thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Watch Live: Boris Johnson Leads The Last Daily Coronavirus Briefing

Watch Live: Boris Johnson Leads The Last Daily Coronavirus Briefing
Boris Johnson chairs the last daily coronavirus briefing alongside chief scientific advisor Sir Patrick Vallance and chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty. It comes after the prime minister announced easing of lockdown measures for England earlier today.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Hancock’s Abandoned Test And Trace App Cost Taxpayer Nearly £12m, Minister Reveals

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Matt Hancock is facing fresh criticism over his Test and Trace app plan after the government revealed it had spent nearly £12m on the ill-fated project.
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Shadow cabinet office minister Rachel Reeves hit out at the “staggering” failure to deliver the promised technology as health minister Lord Bethell confirmed the cost in the House of Lords.
She said that cash used could have been spent instead on better personal protective equipment (PPE) for NHS and social care staff, or on four million masks for the general public.
Months after first promising the UK’s own bespoke Test and Trace app for the NHS, Hancock last week finally abandoned the project in favour of a separate app that was compatible with Apple and Google privacy curbs.
Asked by independent peer Lord Truscott just how much “this technical fiasco has cost taxpayers”, Bethell replied: “The cost to date has been £11.8m.”
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The new figure is the latest twist in a saga that saw Hancock promising in April that the NHSX app would be ready by “the middle of May”. He described it as “crucial”, while No.10 said it would be “a key part of the surveillance programme going forward”.
The app was then downgraded to just the “cherry on the cake” of the wider NHS Test and Trace programme – and finally abandoned last week in favour of a model more acceptable to Google and Apple.
Reeves told HuffPost UK: “It is staggering that we were promised by ministers that this app they were developing would play a vital role – that it would be up and ready by mid-May, and now a month later has been ditched.
“The government ignored warnings and evidence from other countries that this particular project would not work and instead the ministers squandered at least £11.8m of public money on this costly and chaotic error.
“That £11.8m could have been spent on better protective equipment for health and care workers or buying four million packs of face coverings for the public and particularly those experiencing the greatest hardship. That would have made a real difference and helped limit the spread of coronavirus.”
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Hancock insisted on Tuesday that “ensuring that we use technology to its best possible effects is incredibly important”.
The health secretary is also facing claims from Labour that he spent £100m on a call centre run by private sector firms Serco and Sitel, where some tracers have claimed they have not enough work to do.
Boris Johnson promised a “world beating” system would be in place by June 1, but even NHS Test and Trace chief Baroness Harding has admitted it is not the “gold standard” yet.
In its first two weeks, the human-based version of the system failed to contact a quarter of those who tested positive for Covid-19.
The Department of Health and Social Care has insisted that NHS Test and Trace has made a solid start and improvements will follow in coming weeks.
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More than 90% of those who were managed to be identified by tracers have supplied details of their “close contacts”, defined as people who spend more than 15 minutes with others less than two metres away.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “We were absolutely right to invest in the Isle of Wight phase – it has provided us with valuable information that we will now use to build an app that is right for the British public.
“Our rigorous testing identified issues both with our app and the Google/Apple API, which did not estimate distance in the way we required. So if we had simply followed their approach we would be no further towards building a viable product.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Will The Show Go On? The Coronavirus-Ravaged Theatre Industry Is In Collapse, But Can It Be Saved?

‘The show must go on’ goes the old adage. And on and on theatres had gone, some resiliently through both World Wars, until the coronavirus.
But the obvious reality that theatre is incompatible with social distancing means, like music festivals, that their model is fundamentally opposed to life during a pandemic.
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So naturally, news of the virus has frightened theatre workers, particularly regional and Fringe theatre staff, whose work is less financially stable than the West End’s - which itself is defined by financial unpredictability.
Statistics show that advance ticket sales have decreased by 92% since the virus, according to data from TRG Arts data specialists, illustrating the bleakness of the current picture as the industry is estimated to have lost around £330 million from the shut down.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has yet to announce the specifics of any sort of future funding plans, and there are fears that when he does, financial support will be too little, too late.
An update came from the Government on 21 June when prime minister Boris Johnson told the Commons: “We will work with the arts industry on specific guidance to allow choirs, orchestras and theatres to resume as soon as possible” - but the messaging has been criticised for being vague by industry experts, including the Lion & Unicorn Theatre.
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In a tweet, they said: “Having watched the Prime Minister’s speech we once again find ourselves with a frustrating lack of clarity and support for the theatre industry and no guidance on when venues might reopen.”
Attempting to keep morale high amid the fear, theatre communities have streamed digital shows to keep creatively relevant. And despite financial uncertainty, one upside is that online performances have helped theatre reach potentially more new audiences under lockdown than they would have reached if the virus hadn’t happened.
The National Theatre’s weekly streams of classic shows have responded to the national appetite for entertainment under lockdown, and have attracted audiences of non-theatre-goers, convinced to venture through digital doors by friends on the basis of doing something together - albeit remotely - amid the gloom.
However, financially - away from the joyous new streaming culture - venues are erring on collapse.
So how can theatres stay alive with their lights off on a semi-permanent basis?
The Royal Opera House has been dormant since lockdown Yang Liu via Getty Images
“We have all depended on art and entertainment throughout this current crisis to maintain our wellbeing and quality of life,” reflects Alistair Smith, Editor at The Stage newspaper. “Theatre can make a hugely positive contribution on all these fronts, but only if it is still around to do so.”
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The main issue for theatre workers is that the Job Retention Scheme, which pays employees 80% of their wages, may end soon as other industries receiving support from the Scheme open their doors to customers, potentially leaving the theatre industry behind.
Alistair Smith feels “increasingly pessimistic about the government’s willingness to offer meaningful sector-specific support,” and thinks other industries, like football, have been prioritised over theatre “despite the fact that many more people go to the theatre every year than go to a live Premier League match.”
He calls on a mixture of grants, tax breaks and investments to be paid back when theatre is up and running, particularly to support the 70% of theatre staff that work freelance and are thought to be most at risk.
Justin Audibert, Artistic Director at the Unicorn Theatre, shares Alistair’s concerns. “Seventy percent of theatres say that they will have to close by Christmas if they don’t get further government help,” says Justin, echoing the fears expressed by Book of Mormon producer Sonia Friedman in her piece in The Telegraph.
Justin calls the Job Retention Scheme a “vital lifeline” but believes it won’t protect theatres from imminent closure.
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Many theatres have already started making mass redundancies. They include the Birmingham Hippodrome, which made the “heartbreaking” decision to give 130 staff notice of redundancy, and the entire artistic team at the Royal Theatre Plymouth.
The playwright James Graham, behind ITV’s Quiz, described the cultural impact of that specific closure in one sobering tweet, saying the “cultural landscape is in collapse.”
The entire artistic team at the Theatre Royal Plymouth are being made redundant in 3 days. That’s one of the largest, most well attended theatres outside London. A theatre that now has no artists, and they won’t be coming back. Our world-beating cultural landscape is in collapse pic.twitter.com/SOxzz26sxd — James Graham (@mrJamesGraham) June 23, 2020
Additionally, Cameron Mackintosh’s theatre companies and theatre owner Nimax have also confirmed redundancies in the strongest sign yet that cracks have reached the highest echelons of the industry.
One of biggest fears is that minority groups will be disproportionately affected. “We as a sector need to ensure that Black, Asian, ethnically diverse, Deaf and Disabled developing artists are protected and their talents nurtured,” says Justin from the Unicorn.
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More broadly he fears that the “eco-system” that encourages and supports new talent to progress from community theatre to professional theatre has been damaged.
“At its best theatre works as a virtuous feedback loop of talent being developed by new, exciting companies, who are nurtured by small venues, and then go on to tour work into the subsidised sector before eventually having commercial success,” he says. “This development has ground to a halt.”
Justin Audibert Mitzi de Margary
So while the industry waits for news on the pipeline for funding, individual venues are considering their options. Financially crippling constraints aside, there’s the idea of performing in a socially-distanced theatre.
One such project in Berlin has seen 500 of the 700 seats removed to prepare for distanced reopening. In the UK, The Great Gatsby immersive production has announced an October 1 reopening with social distancing, combining a new masked mall element to allow PPE protection.
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And in Sheffield, the Shakespeare To Sheffield scheme will see outdoor Shakespeare productions staged, but they are the outliers as the major players in the industry hedge their bets.
But would anyone want to perform to a mostly-empty room, let alone pay to experience that?
“We are looking into socially distanced audience seating, which is challenging in terms of audience and performer experience, as well as economically,” says James Brining, Leeds Playhouse’s Artistic Director.
Justin from the Unicorn goes a step further. “An auditorium with lots of empty seats feels problematic,” he says, “and an empty auditorium just isn’t commercially viable. We’re more likely to explore ideas around presenting work outdoors or in schools,” a model that feels particularly suited to children’s theatre, but also to immersive theatre and site-specific outdoor theatre.
The Leeds Playhouse Heather Whiston
The format may be up in the air, but the priority is to begin performance in some way, as soon as possible.
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“The experience of live theatre unites people and will be a much-needed healing factor for communities,” says James from the Leeds Playhouse. “We want to continue to produce vital, exciting theatre for Leeds and the city region, plus make nationally and internationally significant work in the future.”
But more pressing is the call for clarity on financial support. More cash may eventually be offered, but redundancies are being made now, already causing the industry to bleed.
“Theatres are having to start redundancy processes that could absolutely devastate the theatre workforce and risk destroying what was once a world-leading sector,” warns Alistair from The Stage.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Windrush Review Recommendations Accepted By Government In Full

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The government will accept the recommendations of the review of the Windrush scandal in full, Priti Patel has announced.
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The home secretary said the scandal wrought “unspeakable injustices” on people and highlighted “institutional failings” at the Home Office.
Patel said the scandal, which saw many people wrongly told they no longer had a right to be in the UK and some even deported, led to a “fundamental breakdown of trust” between the Windrush generation and the Home Office.
And she admitted that compensation for victims had been “far too slow”, following widespread criticism.
Making a statement in the Commons, Patel went on: “I have apologised for the appalling treatment suffered and on March 19 I made a statement after I received the long awaited Windrush lessons learned review from Wendy Williams.
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“The review itself is damning of the conduct of the Home Office and unequivocal about the ignorance and institutional thoughtlessness towards the race and the history of the Windrush generation by the department.
“There are serious and significant lessons for the Home Office to learn.”
She said she was reviewing the Home Office’s leadership, the culture and practices and the way it treats all parts of the community.
“These reforms are only the start,” Patel said.
“I was clear that when Wendy Williams published her lessons learned review that I would listen and I would act.
“I have heard what she has said and I will be accepting the recommendations she has made in full.”
Home secretary Priti Patel TOLGA AKMEN via Getty Images
Patel’s announcement comes after more than 130,000 people signed a petition calling for the government to implement the recommendations made in the review.
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The document, published in March, was critical of the “hostile environment” immigration policy introduced by then-home secretary Theresa May in 2012.
Williams’ report concluded that the Home Office had shown “ignorance and thoughtlessness” on the issue of race when some people were incorrectly told that they did not have the right to be in Britain.
The report made 30 recommendations, including that the government assess and limit the impact of the hostile environment on the Windrush generation.
It also called for a programme of reconciliation events with members of the Windrush generation, Home Office staff to undertake a comprehensive programme covering the history of the UK and its colonial history, and the appointment of a Migrants’ Commission which would be responsible for speaking up for migrants and those affected by the system.
Patel said more than £1m has been offered in compensation to victims of the scandal.
So far more than 12,000 people have now been granted immigration documentation by the Windrush task force, including more than 5,900 grants of citizenship.
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Patel told MPs: “My determination to right the wrongs and the injustices suffered by the Windrush generation is undiminished and I will do all I can to make sure that more people are helped and more people are compensated in full. And if additional resources are needed, they will be provided.”
Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds criticised the governemnt for being slow to compensate those affected by the scandal.
He said: “The government’s Windrush compensation scheme managed to compensate just 60 people in its first year of operation.
″[Patel] talked about more progress today but she must know that that rate of progress is just too slow given the number of years that have elapsed since this scandal first came to light and already this scheme has been in operation for over a year.”
Patel replied: “I agree, the payments and the way in which payments have been made have been far too slow,” but added: “I have outlined in my statement that it is right that we treat each individual with the respect and dignity they deserve. These are complicated cases.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--A Minute Of Kindness: Making Friends With The Loneliest Nearby

A Minute Of Kindness: Making Friends With The Loneliest Nearby
Time To Talk Befriending pairs the loneliest people in society with those looking to make new friends, of any age. Supported by The National Lottery Community Fund, they are tackling the loneliness which was only exacerbated during the pandemic. We spoke to Claire about the benefits of reaching out to those around you, who may not have anyone else.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--No.10 Coronavirus Press Conferences Will No Longer Be Daily

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The Downing Street press conferences that have been a feature of the coronavirus crisis will no longer happen every day.
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No.10 announced on Tuesday ministers would continue to hold briefings only when “significant announcements” are made.
It comes after Boris Johnson announced from July 4 a widespread easing of the Covid-19 lockdown that has been in place for three months.
Earlier this month, Downing Street cancelled weekend press conferences due to their low TV ratings.
Johnson’s official spokesperson said at the time that the briefings were being scaled back as the government moved into a “different phase” of the fight against the virus.
Data normally shown at the press conference on deaths, testing, infection rates and other measures will be made available on the government’s website.
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Chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance, Britain's prime minister Boris Johnson and chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty take part in a coronavirus media briefing in Downing Street, London, Thursday May 28 ASSOCIATED PRESS
Led by ministers including the prime minister and health secretary Matt Hancock, the daily No.10 briefings have become a regular fixture in the UK’s response to the pandemic.
The politicians were usually joined by government experts including chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance and chief medical officer Chris Whitty.
Members of the public have been allowed daily questions as well as journalists.
When the briefings began in March, journalists packed closely together into the room.
But the epidemic grew, the lectures were moved moved apart and reporters had to ask questions via video link.
When Johnson made his address to the nation on his easing of lockdown last month, more than 27.5m people tuned in.
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The broadcast on the new “road map” out of the crisis was one of the most-watched television broadcasts in British history, surpassing the audience figures for the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony and the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Under the plan to lift more of the lockdown rules in England announced today, families can be reunited and dinner parties will be allowed – but millions of people will still be unable to hug their loved ones.
Under the changes from July 4, indoor gatherings involving two separate households will be permitted – including the possibility of visiting reopened pubs and restaurants – but social distancing will need to be maintained.
Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey MP said: “On the day the prime minister has announced the next crucial stages of exiting lockdown, it beggars belief ministers are now dodging scrutiny.
“At a time when millions of people are worried about how they go back to a more normal life, the government should be making themselves more accessible to the public, not less.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Tina Fey Apologises As 30 Rock Episodes Featuring Blackface Are Pulled From Streaming Services

Tina Fey has apologised for featuring blackface in episodes of her award-winning sitcom 30 Rock.
In a statement published by Variety, Tina – who created 30 Rock and also played lead character Liz Lemon – said she was sorry “for the pain [the episodes] have caused”.
She also revealed that they were being taken out of circulation, which includes removing them from streaming platforms Amazon Prime and Hulu.
“As we strive to do the work and do better in regards to race in America, we believe that these episodes featuring actors in race-changing make-up are best taken out of circulation,” she explained.
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“I understand now that ‘intent’ is not a free pass for white people to use these images. I apologise for pain they have caused. Going forward, no comedy-loving kid needs to stumble on these tropes and be stung by their ugliness.”
Tina on the set of 30 Rock with co-stars Tracy Morgan and Jane Krakowski NBC via Getty Images
She also thanked production company NBCUniversal for “honouring this request”.
The 30 Rock episodes in question include Believe In The Stars, in which Tracy Morgan and Jane Krakowski’s characters switch identities to see whether Black men or white women face bigger day-to-day struggles, and a live episode which saw guest star John Hamm appearing in blackface.
Tina Fey at the Writers Guild Awards earlier this year Dominik Bindl via Getty Images
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Tina’s apology comes as a number of other shows which feature actors in blackface have been taken down from streaming services, including the sketch comedy Little Britain.
Last week, comedians Matt Lucas and David Walliams issued a joint apology for having performed in blackface in their shows Little Britain and Come Fly With Me.
HBO Max has also announced that they have temporarily removed the film Gone With The Wind from their new streaming platform due to its “racist depictions”.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--UK Records 171 More Coronavirus Deaths In 24 Hours, Bringing Total To 42,927

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The number of people who have died in the UK after testing positive for coronavirus has risen to 42,927 – an increase of 171 over 24 hours.
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Since the end of April, the government’s daily announcement has included people in care homes and the community, rather than just in hospital, who have died.
But only those who had tested positive for Covid-19 are included, meaning anyone who died with a suspected case won’t be recorded.
The figures cover the period up to 5pm on Monday.
Statista
It comes after the number of people who have died in hospitals across the UK, as well as care homes in Wales, after contracting the virus rose by 56 in 24 hours.
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That increase consisted of 46 in England, four in Scotland, five in Wales and one in Northern Ireland.
Meanwhile, as of 9am on Tuesday, 8,309,929 people had been tested for coronavirus, with 306,210 coming back positive. Some 237,142 tests were carried out in the preceding 24 hours, with 874 new cases confirmed.
Monday saw the lowest daily update – 15 – since mid-March, but the jump on Tuesday is in keeping with the usual weekly pattern of a weekend slump and a spike on Tuesday, as data recording slows or stops in some settings on Saturday and Sunday.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--'An Abrupt End': How Shielders Feel About Restrictions Ending

Photographer, Basak Gurbuz Derman via Getty Images
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Around 2.2 million people in England are shielding from coronavirus, but the government has decided it will soon be time for them to resume regular life – or the so-called “new normal”.
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Those shielding in England will be allowed to gather in groups of up to six people outdoors from July 6, the government announced on Monday. From August 1, the guidance to shield – and the support provided – will be scrapped in England entirely.
Elsewhere in the UK, shielding restrictions are also being relaxed. In Wales, those deemed clinically vulnerable have been advised to shield until August 16. In Scotland, the advice is to keep shielding until “at least 31 July 2020”, but further updates are expected. And in Northern Ireland, “it is anticipated that shielding for extremely vulnerable people will be paused” from 31 July.
Following the latest announcement, HuffPost UK asked those who have been shielding how they feel about the easing restrictions.
‘We need to live beyond the fear of the disease’
Kreena Dhiman, 40, says up until recently, she and her family “barely left the house”. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at 33. The tumour damaged her ovaries and sent her into an early menopause – and three years after treatment, she found herself in ICU following acute heart failure.
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“Friends brought groceries over and we were extremely cautious in all that we did,” she says. “However I have a two-year-old and staying at home is challenging, so we started to take short walks every two days around our estate at quiet times of the day.”
HuffPost UK Supplied
For Kreena and her family, the new measures come with mixed feelings. “We will get out more, but will be very cautious of coming into contact with people,” she says.
“As a young family, you don’t have much choice, we need to live beyond the fear of the disease. However, my mum is shielding and suffers from chronic lung disease. I can’t see her leaving the house even once the restrictions are lifted.”
‘Without a vaccine, it’s a risk I will have to live with’
Asad Mushtaq, 38, from Lancashire, has a rare autoimmune disorder called sceleroderma, which includes a related lung disease. He “reluctantly” started to go for infrequent walks a couple of weeks ago, but has otherwise stayed indoors.
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“I may invite people to my garden from July 7,” he says. “That will really help, as being socially isolated is tough. However, I have anxiety about being outside and can’t imagine after August 1 I’ll be happy to go shopping, or go to work. It seems like an economic decision rather than a public health standpoint.”
Asad Mushtaq Asad Mushtaq
Mushtaq works in finance and says his employer has been great, giving him full support to work from home while he feels he needs to.
“They are putting in full protective measures at work,” he adds. “But even if the assessed risk in the country is low, my health condition leaves me vulnerable. Without a vaccine, it’s a risk I feel I will have to live with.”
‘I wouldn’t stop shielding until I felt reassured by the government’
Lucinda Mae Parfett, 20, from south Wales, has multiple underlying health conditions that require her to shield, including asthma and Classical Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, a genetic connective tissue disorder.
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She’s recently started going for walks outside, but was “very disheartened” by the latest briefing for shielders.
“We went over 30 days with no communication from the government about the shielded group at all,” she says, “to then be told statutory sick pay for shielders is going to stop, and there will be no gentle easing off of shielding – only an abrupt end.”
Lucinda Mae Parfett
“Living in Wales, the end to shielding is slightly longer on the 16th,” Lucinda adds. “But regardless, I wouldn’t stop shielding until I felt reassured by the government of what they were doing to help protect people in the high risk group.”
Life can’t return to normal until everyone in society follows the guidelines strictly, she says. “However, that’s difficult because the guidelines aren’t clear or well enforced.”
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‘There should have been a gap between lifting lockdown and lessening shielding advice’
Debbi Wood, 61, from Hampshire, has severe eosinophilic asthma and has been shielding since March 17, only going outside to sit in her own garden.
“After years of steroid treatment my immune system is very low,” she explains. “My lungs cannot fight infection and even getting a slight cold can end up in an emergency admission.”
She feels the announcement that pubs and cinemas will reopen “gives people the impression that the virus has gone”.
Debbi Wood
“There should have been a gap between lifting lockdown and lessening shielding advice, so it could be monitored carefully,” she says.
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“Many will be forced back to work in unsafe conditions. I will continue to shield until August 1 and monitor the data given by the scientists, as well as advice by my consultants – not the government.”
‘It only takes one exposure and I’m in serious trouble’
Aaron Foulds Keighley, 49, from West Yorkshire, has severe asthma, which means he’s in A&E three or four times a year. He hasn’t ventured outside since lockdown began, saying: “It only takes one exposure and I’m in serious trouble.”
Despite the official easing of restrictions, he’s hoping to continue shielding as much as possible. “I won’t be going shopping and I’ll be avoiding public places, I’m not convinced a blanket approach is appropriate,” he says.
Aaron Foulds Keighley
Aaron questions how the government can know the extent to which people with different conditions are impacted by coronavirus. “Have they really had the chance to accurately assess the virus on the shielded conditions?” he asks. “I think we are going to be the second wave.”
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He acknowledges millions of people “can’t shield forever” but says the latest announcement feels like “a political decision” and “a good news story”, rather than a convincing medical argument.
‘I will decide when it’s safe for me’
Jane, 63, from Hampshire, has a chronic lung condition, meaning Covid-19 “would likely be fatal”. She’s been going out for countryside and beach walks a couple of times a week.
“I wear a mask but it’s still not as relaxing as it should be,” says Jane, who chose not to share her surname. “They’ve been for our sanity – I needed to have a bit of normality. We’ve had one garden visit from a shielding neighbour, strict distancing and no going in the house. It helped us both to just sit and chat.”
Monday’s announcement gave her “no reason” to change her behaviour, she adds. “Covid is still out there... we are still at level three and I don’t trust government data,” she says. “I still can’t go to shops, supermarkets, public gatherings. I will decide when it’s safe for me, with personal medical advice.”
‘It’s come as a surprise... things still seem so uncertain’
Lauren Campbell-Thompson, 27, from London, is shielding as she lives and cares for her twin sister, who has cerebral palsy. Lauren also has asthma.
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“Shielding has been an experience of highs and lows,” she says. “For my sister, it hasn’t had too much of an impact as she dislikes being outside. However, I’ve had a lot of nightmares about catching corona and passing it onto my sister or my aunt who is currently having treatment for cancer.”
HuffPost UK Supplied
Lauren is a health worker and assistant psychologist, but she hasn’t worked to ensure she doesn’t infect her household. “The news about shielding ending has come as quite a surprise as things still seem so uncertain – other countries have had second waves and there’s still so much we don’t know about the virus.
“It also puts more stress on carers who will have to return to work out of fear of losing their jobs, and worry about picking up the virus. I will continue to shield for longer – and so will my family.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--The Internet Is Having A Lot Of Fun With Memes Of Lady Gaga's Chromatica II/911 Transition

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Every so often, Twitter throws up a trend that gets us absolutely howling, and the latest has seen fans getting very creative with a track on Lady Gaga’s latest album.
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On her newest release, Chromatica, Gaga features a number of orchestral transitions between some of her tracks.
Fans have particularly fallen in love with ‘Chromatica II’, which bridges the gap between Fun Tonight and 911 in very dramatic fashion.
Since the album’s release last month, people have discovered that it actually lends itself very nicely to soundtracking some memorable (and often ridiculous) TV and film moments, and the results have been seriously inspired...
Many Coronation Street clips have received the Chromatica treatment, starting with Gail and Eileen scrapping on t’cobbles
Gail and Eileen x 911 transition pic.twitter.com/mb3lyJ6KXE — Lewis Pringle 🌹 (@lewispringle) June 21, 2020
Gail throwing a pie at Deirdre
Gail Platt throwing a pie at Deirdre Barlow’s face to the Chromatica II - 911 transition pic.twitter.com/GclFn5Fccp — 🥃Russell (@RussellHayward) June 22, 2020
Richard Hillman trying to kill the Platt family by driving them into a river
Corrie x 911 Transition pic.twitter.com/GmdxSWWtnq — joe (@j0sephharrison) June 21, 2020
And the moment that tram came plunging off the viaduct
Chromatica II transition to 911 X The iconic Corrie tram crash pic.twitter.com/Kxp7tHrVtX — Sharon Mitchell’s Toyboy (@shazstoyboy) June 21, 2020
Infamous EastEnders moments have also been memed, including ‘bubbly’s in the fridge’
Bubbly’s In The Fridge x 911 transition pic.twitter.com/9K9YmV9L5W — Shirley Carter’s Pussy (@ShirleyPussy) June 21, 2020
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And Sharon getting cream poured all over her
Eastenders Sharon’s Creamy surprise x 911 Transition pic.twitter.com/wYUOh3aDBp — Shirley Carter’s Pussy (@ShirleyPussy) June 21, 2020
One remix set to the scene of Mulan leaving home in the Disney classic could literally have been in the film
Anyway here’s the scene where Mulan leaves home cut to the transition from Chromatica II into 911 pic.twitter.com/wN8BLQ3usc — Tom Zohar (@TomZohar) June 11, 2020
A Tomb Raider remix was as equally iconic
Chromatica II to 911 transition in Tomb Raider II 💥 pic.twitter.com/ZjW4Cj6Xet — Lara Chromatica (@LaraChromatica) June 13, 2020
The transition was also a perfect fit to Alison Hammond sending a shirtless model plunging into the Albert Dock live on This Morning
chromatica II / 911 (with alison hammond) pic.twitter.com/vypB1Of5pX — s c o t t 🌸 (@_scottg_) June 21, 2020
And also to the moment her This Morning co-star Josie Gibson’s rollercoaster ride
Chromatica II / 911 transition with Josie Gibson...because obviously pic.twitter.com/aO0UOO7ka0 — Tom Evans (@t0mevans) June 22, 2020
Not to mention Ainsley Harriott entering a pensioner’s house with a frying pan, proclaiming, “Why, helllloooo, Jill!”
Alison and Ainsley X Chromatica pic.twitter.com/lxHbeb0Qha — Levi 🌻🌈 (@scally_cinnamon) June 22, 2020
Gemma Collins’ infamous fall on Dancing On Ice is especially excellent
Gemma Collins x Chromatica II / 911 pic.twitter.com/YoMPlzpOKa — Liv Marks ♡ (@OliviaLilyMarks) June 23, 2020
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See also: Fearne Cotton shattering a revolving door
Fearne cotton breaking a revolving door - Chromatica II into 911 transition pic.twitter.com/9H8YKQJeNg — Jack (@spongebobblob) June 21, 2020
Wendy Williams was literally shook by the transition
Wendy reacts to Chromatica II transition to 911🚨 #howyoubooin🗽 pic.twitter.com/pe4LWYD5IJ — Anthony Dalmeida (@eggplAnthony) June 23, 2020
The there was this nostalgic X Factor moment
Here is my one and only attempt at an iconic #Chromatica II into 911 transition. If this hasn’t gone viral by the time I wake up, I’ll feel let down by all of you. pic.twitter.com/56XjMDBAkF — Stuart (@st_ua_rt) June 22, 2020
And the transition was also set to this iconic runway transition on RuPaul’s Drag Race
to all the chromatica lovers, and in honor of @canadasdragrace coming soon, i tried to match the chromatica II to 911 transition with brooke lynn’s runway ruveal... @Bhytes1 ❤ pic.twitter.com/fz5hBZvtgf — ma (BOB DAY ❤) (@marymaryskaf) June 15, 2020
And of course, no viral mash up would be complete without an honourable mention to David’s Dead from Celebrity Big Brother
this might be my favourite chromatica II transition ever. like ever. pic.twitter.com/kivvg7kBR2 — emily 🦋 (@missemilyjayx) June 22, 2020
There’s also been some incredible music mash ups too, including to Kylie’s Can’t Get You Out Of My Head
Chromatica II but it transitions into Can't Get You out of My Head pic.twitter.com/UXQ7qTGt0M — Maxwell Fong (@maxwell_fong) June 15, 2020
But perhaps the best of the lot belongs to this guy...
This is the ONLY way the Chromatica II to 911 transition should make you feel pic.twitter.com/yvNL8dJadZ — 〄 diggy | ʎƃƃıp ッ (@LiteralEnigma) June 12, 2020
Morgan Kibby, one of the composer’s of the Chromatica II/911 transition recently spoke about the overwhelming reaction from fans in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.
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He said: “Chromatica II was the final piece we composed, and at that point it was clear to Gaga that it should fall right before 911, which was already complete. I remember this moment in the studio so clearly, because she lit up, and without any words I flipped the keyboard around, pulled up the string sound she was envisioning, and she started to play this amazing marcato idea. From there, we massaged it, and I focused on the harmonies and dynamics to make sure it amped the energy up.”
Morgan added: “Ultimately none of us had any idea people would embrace this small moment as such a highlight. It brings me so much joy that one of my favourite moments with her, personally, ended up being some of her fans’ favourites, musically.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Haircuts, Pubs And Holidays: The Full List Of What Will Open On July 4 In England

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Pubs, cinemas, restaurants and holiday accommodation in England will all be able to open from July 4 if they are “Covid-secure” under plans announced by Boris Johnson.
The prime minister is also relaxing coronavirus social distancing rules to allow a “one metre-plus” distance, with mitigations like face coverings or hand-washing when two metres is not possible, for example in indoor venues like cafes.
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Johnson has also announced plans to allow one household to meet another indoors while following social distancing guidance, with no limits on size and overnight stays allowed.
This will not be exclusive, so for example a household can meet one set of grandparents one day, and another set of grandparents on another occasion.
Current rules on being allowed to meet up to six different individuals in your back garden or park will be changed to allow two households of any size to meet outdoors.
Only two households will be able to meet indoors at venues like restaurants and pubs.
Indoor hospitality will also be limited to table service, while customers will have to provide contact details to enable the tracing and isolating of people if there is an outbreak linked to the venue.
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Gyms and leisure facilities will stay closed for now although culture secretary Oliver Dowden said the government had an “aspiration” to open them by mid-July.
A swathe of businesses will open under the biggest relaxation of lockdown since it was imposed three months ago, with government guidance replacing the draconian legislation that dictated the terms of the lockdown.
But there will be a review of all new rules on July 21 and if virus starts spreading exponentially the government will slam on the brakes.
Here is the full list of what can and can’t open.
Open from July 4:
Hotels, hostels, bed and breakfast accommodation, holiday apartments or homes, cottages or bungalows, campsites, caravan parks or boarding houses
Places of worship
Libraries
Community centres
Restaurants, cafes and work canteens
Bars
Pubs
Cinemas
Bingo halls
Theatres and concert halls (guidance dictates no live performances)
Museums and galleries
Hair salons and barbers
Outdoor playgrounds
Outdoor gyms
Funfairs, theme parks and adventure parks and activities
Amusement arcades
Outdoor skating rinks
Other indoor leisure centres or facilities, including indoor games, recreation and entertainment venues
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Social clubs
Model villages
Indoor attractions at aquariums, zoos, safari parks, farms, wildlife centres and any place where animals are exhibited to the public as an attraction
The following will remain closed by law:
Nightclubs
Casinos
Bowling alleys and indoor skating rinks
Indoor play areas including soft-play
Spas
Nail bars and beauty salons
Massage, tattoo and piercing parlours
Indoor fitness and dance studios, and indoor gyms and sports venues/facilities
Swimming pools and water parks


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Rebekah Vardy Launches Legal Proceedings Against Coleen Rooney Over 'Wagatha Christie' Saga

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Rebekah Vardy has launched legal proceedings for libel against Coleen Rooney over the so-called ‘Wagatha Christie’ saga.
The pair made headlines across the globe last year when Coleen alleged Rebekah’s Instagram account was the source of leaked stories about her private life in the press.
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Rebekah vehemently denied she was responsible for the leaks, and said the row had caused her to have severe anxiety attacks and hospitalised her on three occasions.
Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock
Court records have now indicated that Rebekah filed a libel claim with the High Court on 12 June.
In October 2019, Coleen – wife of footballer Wayne Rooney – posted a public statement on Twitter, in which she revealed that she’d blocked all but one of her Instagram followers, in a deliberate attempt to find out who had been leaking stories about her to the press.
After she ended the post with the line: “It’s… Rebekah Vardy’s account,” Rebekah issued a swift denial claiming that “various people” have access to her Instagram account.
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Coleen and Rebekah pictured together in 2016 Jean Catuffe via Getty Images
Rebekah, who is married to England player Jamie Vardy, later said an expert was working to discover who could have been behind the leaks.
No further details about Rebekah’s claim are available at this stage, and no date has been set for a court hearing.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Elizabeth Hurley Pays Tribute To ‘Sweet, Kind’ Ex-Partner Steve Bing Following His Death, Aged 55

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Elizabeth Hurley has paid tribute to her former partner Steve Bing, saying she will remember him as a “sweet, kind man”.
The Hollywood filmmaker, who dated the British model and actress for around 18 months in 2000 and 2001, was found dead in Los Angeles. on Monday.
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He was the father to Elizabeth’s 18-year-old son, Damian, and had a daughter with the former professional tennis player Lisa Bonder.
Sharing a gallery of photos of them as a couple on Instagram, Elizabeth wrote: “I am saddened beyond belief that my ex Steve is no longer with us. It is a terrible end.
“Our time together was very happy and I’m posting these pictures because although we went through some tough times, it’s the good, wonderful memories of a sweet, kind man that matter.
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“In the past year we had become close again. We last spoke on our son’s 18th birthday. This is devastating news and I thank everyone for their lovely messages.”
Damian also remembered his father on Instagram, writing: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone that has reached out following the devastating news.
“I’m trying to reply to as many of you as I can, but please know I will always remember your kindness. This is a very strange and confusing time and I’m immensely grateful to be surrounded by my phenomenal family and friends.”
Former US president Bill Clinton, a friend of the filmmaker, said “he had a big heart, and he was willing to do anything he could for the people and causes he believed in”.
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Bing donated money to Mr Clinton and was reportedly instrumental in helping the former president return two American reporters from North Korea in 2009.
I loved Steve Bing very much. He had a big heart, and he was willing to do anything he could for the people and causes he believed in. I will miss him and his enthusiasm more than I can say, and I hope he’s finally found peace. — Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) June 23, 2020
In his tribute, Mr Clinton said: “I loved Steve Bing very much. He had a big heart, and he was willing to do anything he could for the people and causes he believed in. I will miss him and his enthusiasm more than I can say, and I hope he’s finally found peace.”
Bing was known for his work on movies including Kangaroo Jack, which he co-wrote, and for financing films including The Polar Express, starring Tom Hanks.
Steve Bing Action Press/Shutterstock
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The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed it was investigating the death of a man in his 50s in the Century City area of Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County coroner said a man was pronounced dead at the scene at 1.10pm local time on Monday, and that identification was pending.
Bing is reported to have dropped out of Stanford university as an 18-year-old after he inherited 600 million dollars (about £481 million) from his grandfather, the real estate developer Leo S Bing.
Bing was was the founder of Shangri-La Entertainment, an organisation with interests in property, construction, entertainment and music.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Boris Johnson Cuts Two-Metre Social Distancing Rule To 'One Metre Plus'

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Boris Johnson has announced the two-metre social-distancing rule will be cut to one-metre, but only where another protection - such as face coverings - is possible.
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The new “one-metre plus” guidance on coronavirus for England was announced by the prime minister on Tuesday as he confirmed pubs, restaurants, museums and cinemas will be allowed to reopen from July 4.
It says people must stay two metres apart, but can come within one metre of each other from July 4 provided one “mitigation” is in place.
Among the protective measures listed were: a screen, facing away from each other, hand-washing, a face covering and minimising contact with others.
Johnson said the new rules will be reviewed on July 21 and if there is a resurgence of the disease, ministers could bring back some lockdown restrictions.
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He told MPs the number of new infections “is now declining by between 2% and 4% every day”.
Turning to cutting the two-metre rule, he added: “Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should.
“But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre-plus, meaning they should remain one metre apart while taking mitigations to reduce the risk of transmission.”
The move on social distancing follows intense pressure from some Tory MPs who have said easing the two-metre requirement is key to reopening the hard pressed hospitality sector in England.
Customers queue up for the reopening of stores in Windsor. KGC-247/STAR MAX/IPx
Many pubs and restaurants have warned that it would simply not be viable for them to operate on such terms and have underlined that the World Health Organisation’s guidance is one-metre.
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Johnson said every step in easing the lockdown has been “scrupulously weighed”.
He said: “We cannot lift all the restrictions at once so we have to make difficult judgments.
“And every step is scrupulously weighed against the evidence.”
He added: “Our principle is to trust the British public to use their common sense in the full knowledge of the risks, remembering that the more we open up, the more vigilant we will need to be.”
Detailed sector-by-sector guidance will be published for businesses – from hotels to hairdressers – on how to reopen in a Covid-secure manner.
It could mean introducing one-way systems, spaced queuing, increased ventilation, and pre-booked tickets to ensure people can return safely.
It has also been suggested venues could install perspex screens, altering seating arrangements and requiring the wearing of face coverings to mitigate the risk of spreading the disease as the rules are eased.
Customers at pubs and bars may have to sign guest books with their names and contact details so they could be traced if they come into contact with someone who is infected.
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Health secretary Matt Hancock said yesterday government was able to act because the numbers of new coronavirus cases, admissions to hospital, and deaths from the diseases were all continuing to fall.
He told the daily No. 10 briefing on Monday that just one-in-1,700 people were now estimated to be infected with the virus, compared to one-in-400 a month ago.
But some scientists have, however, expressed concern the government is moving too quickly, and that its track-and-trace system to contain any fresh outbreaks is not fully up and running.
Dr Jenny Harries, the deputy chief medical officer for England, said that even as the rules were eased people still needed to follow social distancing, including regular hand-washing and good respiratory hygiene.
“There is a critical point here that says just because life is feeling a bit more back to normal don’t suddenly jump to where you were this time last year. We need to learn to go forward with restrictions in our lives,” she said.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Two Households Of Any Size Will Be Allowed To Meet Inside, Announces Boris Johnson

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Two households of any size will be allowed to meet inside and stay overnight from July 4, Boris Johnson has announced.
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But the groups will still have to observe the rules on social distancing - which means hugging and physical contact between households will still be banned.
The new lockdown rules, which apply only to England, unveiled by the prime minister on Tuesday, do not limit the meetings to a fixed two households.
For example a household could meet with one other household for a meal at home or in a restaurant or pub on one weekend and another the following weekend.
It means a family could meet one set of grandparents one week then another set of grandparents on another occasion.
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Current rules allow groups of six people to meet in a garden or a park.
But the prime minister also announced today two households of any size will be allowed to meet outdoors.
Johnson also confirmed the two-metre social distancing rule will be relaxed to one-metre with people advised to take other precautions.
Among the protective measures listed were: a screen, facing away from each other, hand-washing, a face covering and minimising contact with others.
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Speaking in the Commons, the prime minister said the UK’s “long national hibernation is beginning to come to an end” as he revealed plans for the reopening of the hospitality industry.
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“Our principle is to trust the British public to use their common sense in the full knowledge of the risks, remembering that the more we open up, the more vigilant we will need to be,” he said.
“I’m acutely conscious that people will ask legitimate questions about why certain activities are allowed and others are not.
“And I must ask the House to understand that the virus has no interest in these debates, its only interest, its only ambition is to exploit any opportunities to recapture ground that we might carelessly vacate and to reinfect our communities.
“And so there is only one certainty – the fewer social contacts you have, the safer you will be.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--8 Tips For Recreating The Iconic Glastonbury Festival In Your Garden

Fiona Rees Glastonbury at home
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With Glastonbury cancelled because of the pandemic, one family based in Worcestershire decided to recreate the iconic festival in their garden.
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Fiona Rees, 50, her husband Matt, 43, and their 11-year-old son Dylan, are huge fans of the festival and were “gutted” when it was called off.
With the help of Fiona’s father, Colin Stent, 67, they built a Pyramid Stage, bar, camping area and toilet tent in their garden.
The family has attended five of the last six festivals. In lieu of it not taking place this year, they plan to have a few drinks and watch the streaming of previous years on BBC iPlayer.
“Being sat out there at night with the fire going, and watching it – it comes pretty close on the basis that we can’t go there,” Fiona told PA Media.
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Fiona Rees Glastonbury at home
Fiona posted photos of her at-home festival setup on Facebook and said she’s had people begging for a ticket to attend. “I’ve printed off some tickets and I’ve laminated them,” she said. “If you haven’t got a ticket, you aren’t coming in!”
Sarah Emberson, 44, is also encouraging people to celebrate Glastonbury at home, with the launch of Glasthomebury – where households up and down the country can be part of a virtual festival from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 June.
“Like everyone else, I was upset there would be no festivals this year, and as lockdown started and the coronavirus pandemic took hold, I wanted to create something to cheer people up and try to raise some money for people in need,” Emberson, who went to her first Glastonbury festival in 1992, tells HuffPost UK.
“I thought: why not just have us all camping out at home and we could watch music online or on the TV? It started slow but then suddenly went viral one day.”
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We’ve cued up some of Glastonbury’s greatest sets into this schedule for you.
📝Which 3 are you definitely going to catch?
And there’s more... as well as all this there will be 100 sets on iPlayer and even more on BBC Sounds, TV and Radio. #Glastonbury2020 pic.twitter.com/FFUagsbG2r — BBC Glastonbury (@bbcglasto) June 22, 2020
Emberson hopes to raise money for charities including Mind, NSPCC, NHS Charities Together, Refuge and the Trussell Trust in the process.
Up to 376,000 people (and counting) are expected to take part in Glasthomebury. “Its not because of me, it’s because of the love of Glastonbury Festival, it’s the undisputed best music festival in the world,” she adds.
How to create a festival at home
1. Make your tickets. This can be a fun task, especially if you have kids. Work on designing tickets, signs and other props to put up in the garden ahead of the event. Not feeling crafty? You can find a printable colour-in bunting, poster and wristband for the event here.
2. Implement a festival dress code. We’re talking shorts, wellies, face paint, glitter, feathers, tassels, tie-dye, and flower crowns. Just don’t forget your sun cream and hat (or parasol).
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3. Check out Pinterest for inspiration. Learn how to implement that festival feel in your garden through decor. Create a boho-themed seating area using a rug and scatter cushions, hang some fairy lights, fill a wheelbarrow with water and ice to keep your drinks cool, or make a DIY photo booth.
Leon Neal via Getty Images
4. Walk in your wellies. It’s a key part of the Glasto experience. This year you can take part in the festival ‘Welly Waddle’, where you walk five miles in wellies, donate £5 to Glasthomebury charities, and nominate five others to do the same.
5. Pitch your tent. Get the kids involved and put up your tent(s) ready for the mother of all sleepovers. Chuck in a few duvets and pillows to make it cosy.
OLI SCARFF via Getty Images
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6. Get your festival food ready. Glastonbury food stall holders are sharing food and drink recipes with Glasthomebury to bring the festival to life. Check out their recipes on Facebook later this week. Learn how to make The Cheese Truck cheese toasties, Anna Mae’s mac and cheese fries and Wholefood Heaven Mexican street food BBQ. There’s also a film from the Hare Krishnas showing how to make their famous curry.
7. Watch the show. BBC iPlayer will be streaming performances from previous years over the course of five days. You can also find a huge line-up of events including activities for kids, poetry readings, and DJ sets on the Glastonbury website. If you’d rather not watch performances during the day (when the sun is shining and it’s hard to see the laptop screen), get a Glastonbury playlist on the go.
Leon Neal via Getty Images
8. Document the experience. Make the event one to remember by taking photos and sharing on social media with #Glasthomebury. It’ll be a festival you’ll never forget, that’s for sure.
“Most people are really supportive and happy to join in this lovely shared experience,” says Emberson. “It’s really brought people together, cheered everyone up, and given us something to look forward to in what has been a really tough few months – we can’t go on holiday or to a real festival, but we can all go to Glasthomebury.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--UK TV & Film Stars Sign Open Letter Calling For Commitments To End Systemic Racism In Industry

Dear UK Film and TV Industry,
Having been inspired by the Black Film Collective who put together a powerful open letter to Hollywood last week on behalf of many brothers and sisters in the industry, we would like to send you something in collaboration with them, which we feel addresses our continuing issues with the UK industry.
This letter is from your colleagues in the UK - Black and Brown (inc. all Asians) independent producers, writers, directors and actors in alliance with many advocates for change. As one extended community, we require your active engagement to tackle structural and systemic racism in our industry, in the UK and around the world. While messages condemning racism and advocating for solidarity on social media may inspire hope, the UK Industry must put its money and practices where its mouth is. A direct line can be drawn from the stories and voices that are silenced and ignored, to the discrimination and biases that are pervasive in the entertainment industry and larger society. This moment in history presents an opportunity for you to be a positive partner for change.
Our aim is that this letter produces strategic commitments from you to reshape our industry into one whose words are supported by action. Toward that end:
1. Banish “Your Weak Excuses”
Banish “it’s too small” from your lexicon. It is insulting to our stories, our history, our impact on world culture, and our worth. Our stories are referred to as “too small” because they do not centre around white characters or a small subset of actors whom you deem valuable; they are not always written by the same white writers that you deem to be “safe”. Banish “we already have a diverse project on our slate”. There is room for more than one. You make countless projects with similar themes and storylines with white creatives. Banish “that feels risky”. We know we are introducing you to new unproven talent, but why is the same white man (who has made a string of flops after his one hit 10 years ago) still deemed less risky than a new Brown or Black writer with original and well written ideas. We know that many of our stories feel unfamiliar to you because they go against your preconceived notions of us and make you step outside your familiar world. But they are familiar to us. Hire us and together let us tell truthful, bold and imaginative stories from rich new perspectives. There are countless men and women in the streets right now, putting their lives, health, and livelihoods on the line, fighting for an end to systemic racism. There will be no end until financiers, distributors and the community of decision-makers cease this practice of marginalising our voices and our stories. If Black lives matter to you, our stories and the scale on which they are marketed and distributed must as well.
2. Empower Black and Brown Independent Producers
Hiring Black and Brown writers and directors is of course of great importance, but rarely is this opportunity given to Black and Brown independent producers. Only 5% of the producers supported by the BFI in 2018/19 were producers of colour. This is especially troubling because producers often work with multiple writers and directors. Supporting one producer effectively supports many Black and Brown professionals above and below the line. Take a deeper look at the community of Black and Brown independent producers, working hand in hand with talented directors. Many have compelling slates of projects in need of willing partners. There hasn’t been a Black/Brown producer on Variety’s “10 Producers to Watch” list since 2017. We don’t mean to point the finger solely at Variety, because similar lists are printed in various trades. In addition, they all seek recommendations from agencies, management companies, and elite publicists. So this incredibly valuable publicity is often limited to advancing the careers of those who need publicity the least. Empower those that need it the most.
3. Expand Your Vision
Think outside the box when looking for new talent. There are numerous diversity schemes out there, which is a good start and we support them all. But we need more sustained endorsement. Empower those that come through those schemes. Let us look at making sure those graduates stay in the industry and are nurtured and promoted so that they become the decision makers and help create change. Until we are in positions of power nothing will really change.
4. Be More Demanding
Actors, managers and agents must become more demanding about the teams behind the camera. If there are no Black producers, no Brown DOPs, no diverse department heads, you must speak up and challenge. To agents, be proactive in asking on behalf of your clients. Look at your rosters too. Who do you represent? How diverse are they? Without your vocal support, we will continue to be largely shut out of this industry and it is not for lack of excellence. It is for lack of will on the part of producers, network executives and studio heads. It is that simple.
We challenge you to become willing partners in this crucial endeavour. If the full spectrum of our experiences are not produced, marketed and celebrated with some regularity then you are actively denying our humanity and our history. Our stories and experiences can no longer be limited to being backdrops for white narratives and protagonists. Until we are able to show our FULL joy, grief, fear, history, pride and all the other myriad of emotions and experiences, then you are simply upholding the status quo and enabling a society that keeps white people comfortable in their racism and Black and Brown people perpetually dehumanised. Until we are allowed to make mistakes and try again like many of our white counterparts, we will never succeed in the same way. You are a large part of the problem and it is time to be honest about it. For far too long, the images on our screens have projected lies and partial truths when it comes to our lives and history, minimising our perceived value and creating ripple effects throughout society.
This letter is in defence of all Black and Brown creative artists and the communities they come from. It is in defence of the millions of lives that have gone unrecorded. It is in defence of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Belly Mujinga, Trayvon Martin, Stephen Lawrence, Zahid Mubarek, Mark Duggan, Sarah Reed, the Black and Brown health professionals who have died from Covid-19, and so many other lives senselessly and tragically cut short.
Your messages in support of Black Lives Matter are a first step. But after decades of enabling racism in your ranks and beyond, it is time to do more. If Black lives really matter to you, our stories must as well. Please help us tell the whole truth. Black and Brown lives all over the world depend on it.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Nigel Havers' Home Couldn't Be More Nigel Havers If It Tried And Twitter Can’t Get Enough Of It

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One thing – possibly the only thing – lockdown has gifted us with is the chance to have a glimpse inside the homes of celebs when they’re being interviewed on Zoom.
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But while most stars have perched themselves in front of shelf upon shelf of books or a carefully curated selection of home decor, we think Nigel Havers has trumped everyone.
The 68-year-old actor was interviewed from the drawing room (!!) of his home on Tuesday’s Good Morning Britain – and it was exactly how you’d imagine Nigel Havers’ home to look.
Walls crammed with oil paintings? Check.
Wood panelling? Present and correct.
Far too many lamps? One can never have too many lamps.
Heaving cocktail trolley? Don’t mind if we do.
And while the rest of us were still eating our cornflakes in our PJs, not so for Nigel – who upped the ante even further by donning a roll neck jumper and smart blue blazer.
At 8am.
Spiffing.
Twitter was so impressed that the The Chariots Of Fire star’s name began trending…
Nigel Havers looking spiffing at 8:13am on GMB, sitting in his drawing room, soft lighting, roll neck, a whiff of Joop. Primed, locked & loaded , ready to bang your Mam. pic.twitter.com/a3Nzhd7Ajt — Craig Corny (@CraigShitpeas) June 23, 2020
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Nigel Havers knocking it out the park with the battle of who has the best background on video call. pic.twitter.com/2PqwoB7Zlg — Keith R (@TheHornyHaggis) June 23, 2020
Nigel Havers here, self isolating in 1788 pic.twitter.com/PdzH9lY0nJ — Cants (@cantsey) June 23, 2020
Nigel Havers Room is exactly how you imagined it would be - Beats all those other Rooms with the IKEA Billy Bookcases 🤣 pic.twitter.com/usm7PwvM6l — Dave Irons (@David_Irons65) June 23, 2020
Is Nigel Havers shacking up at Buckingham Palace? 🤔 #GMB — Georgia 👸 Queen G 🇬🇧🙈🙉🙊 (@gspvfc) June 23, 2020
It's always cocktail o'clock at Nigel Havers' pad. pic.twitter.com/q8YkngE5ms — Not Withnail (@notwithnail) June 23, 2020
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Absolutely loving Nigel Havers’ OTT aristocratic video background compared to his unimpressed fellow theatre buddies pic.twitter.com/nFPjrabz6r — Charlotte (@chazza_dee) June 23, 2020
Nigel Havers lives at the Palace of Versailles pic.twitter.com/cbD0hRPAYP — MrPaulRobinson (@MrPaulRobinson) June 23, 2020
I think Nigel Havers is using one of those fake backgrounds on zoom! 😂😂😂 @GMB pic.twitter.com/7xmBshw22p — Nicola Jane Williams (@nickyn00dle1987) June 23, 2020
What I like most about this is that it makes it look like Nigel Havers has an oil painting of the ITV logo. pic.twitter.com/dUkCPFFopR — Jon ‘Stay In Your’ Holmes (@jonholmes1) June 23, 2020


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Oxford University: 12 Colleges Take In Five Or Fewer Black Undergraduates In Three Years

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The number of Black students attending Oxford University has increased, but figures show that in 12 of its colleges only five or fewer Black undergraduates have been recruited over three years.
The proportion of British students from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds admitted to Oxford last year increased to more than a fifth (22.1%) – up from 18.3% the previous year, statistics show.
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More students with Black African or Black Caribbean heritage (3.2%) were awarded places last year – compared to 2.6% in 2018, but the number admitted to some Oxford colleges and courses remains low.
Between 2017–2019, there were five or fewer Black UK-domiciled students on 13 of Oxford’s largest courses.
Over the three years, there was one Black student admitted to biology, two for history and politics and none for geography, according to the university’s Undergraduate Admissions Report.
In 12 of Oxford’s colleges, five or fewer British Black students were recruited over the same period.
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At the beginning of June, HuffPost UK revealed that the University of Oxford delayed publishing admissions data on the diversity of its students in light of “world events”.
The death of George Floyd, a handcuffed Black man who died after pleading for air as a white police officer knelt on his neck, has sparked Black Lives Matter protests around the world.
The movement has increased pressure on universities to decolonise the curriculum, tackle racism and boost diversity on campus.
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Earlier this month, staff members at Oxford were notified about the delay in data in an internal email in where university heads said they “feel strongly that this is not the right time to share our data”.
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This new data comes as the BBC reported public school Eton College had apologised to Nigerian writer Dillibe Onyeama for the racism he experienced while a student there in the 1960s.
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Eton headmaster Simon Henderson told the broadcaster he was “appalled” at that treatment of Onyeama, adding the school had “made significant strides since” but had more to do.
Last week, the governing body of Oxford’s Oriel college “expressed their wish” to remove a statue of British imperialist Cecil Rhodes, following fresh protests.
At Oriel College, six Black UK students were admitted between 2017-2019.
Professor Louise Richardson, vice-chancellor of Oxford University, said: “The data presented clearly demonstrates steady progress towards diversifying the make-up of our student body.”
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The report also shows applying to Oxford is more competitive than ever, with 23,020 students applying for just 3,300 undergraduate places. In 2019, almost four in five places (2,586) went to UK students.
It comes as the university shares its plans to expand online resources and to run widening access programmes virtually amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
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UNIQ, the university’s flagship state school access programme, will run exclusively online this year – and Target Oxbridge, the scheme which helps Black students with Oxford applications, will also go online.
Dr Samina Khan, director of undergraduate admissions and outreach at Oxford University, said: “Expanding our digital resources has been a major priority for the university in recent weeks.
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“Many young people are in the process of making important decisions about their higher education future in the midst of a crisis, and I think it would be deeply unfair for talented students of all backgrounds to lose sight of their ambitions because of the education disruption caused during this time.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Trump Baselessly Accuses Obama Of ‘Treason’

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Donald Trump accused former US president Barack Obama of “treason” without evidence on Monday, again attempting to recast an investigation into the 2016 Trump campaign’s ties to Russia as an effort by Obama to spy on him.
In an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network, Trump levied specific charges against his predecessor for the first time. There is no evidence that the Obama White House was involved in an FBI investigation into Trump aides’ ties to Russia during the 2016 campaign, which later grew into special counsel Robert Mueller’s inquiry.
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“Treason. It’s treason,” Trump told CBN’s David Brody. “Look, when I came out a long time ago, I said they’ve been spying on my campaign, I said they’ve been taping...”
“Turns out I was right,” the president continued. “Let’s see what happens to them now.”
EXCLUSIVE: President Trump on what crime President Obama would have been potentially committing regarding the previous administration spying on his campaign: "Treason. It’s treason." Watch the explosive clip from my White House interview with @realDonaldTrump @POTUS @WhiteHouse pic.twitter.com/IFui3fNigS — David Brody (@DavidBrodyCBN) June 22, 2020
Trump said later in the CBN interview that if similar crimes had been committed “100 years ago, or 50 years ago, they would have been executed.”
“We’re in a different time. You understand what I mean by that. They spied on the opposing party’s campaign, and we caught them,” he said. “I just hope I get tremendous evangelical Christian support.”
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An independent report by the Justice Department found that, at the end of last year, the FBI’s initial investigation was opened properly and was acted upon without political bias, undercutting the Trump administration’s claims that it was a conspiracy. The report did find that the probe was rushed and had errors in how the agency handled some documents.
But, despite those findings, Trump has continued to cast blame on the Obama administration even as his first four-year term comes to its conclusion. This year, the president has routinely blasted his predecessor for a bevvy of unspecified crimes he’s labelled “Obamagate,” although it’s unclear what impropriety he’s referencing other than using a catchphrase to try to score political points.
Trump had until Monday resisted accusing Obama of an actual crime. When asked about his accusations by a Washington Post reporter last month, the president shot back: “You know what the crime is. The crime is very obvious to everybody. All you have to do is read the newspapers, except yours.”
“It’s been going on for a long time,” Trump added then.
Attorney General William Barr appointed John Durham, a federal prosecutor, to investigate the origins of the Russia investigation more than a year ago amid ongoing demands from the White House.
“I think spying on a political campaign is a big deal,” Barr told senators at the time. “I think spying did occur.”
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However, last month Barr said that neither Obama nor former Vice President Joe Biden were under scrutiny in Durham’s investigation.
“I don’t expect Mr Durham’s work will lead to a criminal investigation of either man,” the attorney general said. “Our concern over potential criminality is focused on others.”
Obama has largely avoided public bickering with Trump. Shortly after the president shared a series of “Obamagate” missives on Twitter, Obama offered a terse reply.
“Vote.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Jennifer Aniston And Lisa Kudrow Dish Hilarious Memories From Filming Friends

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Make the most of your time indoors with a daily dose of celebrity news and guides to the best shows. Sign up to the entertainment newsletter.
This is the one where Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow dish about their best memories filming Friends.
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The pair teamed up for Variety’s Actors On Actors series on Monday, catching up virtually to discuss the ’90s sitcom’s upcoming reunion special, indulge in some throwbacks and even spill about watching the show while at home in isolation.
“I love stumbling on a Friends episode. This one time I was with Courteney [Cox], and we were trying to find something to reference, an old Friends thing. And then we stumbled on — there’s bloopers online — and we sat there at the computer like two nerds watching these bloopers laughing at ourselves,” Jennifer said.
“I’ve done it, too. I’ve done that, hours watching bloopers,” Lisa said.
Lisa Kudrow and Jennifer Aniston shared hilarious memories of their time on Friends Variety
And it turns out Jennifer was laughing just as hard as everybody else in Season 7, Episode 15, where Ross (David Schwimmer) learns the bagpipes.
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“Where you started to sing full 100% sounding like the bagpipe — I couldn’t hold it together. No one could hold it together,” Jennifer laughed, sending Lisa into a coughing fit.
They also recalled taking 45 minutes to film one scene from The One With The Videotape because the cast couldn’t stop laughing.
In February, Friends fans were over the moon when it was announced that the whole gang ― Jennifer, Lisa, Courteney, David, Matthew Perry and Matt Le Blanc ― would reunite for an unscripted special almost 16 years after the last episode of the show aired.
The HBO Max special, which was supposed to be filmed in front of a live studio audience in March, has been tentatively pushed back to August barring a second wave of coronavirus infections.
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Jennifer said she expects it will “be really fun ... if we ever get out of quarantine, get to do our reunion show,” although she’s not sure how exactly it will play out.
“I can’t wait to do that. I really can’t wait to do that,” Lisa replied. “We don’t know everything about it, we need to say. I think we’re meant to be surprised by some things as well.”
Check out the full conversation below...


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--'Walk Of Shame': Deflated Trump's Lonely Helicopter Walk Becomes Biting New Meme

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Donald Trump’s walk back to the White House from Marine One after his disappointing Saturday night rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, presented an image very different from the one he usually projects.
The rally was meant to restart his 2020 reelection campaign, stalled since the coronavirus pandemic shut down most large gatherings.
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But the crowd that turned out was much smaller than anticipated, and Trump returned to the White House with an open shirt and an undone necktie as he clutched one of his campaign’s signature red caps.
On Twitter, critics said Trump looked dejected ― and some even added music to the moment:
I fixed it!! I’m💀 🤣😂 Trump Returning home after his disappointing Rally! Cover, Foreigner - 'I Want To Know What Love Is' (SOUND UP) pic.twitter.com/n18LRatRap — Just Vent (@JustVent6) June 21, 2020
This is the look of defeat.
This is the true #WalkofShame.
This is glorious to see. pic.twitter.com/J8SHhzp3O3 — Devin Nunes Mom (@NotDevinsMom) June 21, 2020
The walk of shame. pic.twitter.com/u0GRFnnKeY — The Lincoln Project (@ProjectLincoln) June 21, 2020
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This song has so many uses pic.twitter.com/PkfG80CaYL — Comfortably Numb🏠 (@YGalanter) June 21, 2020
Disheveled, defeated, humiliated. His pathetic dog and pony show of racism, xenophobia, corruption and lies is getting old; he was undermined, outclassed and embarrassed by teenagers across the nation who coordinated mass purchases of tickets. Bad night for him and his cult! — Fátima Ptacek (@FatimaPtacek) June 21, 2020
There’s a drag in his stagger
A teeter in his totter
A hitch in his giddyup
A gig in his rigmarole
A ruffle in his shuffle
And an amble in his shamble.#WalkofShame pic.twitter.com/7wmB9a94sz — Bleeding Heart Liberal Marine (@zaharako) June 21, 2020
People heading for the 7 Train after a 12-1 loss at citi field pic.twitter.com/03DwK2Hv9U — Richard Staff (@Staff7998) June 21, 2020
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This turned out almost too tragic to post. I'm very very sorry @realDonaldTrump #EverybodyHurts pic.twitter.com/d3nlAL1WAT — Krister Johnson (@KristerJohnson) June 21, 2020
Think about this:
Trump looks worse coming off of Marine One after one poorly attended rally than he's looked at any point during this pandemic or economic crisis.
He doesn't care about you, #MAGA.
He just doesn't.#EveryonesLaughingAtYouDonaldpic.twitter.com/UIE3s1LJYv — Holly Figueroa O'Reilly (@AynRandPaulRyan) June 21, 2020
This one is my favorite so far. pic.twitter.com/GfoZGkn7pY — Rick Wilson (@TheRickWilson) June 21, 2020
“I just want to cry in MyPillow.” — The Hoarse Whisperer (@HoarseWisperer) June 22, 2020
A liitle mood music for Bunker Boy Trump who risked 6,200 people's lives hope a Klan rally would lift his changes and his dangerous emotional state
via
pic.twitter.com/aZX127y6BI — ☇RiotWomenn☇ (@riotwomennn) June 21, 2020
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Walking into work Monday morning like pic.twitter.com/erfDFiPW5z — Sam Clench (@SamClench) June 21, 2020
Dear @MerriamWebster , I have found your 2020 pictorial selection for the word "defeated" — Mike Peerson (@Mikepeerson) June 21, 2020
Wow. Look at this. I've never seen this look from Trump. Dejected. Broken. Small. Wounded.
Chime in - what do you see? https://t.co/YgsZe68lQ1 — MadDogPAC (@maddogpac) June 21, 2020
...quick drawing today to celebrate the Impeached *president’s post Tulsa WALK OF SHAME last night...
Disclaimer: I drew this super fast...not worth spending quality time on it.
Charcoal/pastels drawing #TulsaFlop #TrumpsCoronavirusRally #TulsaRallyFail #TrumpRallyFail pic.twitter.com/2qBFoJtVL7 — Jon Lion Fine Art 😷✊🏽 (@jonlionfineart2) June 21, 2020
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--My Pride Anthems: Adele Roberts And Kate Holderness

The coronavirus pandemic has changed everything, and that includes how we’re all celebrating Pride in 2020.
With huge public gatherings out of the question, we’re asking a range of LGBTQ celebrities and allies for their personal Pride anthems, to help us all get into the Pride spirit from lockdown.
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Radio 1 presenter Adele Roberts and actress Kate Holderness are the latest stars to share their personal Pride month playlists, making them the first couple we’ve spoken to for our My Pride Anthems series.
Adele Roberts
Among the Pride anthems they’ve chosen are the song that reminds them of their very first date, an offering from “Lesbian Jesus” and a track Kate describes as a “rallying cry to gays”...
Kylie Minogue – Your Disco Needs You
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Adele: This was the first song on Kate’s list, and it always reminds me of Kate, and it just makes me so excited whenever it comes on.
Kate: It’s just a gay banger, and I don’t think you can get to any Pride in the country without this being played at least once.
Adele: It’s like at Christmas, you know with Last Christmas when people play Wham-ageddon? We should do Kylie-geddon at Pride, and the first time you hear Your Disco Needs You, you’re out.
Kate: Or you’re ooooout! I feel like this song is like a rallying cry to gays. When I was younger, and I used to go out in Preston with my best friend Paul to the one gay bar that we had, if there was ever a weekend when I couldn’t be arsed going out, he used to ring me and tell me ‘your disco needs you’.
Hayley Kiyoko and Kehlani – What I Need
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Adele: We supported this song at Radio 1 – and I just want to big up the music team at Radio 1, because they are so brilliant in terms of making sure we have diverse music.
This song from “Lesbian Jesus” Hayley Kiyoko and Kehlani was my Tune Of The Week, and Hayley came in to see us, and she was just so fabulous, so out and so proud, and it’s so good for me to have artists like that come in, be themselves. And then when you see the video that Hayley actually directed herself – she can act, she can direct, she can sing – the video is two women in a relationship, just being normal. And I think it’s so important for young people to see that. Big up Hayley Kiyoko.
For me personally, I don’t think I had [LGBTQ] role models growing up, so I was frightened for a long time of coming out, because I thought I was weird, I didn’t realise I was normal. So I hope Hayley can be that person for the youth of today.
Kate: The video is kind of old school, it’s like an old-style love story, but seeing two girls in that situation, it would have been amazing for me when I was growing up.
Brainstorm – Lovin’ Is Really My Game
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Kate: Would you say this was our song?
Adele: Yeah
Kate: On our first date, we went on a date to the cinema in the Trafford Centre...
Adele: I paid, I was the gentleman.
Kate: And on the way there, we were talking about music, and I think I had a cassette player in my car, and I had this song on my cassette player. And Adele said ‘oh my god, I’ve never met anyone else who’s heard this song before’, and I was like ‘neither have I’. So we took that as a sign that we were going to be together forever. And when we got to the Trafford Centre, you walk in through Selfridges, and this song was playing in there.
Adele: It was so weird… but this is a banger, and it just makes us want to dance. You know, like, when you’re young and you’re at the school disco and you just let yourself go? That’s how it makes us feel.
Deborah Cox – Nobody’s Supposed To Be Here (Dance Mix)
Adele: Kate introduced me to this song at a club night in Blackpool called Fluffy Puppy. And we’ve picked the dance mix, there’s an R&B version which is great, but the dance version is the one. Over to you, Kate…
Kate: This is an absolute banger... It just gets played in, well, I thought, all gay clubs, but definitely in Preston and Blackpool when I was first going out. And I thought it was a gay anthem, because it just used to get hammered in those clubs. But I don’t know if it is, I don’t know if anywhere else actually plays it.
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But listen to it, you will love it. This is the song that I will annoy any DJ to play at Pride, and it’s the song that if I’m ever in a mood, I can’t not be happy when I listen to this song, it’s a tune. But also, Adele taught me that there’s an original version of this song, like a slow version…
Adele: Yeah, I knew the R&B version, it’s all about not really wanting to let someone into your life… and this song is about accepting someone, and going ‘it’s OK, love’s alright’, so it’s kind of got a really cool message, as well. Especially for gay people.
Village People – Go West
Kate: So, this is the biggest gay song, I think. First of all, it’s on the Priscilla Queen Of The Desert soundtrack, so it gets extra gay points. And I think this song just makes me really emotional, but in a happy way.
It’s just quite hopeful, and in the lyrics, they’re saying ‘let’s go and find somewhere we can be together’, and when you hear this song in a gay club and you look around at everybody, it just kind of unites everyone, and makes you hopeful that one day we’ll find a place in the world where everyone can be themselves.
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Adele: One of the first times we went to Pride In London, we were in Piccadilly Circus, and you couldn’t see the end of the people. Pride is so colourful and so loud, everybody’s being themselves, and even tourists just get sucked in and join in, whether they’re straight, gay, bi, it doesn’t matter, it just brings everybody together. And that’s how this song feels to me.
And we just wanted to big up some football fans as well. So, one year, Pride In London coincided with the England football match, when they were playing Sweden. There were about 100 England fans all in their strips walking through Trafalgar Square to get to the bar where they were going to match the match. And I think the media would have you believe that potentially there might be a bit of trouble or whatever, but those fans walked through singing Three Lions, and all the gay people joined in…
Kate: ...waving their rainbow flags, it was such an amazing moment, and that’s what I think Go West feels like. It feels like a perfect moment, it feels like a perfect place, and that’s what Pride feels like.
Adele: Amen.
Kate: And the Village People were so ahead of their time. That was a time when people couldn’t be out and proud. And there they were on TV… and Muggles didn’t know…
Adele: ...but the gays did! So big up to them for that.
Kate: And such a diverse band, as well. What a load of legends.
Adele Roberts hosts the early breakfast show on BBC Radio 1 from 4am on weekdays.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-06-23--Hollywood Stars Pay Tribute To Joel Schumacher Following Director’s Death, Aged 80

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Kiefer Sutherland and Corey Feldman have led the tributes to director Joel Schumacher following his death at the age of 80 after a year-long battle with cancer.
Schumacher emerged during the 1980s, earning acclaim for hit movies including St Elmo’s Fire and The Lost Boys.
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Joel Schumacher Walter Weissman/STAR MAX/IPx
Famously, he took over the Batman franchise from Tim Burton, directing 1995’s Batman Forever starring Val Kilmer and 1997’s Batman & Robin, George Clooney’s much-derided outing as the Dark Knight.
Following Schumacher’s death in New York on Monday, tributes flowed from across the entertainment industry.
Kiefer Sutherland (L) and Joel Schumacher Eugene Gologursky via Getty Images
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Sutherland, who starred in vampire movie The Lost Boys, described Schumacher as one of his “dearest friends and partners in filmmaking”.
He added: “His mark on modern culture and film will live on forever.”
Feldman also starred in The Lost Boys and was a Hollywood rising star before his career was derailed by addiction issues.
In several tweets, Feldman told how the sober Schumacher tried to stop him doing drugs on set, firing him after noticing he was high.
“He tried to prevent my descent,” Feldman wrote.
Jim Carrey starred in Batman Forever as supervillain The Riddler.
Carrey said of Schumacher: “He saw deeper things in me than most and he lived a wonderfully creative and heroic life. I am grateful to have had him as a friend.”
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Joel Schumacher has passed away. He saw deeper things in me than most and he lived a wonderfully creative and heroic life. I am grateful to have had him as a friend. pic.twitter.com/7kOeJ96rL8 — Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) June 22, 2020
Minnie Driver worked with Schumacher on his adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical The Phantom Of The Opera.
She described him as “the funniest, chicest, most hilarious director I ever worked with”.
Driver added: “Once, on set, an actress was complaining about me within earshot; how I was dreadfully over the top (I was) Joel barely looked up from his NYT + said ‘Oh Honey, no one ever paid to see under the top’.”
#JoelSchumacher was the funniest, chicest, most hilarious director I ever worked with. Once,on set,an actress was complaining about me within earshot; how I was dreadfully over the top (I was)Joel barely looked up from his NYT+said “Oh Honey,no one ever paid to see under the top” — Minnie Driver (@driverminnie) June 23, 2020
Comedian Kevin Smith also paid tribute.
He tweeted: “I met him on the set of the ill-fated Batman & Robin and he couldn’t have been nicer or more hospitable (and the man looooved to gossip).”
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Actor Billy Eichner praised Schumacher for being a “very outspoken gay director before that was cool,” adding: “And his movies are a throwback to a time when Hollywood made something other than bloated action films or Oscar bait homework assignments. RIP Joel. I’m glad you had fun.”
RIP Joel Schumacher. I love St Elmo’s Fire. He was a (very) outspoken gay director before that was cool and his movies are a throwback to a time when Hollywood made something other than bloated action films or Oscar bait homework assignments. RIP Joel. I’m glad you had fun. — billy eichner (@billyeichner) June 22, 2020
Schumacher also directed the thrillers Tigerland and Phone Booth.
His most recent film was the 2011 crime thriller Trespass, which starred Nicholas Cage and Nicole Kidman.