National Treasure Sir Bruce Forsyth Dies

Originally published in The Indiependent.

Sir Bruce Forsyth, the veteran entertainer and presenter, has died age 89. He had been suffering from illness for some time and had been in and out of hospital over the last year – something he alluded to in classic good humour by reportedly saying ‘I’ve been very, very busy… being ill!’ Many people, young and old, will be saddened by his passing as this national treasure has entertained viewers for decades in classic shows like ‘The Generation Game’, ‘Play Your Cards Right’ and since 2004 ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.

He died peacefully at his home surrounded by his wife of 34 years, Wilnelia Merced, and his children after contracting bronchial pneumonia. Many tributes have been shared on social media from high profile names, including those that worked with him over the years. Tess Daly said she was “heartbroken” and would “never forget his generosity, his brilliant sense of humour and his drive to entertain the audiences he so loved”. Continue reading “National Treasure Sir Bruce Forsyth Dies”

Royals in Hull

Originally published in The Hullfire.

The city of Hull received royal approval last week when the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall visited the newly refurbished and recently reopened Ferens Art Gallery. They were here as part of a wider tour to celebrate Hull’s year as UK City of Culture. Amongst the wide collection of art on display at the gallery they viewed the rare 14th century masterpiece by pietro Lorenzetti which is now on permanent display there and a major highlight. Continue reading “Royals in Hull”

TV News: HBO’s Westworld trailer released (23/6/16)

Originally published on The Indiependent.

HBO have released a teaser trailer for their upcoming Science Fiction/thriller TV series Westworld, based on the 1973 film of the same name. The trailer splices a visceral Western backdrop and gun slinging action with mysterious science fiction and androids. It will be produced by J.J. Abrams and Jonathon Nolan (Christopher’s brother) and the series will be written by Nolan and his wife Lisa Joy. Continue reading “TV News: HBO’s Westworld trailer released (23/6/16)”

TV News: Marvel’s The Punisher Netflix Series Announced (2/5/16)

Originally published on The Indiependent.

Netflix and Marvel are set to continue their unrivalled conquest of superhero television after announcing a full season of Marvel’s The Punisher. Following on from his performance in the generally well received second season of the Netflix series Marvel’s Daredevil, Jon Bernthal will reprise the role of Frank Castle AKA The Punisher. Both Jon Bernthal’s performance as the conflicted and compelling anti-hero and his character arc were the highlights of the second series and it was inevitable that Netflix would heed the call of fans clamouring for a solo run. Continue reading “TV News: Marvel’s The Punisher Netflix Series Announced (2/5/16)”

TV News: BBC One’s Dickensian Cancelled (21/4/16)

Originally posted on The Indiependent.

If you were a fan of the recent BBC One drama Dickensian and you wanted ‘some more’, then like Oliver Twist himself you will be disappointed. The big budget drama, which was inspired by Charles Dickens’s novels, has been axed after just one series. Running for 20 episodes after a successful launch on Boxing Day, it initially attracted audiences of 5 million. Continue reading “TV News: BBC One’s Dickensian Cancelled (21/4/16)”