known as Twitter, were creasing over the excruciating exchange, with one exclaiming: ‘HOWLING at Farida asking Dylan where Dylan is. Please can she stay? #BBUK.’

‘Sorry Dylan, Farida not knowing your name IS funny #BBUK,’ another giggled, while a third added: ‘Farida calling Chanelle “Janine” and Dylan “Dean” is so iconic She cannot go home #BBUK.’

Sadly, for that commentator, Farida did go home, however, she took it all in her stride and declared she was ‘happy to be out’ because she wanted to ‘protect my energy.’

She also didn’t waste time adding more fuel to the flames over her feud with NHS manager Kerry claiming that she was ‘almost trying to befriend the youngsters in there.’

Farida continued: ‘She [Kerry] would [tell housemates]: “Oh, she reminds me of me when I was 23.”

‘Almost like she related to be that 23-year-old or that 18-year-old… I would think to myself “oh my god… or ‘there are children that have tantrums, you’re having these mini tantrums”… well then she admitted she’s a drama queen.’

The remaining 15 housemates will now continue battling it out to be the winner of Big Brother and take home the £100,000.

Big Brother continues on Sunday at 9pm on ITV2.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

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Kourtney Kardashian has been banned from having sex during her pregnancy.

The 44-year-old star is expecting her first child with Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and explained how medics placed restrictions on their bedroom activity.

Kourtney – who has Mason, 13, Penelope, 11, and Reign, eight, with her ex-boyfriend Scott Disick – said: ‘Physically I feel great. I like being pregnant. I’m obsessed with the idea of being pregnant!

‘This time, unlike the previous three, I’ve been monitored by a different group of doctors who gave me many restrictions during the initial months. No workouts, no Pilates, no caffeine, no flights. Even no sex!’

The restrictions had an unsettling effect on Kourtney, and she has now put them aside after she was rushed into ‘urgent foetal surgery’ that ‘saved’ the child’s life last month.

At the time she wrote on Instagram: ‘As someone who has had three really easy pregnancies in the past, I wasn’t prepared for the fear of rushing into urgent fetal surgery.

‘I don’t think anyone who hasn’t been through a similar situation can begin to understand that feeling of fear. I have a whole new understanding and respect for the mamas who have had to fight for their babies while pregnant.

‘Praise be to God. Walking out of the hospital with my baby boy in my tummy and safe was the truest blessing. 🙏🏼🤍’

She added to Vanity Fair Italia: ‘I think all this caution made me a little afraid because I didn’t have to do this before.

‘It took me some time to let go of the fear, I would say that right after the surgery I got to the point where I started to let go, I stopped worrying.

‘Now I talk to the child every day, I have a positive mindset, my head is clear and I pray a lot.’

Kourtney faced some backlash for announcing her latest pregnancy in her 40s, but the harsh comments had no impact on her.

The reality star said: ‘These comments don’t touch me. I just say: how dare you question God’s plan? Because this is how I see this pregnancy, which happened when both Travis and I no longer even thought about it and when I stopped with IVF.’

Kourtney and Travis, 47, underwent IVF in a bid to expand their family, even though it was against The Kardashians star’s wishes.

She said: ‘IVF wasn’t my choice, I was pushed into it as if it were the only option. Truth is I felt like I was doing something that wasn’t right for me.

‘Something was telling me that it wasn’t right for me – I don’t even take medicines – that it was working against my body, rather than for it.’

Kourtney’s children are delighted to be getting a new sibling and have even been touching and kissing her pregnant belly.

She said: ‘They had been asking for a while for a little sibling. Now when they go to school in the morning, they touch my belly, kiss it, say hi.’

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Gareth Southgate hit out at England supporters who booed Jordan Henderson at Wembley during the 1-0 win over Australia on Friday evening.

Ollie Watkins’ second-half goal sealed the victory in the friendly, while England will now play Italy in their crucial Euro 2024 qualifier next Tuesday.

Henderson started as captain for Friday night’s game but was jeered by fans when he was substituted in the second half.

The former Liverpool captain has faced heavy criticism from the LGBT+ community over his decision to join the Saudi Pro League in the summer.

But Southgate is unhappy with the negative reaction Henderson received at Wembley.

‘I really don’t understand it,’ Southgate said after the game.

‘He’s a player who I think has 79 caps now for England, his commitment and what he’s delivered for England is exceptional.

‘His role within the group on and off the pitch is phenomenally important. He’s the one that has taken the likes of Jude Bellingham under his wing as soon as he came in the squad, provides a brilliant role model for all of the group in his professionalism, in his approach to every part of his work.

‘Some people decided to boo, I don’t really don’t understand what that is for.

‘You’ve got players in England shirts, come on, we play Italy here on Tuesday, I know we weren’t at our best tonight but that was due to a lot of changes that we made and we gave the players we put out there a really difficult task because to be cohesive with so may changes is tough.

‘I will just say this is a team that is delivering a lot, they all deserve everyone’s support.’

Asked if he feels Henderson is still playing at the name level after his move to Saudi Arabia, Southgate replied: ‘We’re reviewing all of the games. I think he knitted things together, he held things together quite a bit today.

‘We didn’t have as many physically strong players on the pitch today, it was the team we needed to pick to preserve people, to give people opportunities, and so you need leadership, we didn’t have a lot of experienced leadership on the field, we didn’t have a lot of caps on the field, so Hendo’s influence before the game, during the game, was hugely important. He helped other players to get through the game, no question about that.’

Asked if he believes Henderson’s decision to support Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup was a factor behind the boos, Southgate said: ‘What has that got to do with a guy supporting an England shirt?

‘I don’t really know where we’re heading with everything. I’m hugely impressed with the impeccable values and decisions that everybody in our country is making. Clearly… I don’t understand it.

‘I know what’s created it and I know why it’s happened but it defies logic to me that you would give a player who is playing and putting his heart and soul into laying for England, why boo him? How is that going to help him or the team?’

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France, Portugal and Belgium are the latest teams to qualify for Euro 2024.

As the host nation, Germany have already secured a place in next summer’s tournament and they will be joined by three of Europe’s heavyweights after their wins on Friday evening.

Two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo helped Portugal run out 3-2 winners at home to Slovakia, which has secured top spot in qualifying Group J for Roberto Martinez’s side.

Portugal have currently won all seven of their qualification games so far and can extend that against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday evening.

France also have an unblemished record in Group B and sealed their place at Euro 2024 with a 2-1 win over Netherlands on Friday.

Kylian Mbappe scored both of France’s goals but Netherlands threatened a late comeback with Quilindschy Hartman’s effort with seven minutes remaning.

The defeat leaves Netherlands third in Group B and Ronald Koeman’s side are in desperate need of a win against second-placed Greece in their next qualifier on Monday evening.

Belgium survived a late revival to beat Austria 3-2 to book their place at Euro 2024.

Sevilla forward Dodi Lukebakio scored twice before Romelu Lukaku found the net. Belgium are set to take top spot in Group F, while Austria are in line to finished second.

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Big Brother has been back on TV for just under a week and the nature of the series means we’ve already waved goodbye to the first housemate – Farida Khalifa.

Farida, 50, faced Kerry Riches, 40, in the first public vote after they received the most nominations from the housemates.

The viewing public was excited to have their say and over half a million votes were cast ahead of tonight’s eviction.

Hosts AJ Odudu, 35, and Will Best, 38, were back together for the first time since launch night to announce the results.

Of course, AJ had to say the classic, but slightly adapted due to the channel change, Big Brother catchphrase: ‘You are live on ITV2. Please do not swear.’

While speaking to the house, the pair revealed the verdict and Farida quickly had to say her goodbyes before leaving the house for good.

The make-up artist from Wolverhampton took it all in her stride and celebrated her exit, and in her post-eviction chat she said: ‘I feel like a winner.’

In fact, she said: ‘I’m happy to be out’ as she wants to ‘protect my energy.’

She was met with plenty of cheers by the crowd too, which she lapped up.

The remaining 15 housemates will now continue battling it out to be the winner of Big Brother and take home the £100,000.

Earlier in the episode, it was revealed Farida received eight nominations from Hallie, Henry, Dylan, Paul, Olivia, Tom, Jenkin, and Kerry. While Kerry received five nominations from Chanelle, Matty, Yinrun, Noky, and Farida.

Paul was nominated by both Trish and Jordan while Henry was selected by Zak but they escaped being up for eviction.

When Farida and Kerry were announced as the vulnerable housemates it caused a little bit of friction in the house.

Farida explained that she thought the house was voting out the older housemates, and Olivia, 23, smiled at the statement. This did not go down well with Farida, who took offence to the ‘smirk’.

Kerry and Farida also exchanged some tense words about the theory.

Farida explained to AJ and Will why she believes that it was hard for her to get on with Kerry: ‘She’s not the kind of person I would spend time with. I can’t be dealing with drama. I’ve got a life. She does a lot of he says, she says gossiping.’

Viewers reacted to Farida leaving ahead of NHS manager Kerry on X, formerly Twitter, and not everyone was happy.

‘That is an outrageous result. JUSTICE FOR FARIDA,’ shared one person.

‘And it seems to me, you lived your life like a candle in the wind. I can’t think of many more memorable first evictees. But you gave us your all and annoyed everyone in the process. Gone but never forgotten.’ typed one viewer.

Another added: ‘As annoying as they both are, those of you that voted for Farida over Kerry, I hope you stump your toe on the corner of the sofa.’

Of course, there was plenty of support for Kerry who won the first round of Big Brother! We can’t wait for round two.

Big Brother continues Sunday on ITV2 at 9pm

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Freddie Flintoff has reached a settlement with the BBC after he was seriously injured in a crash while filming Top Gear.

The former cricketer, who was ‘lucky to be alive’ after the horror accident in December 2022 has agreed a £9million compensation, according to The Sun.

The payout represents two years’ loss of earnings as the dad-of-four continues to recover from his injuries which his legal team described as ‘life-alteringly significant.’

The publication reports Flintoff decided against suing and a larger settlement while negotiating the deal, which was made with the motoring show’s makers BBC Studios (BBCS).

As BBCS is the Line of Duty broadcaster’s commercial arm, the compensation will not be funded by taxpayer’s licence fees.

A spokesperson from BBCS told Metro.co.uk: ‘BBC Studios has reached an agreement with Freddie that we believe supports his continued rehabilitation, return to work and future plans.

‘We have sincerely apologised to Freddie and will continue to support him with his recovery.’

The settlement comes days after Flintoff spoke publicly for the first time since the accident in a clip released by England Cricket on social media.

Referencing the incident, Flintoff said: ‘They’ll [England Cricket team} share the good times with you, the successes. But as I found over the past few months, they’ll be there in the hardest times of your life, they will stand next to you.’

In March, the BBC halted the filming of the latest season of Top Gear, stating that it would be inappropriate to resume filming at that time following an internal investigation into what happened.

It is understood that the decisions on more episodes of the long-running show will be made ‘in due course in conjunction with BBC Content.’

While Flintoff has not commented on his future on Top Gear, it has been reported he is ‘quitting’ the show after the accident, which saw him airlifted to hospital from the test track at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey on December 13.

Recent reports, however, have claimed Flintoff is planning his TV return and is ‘already in talks’ about potential projects in 2024.

The Sun said Flintoff will be making a second series of his BBC documentary Field of Dreams, as well as possibly reviving renovations programme Chasing Cars.

Flintoff began presenting Top Gear in 2019, and also appeared on Sky’s A League Of Their Own and won the first series of the Australian version of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!.

Metro.co.uk has contacted the BBC and Flintoff’s reps for comment.

Top Gear is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

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Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) in EastEnders is left wondering if she’s made the right decision ahead of her move to Abu Dhabi.

A few weeks ago, a flirtatious man called Dorian arrived and told Sharon that there’s a job waiting for her overseas if she wants it.

‘Dorian offers Sharon the chance to move to Abu Dhabi to set up shop in a new gym. It would obviously be a huge change for Sharon as Walford is her home, but with her relationship in tatters, I don’t think she feels like there’s much left to keep her there’, Letitia Dean told us.

Given everything she’s been through, Sharon was left seriously tempted by the offer but it upcoming episodes, it appears she might be having doubts.

In The Arches, a determined Keanu (Danny Walters) decides to organise a romantic date for Sharon and later, in the pub, she is struggling over the prospect of starting again in Abu Dhabi.

The week will also see Sharon involved in trying to get Kathy (Gillian Taylforth) and Ian (Adam Woodyatt) back on the same page. She acts as mediator and hatches a plan to get Ian and Kathy to the café for wine, but will Sharon really say goodbye to her friends and life in Albert Square?

We know that regardless of this choice, Sharon will be in Walford over Christmas, as she is one of six characters who will be in the Queen Vic when a dead body is discovered.

The flash-forward in February also allowed us to establish Sharon will be wearing a wedding dress in these scenes – but who is she getting married to, and how will the possible move to Abu Dhabi impact what’s to come?

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Police have arrested one suspect in connection with a mass shooting at Morgan State University, while a second remains at large.

The traumatic shooting took place at a homecoming celebration on October 3 at the historically black college in Baltimore, Maryland.

According to police, multiple gunmen opened fire into a near-capacity crowd leaving the Mister and Miss Morgan State pageant that evening.

Five people were injured in the shooting, four of whom were students at the Morgan State. The rest of the homecoming festivities at the college were cancelled.

Morgan State President David Wilson called the shooting a ‘heinous and very deliberate act of violence.’

The suspect arrested on Friday was only identified as a 17-year-old juvenile. Morgan State said he is not affiliated with the university in any way.

He was taken into custody without incident and is facing multiple counts of attempted murder.

‘While this arrest cannot undo the damage and trauma caused that day, it is my hope that it can bring some peace and justice to the victims, the Morgan community and our city,’ said Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley.

Another shooting suspect, 18-year-old Javon Williams, remains at large. He is considered armed and dangerous.

Williams is also under federal indictment for his involvement with the Kennedy Street Crew, a gang based in northwest Washington DC. He has an open warrant out for his arrest for gun and drug charges.

‘The Morgan Community can take solace today in knowing that an arrest has been made and we are one step closer to bringing all of the alleged culprits responsible for the incident that occurred on our campus to justice,’ President Wilson said on Friday.

He continued: ‘We look forward to the day when all the individuals involved in the shooting are made to be held accountable for what took place.’

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Ollie Watkins second-half goal edged England past Australia in their friendly at Wembley on Friday night.

As expected, Gareth Southgate made several changes to his starting line-up as Chelsea defender Levi Colwill made his debut, while Sam Johnstone started in goal.

A diligent Australian defence prevented England from creating clear-cut chances in the first half, and Watkins came the closest in the opening 45 minutes as he rounded Matt Turner but his effort from a tight angle hit the post.

Australia were limited to counter-attacking opportunities and their best chance came shortly before half time as Ryan Strain’s low strike inside the area beat Johnstone but Lewis Dunk was on hand to clear the ball off the line.

England stepped up their efforts after the break and were rewarded in the 57th minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold picked out Jack Grealish with a fine cross. The Manchester City midfielder was able to get the ball down and fire an effort towards goal and Watkins was on hand to poke home from two yards out.

When asked about his goal after England’s win, Watkins said: ‘I think Jack [Grealish] has gone to shoot and he’s dragged it, I don’t know if it’s going in.

‘My first thought is that it was, but I took it off him, look, when you get the opportunity you have to grab it with both hands, I had to take it off him even if it was going in.

‘I said [to Grealish] I didn’t know if it was going in, not sorry, but I was kind of looking at him saying I’m not sure. I knew I wasn’t going to come off this pitch without a goal, I just had to keep arriving and knew I’d get a chance.’

Marcus Rashford was brought on in the 61st minute and looked dangerous on England’s left flank.

However, Southgate’s side were unable to find a second, while several substitutions also disrupted Australia’s flow towards the end of the game.

England now face Italy in their Euro 2024 qualifier at Wembley on Tuesday evening.

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Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has suffered an ankle injury while on international duty with Brazil.

The 31-year-old was forced off with 11 minutes remaining in Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Venezuela on Thursday evening.

Brazil are due to play Uruguay in their World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night but it remains to be seen whether Casemiro will play any part in the fixture.

Speaking after his side’s draw, Brazil’s head coach Fernando Diniz said: ‘Casemiro asked to come off due to a blow to his ankle.’

Casemiro, who was signed in a £70 million deal from Real Madrid last year, has started all eight of United’s Premier League fixtures so far this season.

Meanwhile, United’s football director John Murtough has confirmed the club are investigating the patterns behind their lengthy injury list and claims Erik ten Hag’s side have been disrupted by fitness issues during the start of the season.

‘There are some strong mitigations for the mixed results so far, including 16 first-team players being injured or unavailable for periods since the start of the season,’ Murtough said.

‘That’s two-thirds of the squad and means that Erik has not been able to pick his strongest XI once this season. Thankfully, we’ve started to see some of the injured players returning and that should make a difference, including our new signings Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount who are still bedding into the team.

‘We’re also looking at why we’ve had so many injuries to see if there’s any patterns to improve prevention in future.

‘Some of them have been impact injuries such as Kobbie’s and Amad’s, which are unpredictable. Others have been muscular and could reflect the sheer volume of games played over the past year, including last year’s World Cup.’

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Stephen Reid (Todd Boyce) may be gone, but the story is far from over – for those left behind on Coronation Street, the aftermath is going to be explosive.

With Peter Barlow (Chris Gascoyne) in hot water after killing Stephen, Audrey Roberts (Sue Nicholls) is devastated – and fully blames him for the loss of her son.

And for others, they are worried for the future, with Underworld on the brink of collapse and Tim Metcalfe (Joe Duttine) fighting for his life.

So what’s to come? We take a look at the expected future.

Peter faces prison ahead of his exit

It’s no secret that Chris Gascoyne is set to leave his role as Peter Barlow – leaving legions of fans devastated.

Not that he is implicated in Stephen’s death, it seems that a crushing exit is on the cards for him.

He would be unlikely to split from Carla Connor (Alison King) given how much they have protected and supported each other recently.

So, the police are going to be all over him – and he could be facing jail…

Audrey is furious – and wants Peter to pay

Audrey may play an integral part in this – we have seen her rage at Peter for what happened to Stephen.

Despite everything he has done, Audrey will always love her son, and now wants justice for his death.

Will she be instrumental in having Peter sent down?

The Platts face shame

Meanwhile, the ramifications of Stephen’s murders will leave Weatherfield in shock, with the Platts finding themselves under the spotlight.

Audrey star Sue Nicholls explained: ‘His actions have affected so many people. David is very good at dealing with that and won’t let people bad mouth the family, Gail is going to try and keep a low profile.

‘And let’s not forget dear Tim is still missing and whilst that is the case people are going to be looking to the Platts for answers too.’

Can Tim survive?

Speaking of Tim, he remains trapped in that car boot. With Sally frantic, his fate hangs in the balance.

Time is running out, and Joe Duttine hasn’t ruled out an exit from the show.

‘Coronation Street’s been absolutely brilliant for me, and it’s been an absolute joy to work on.

‘So, if that’s the way the character has to go, that’s the way he has to go, and I’ll just be grateful for the time I’ve spent here. Obviously, I’d be incredibly sad, but that’s the nature of the show.’

Carla may lose her business

Stephen has swiped half a million from the factory, with Carla now in a painful situation.

With Underworld in the grips of such a crisis, she needs to find any idea she can to reverse her fortunes.

It’s going to be easier said than done…

Michael is in hot water

Michael accidentally played a part in the loss of that money, having given Stephen his logins.

So now, he is at the centre of Underworld facing closure.

But the police are also going to suspect he was in cahoots with Stephen…

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Coronation Street boss Iain MacLeod has been teasing the aftermath of Stephen Reid’s (Todd Boyce) exit from the cobbles.

This week, Stephen attempted to leave Weatherfield after his secrets slowly started to be exposed. He was hoping to fly to Thailand and start a new life with Jenny (Sally Ann Matthews) but as the truth caught up with him, Stephen chose to secretly leave on his own instead.

When he got to the airport, Stephen faced a huge problem when the assistant at the check-in desk pointed out he didn’t actually have his passport.

Forced to return home, a desperate Stephen then took Jenny hostage and held a broken bottle to her neck.

As he fell apart, Stephen’s reign of terror came to a dramatic end when Peter (Chris Gascoyne) drove into the evil businessman and killed him.

With Peter Barlow’s exit from the show looming, the next few weeks will involve DS Swain (Vicky Myers) and her team investigating everything that has occurred over the past year and a half.

But while the police do their job, the Weatherfield residents must also deal with the damage Stephen has caused, as Corrie boss Iain MacLeod explains:

‘It’s like when you watch a movie and it’s the end of the film and that’s that and the protagonist walks off into the sunset as the credits roll. But obviously soap doesn’t end. It goes on and you need to have the sequel to the movie in your heads before you’ve even started telling the story of the first movie.

‘So, yes, there are wide-ranging consequences to Stephen’s exit, both emotionally and practically and criminally going forward. You need to know what season two of the tv series is before you’ve written series one, or you need to know what the sequel is.

He added: ‘So, in the grand tradition of sequels, I hope what you’re about to see is Godfather part two which is one of the best sequels ever. And not Ace Ventura two, which isn’t. I’m confident we’ve nailed this. The consequences inevitably of crimes of this scale are going to be huge, so it’s going to be an exciting few months on Coronation Street.’

Reflecting on the community being involved in Stephen’s final moments, Iain also highlighted the importance of that, and how it kickstarts other characters’ storylines:

‘That’s what continuing drama and soap does best. It’s about communities, isn’t it? It’s not just as simple as Stephen’s done some bad stuff, it has ripple effects across the whole street and that’s just a lot more fun to watch really, otherwise it doesn’t feel like a soap anymore. So, we were very keen to explore all the ways in which Stephen’s bad behaviour, to euphemistically describe it – it’s probably gone further than bad behaviour by now – but we wanted to explore all the people he’s impacted from Carla to Peter to Audrey, indirectly to Sarah who’s trusted this guy.

‘He’s been like her mentor, her inspiration business-wise and there’s a big impact on her. Michael, who’s been mentored by Stephen recently, the impact on him. He’s just had all these far-reaching influences on all these characters an we just loved the idea of all these chickens coming home to roost in this big week.’

‘I think it’s entirely unique!’, he said, pondering over Stephen’s entire storyline and the impact it’s had on so many.

‘What I’ve liked about watching Stephen is, yes, you could try and sit there and find parallels between previous iconic Corrie bad guys, but I think he’s entirely of his own genre.

‘I’ve talked about villains before, but I’m reminded of Alan Rickman, who was apparently once asked why he always played villains, and he somewhat prickly replied, “Oh, I don’t play villains, I play very interesting people.” I think that’s how Todd’s approached it and how we’ve approached it in the writing, which is this isn’t a man who woke up one morning and thought, “Do you know what’s missing from my life? A bit of random murder and mayhem.” We’ve watched that evolve and we’ve rooted it all in this man’s massive, fragile ego.

‘I think he’s entirely unique and will go on to be entirely iconic. As we’ve seen today, he’s had his face on cupcakes and popcorn boxes already – I wish I hadn’t eaten mine because Ebay might quite enjoy that!

‘The story, the character and the performance from Todd has just been up there with my very favourite Corrie villains.’

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Coronation Street may have killed off Stephen Reid (Todd Boyce), but Tim Metcalfe (Joe Duttine) is not out of the woods yet – literally.

Sally (Sally Dynevor) is fearing the worst for her missing husband and begs Stephen for answers on his whereabouts.

However, he didn’t confirm where he was before he died, having been run over by Peter Barlow (Chis Gascoyne).

Originally, Stephen was going to torch the car with Tim inside, assuming he had killed him.

Tim remains in the boot and, at the end of the big episodes of Stephen’s ending, Tim stirred with a gasp, still tied up in the boot.

Night had fallen but he was in the middle of the forest as he called for help. With air likely to run out, Tim’s situation is grave.

While Corrie may have revealed his current fate of being alive, it might not be for long as he faces a long and grim death.

Sally faces a race against time, but she has absolutely nothing to go on, which may reveal the terrible outcome.

Joe Duttine recently opened up to Metro.co.uk about the possibility of him leaving the show, saying: ‘Coronation Street’s been absolutely brilliant for me, and it’s been an absolute joy to work on’, Joe told us, reflecting on the prospect of leaving the show.

‘So, if that’s the way the character has to go, that’s the way he has to go, and I’ll just be grateful for the time I’ve spent here.

‘Obviously, I’d be incredibly sad, but that’s the nature of the show.’

It’s been a long road, with Tim being one of the first to clock the truth about Stephen.

In fact, he was the one to find Teddy’s body, triggering Stephen’s downfall after 18 months.

And Joe was pretty chuffed to play such a big part.

‘It’s good to stretch the acting muscles a little bit and have the opportunity to get out and do stuff that’s a challenge and flex your creative muscles a bit. I enjoyed it a lot,’ she smiled.

‘I’ve been wanting to catch a villain for a long time! Ever since Phelan, I wanted to get Phelan.

‘I didn’t want Phelan to get away with it because of the stuff that he was doing to Faye.

‘So, finally, Tim got the chance to play his part in bringing the villain down. So yeah, I relish every moment!’.

We’re not relishing the prospect of losing Tim however, and hoping against hope that the slim chance of his survival comes to fruition.

Can’t believe we have to think about it all weekend!

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