Table of contents for Issue 1089 in Closer

Next week will mark a year since Prince Harry’s memoir, Spare, dropped a bombshell on the monarchy. But many have questioned why Meghan Markle - who has had no qualms in publicly slating the Royal Family to the world - hasn’t released her own explosive tell-all. While in November she appeared to have been pipped at the post by her alleged “cheerleader”, royal author Omid Scobie, his book, Endgame, backfired spectacularly for the Sussexes when questions were raised as to why they hadn’t denounced the book - which has been labelled as a “gratuitous” attack on Kate Middleton. The allegations in the book accuse the Royal Family of treating Kate, who will celebrate her 42nd birthday next week, like a child, and Scobie labels her as a “Stepford-like royal” and…

Jade Gani has been single and using dating apps for almost seven years. In that time, she’s been ghosted, stood up and - terrifyingly - stalked. Now she’s taking matters into her own hands and doing her best to check out potential suitors before she meets them. Jade does a reverse image search, Googles them extensively and checks social media - and she’s joined Facebook group “Are We Dating The Same Guy?”, which posts pictures of men to warn other women off. The movement started in New York in 2022 and has spread internationally. The London group alone has 80,000 members. BLOCKED Jade, 33, who’s a lawyer from Bracknell, says, “Dating these days can be soul destroying. Men on the apps treat you as a disposable commodity. It’s made me…

She found fame on The XFactor in 2009 and insiders say that Stacey Solomon - who has since forged a new path as a TV presenter and social media influencer - is now tempted to get back to her singing roots. After fans applauded her rendition of Somewhere Over The Rainbow - which she performed at her grandma’s 95th birthday in December - Stacey’s seriously considering returning to the music world, but is torn over the idea after negative experiences in the past. Our source says, “Stacey loved the reaction from fans after her grandma’s birthday and she’s had some interesting offers from the music industry. She’s tempted, but there’s a lot to consider.” After reaching the final of The X Factor, Stacey, 34, pursued her music career. But it…

Social Al (artificial intelligence) is expected to become a growing presence in society, with demand for digital health technologies predicted to rise to £165 billion in 2026. And a recent survey revealed that one in 10 Brits use, or would like to use, Al bots for sexual purposes. Ivana Bartoletti, Global Chief Privacy Officer at Wipro and co-founder of Women in Al, says, “There is potential in Al to help loneliness, especially in fighting stigma. A lot of people are reluctant to reach out for help and machines could actually be programmed to encourage people to seek help. There is also the possibility that these machines could be used as a diagnostic tool, but it’s not without risks; privacy and extreme answers, for example.”…

Capricorn 22 DEC - 19 JAN RELEASE MONEY FEARS LOVE: It’s hard for you to think about romance when you have so many responsibilities. That’s not so say you can’t find and enjoy love this year, but you need to expect good things to attract good things. MONEY: This is the start of a long cycle for you where you need to ditch any negative stories you have around money. Work out where fears you have around cash came from. Process and release. CAREER: As much as you need to work hard, make sure you balance that out with time with family and friends, as that’s where happiness lies for you in 2024. Aries 21 MAR - 19 APR MASSIVE CHANGES AHEAD LOVE: March, April and October are pivotal times…

AGE-PROOF YOUR SPINE Every morning, Dr Mosley and his wife, Dr Clare Bailey, switch on the radio and do a short series of pressups and squats. “You probably won’t want to do them,” he acknowledges, “but after 30 you’ll be losing 1-5 per cent of your muscle mass every decade, unless you do resistance exercise. It’s really important! The squat works the biggest muscles in your body - those in your bottom and thighs - and the press-up is very good for your spine and upper body. I recently had a scan on my spine and although I’m 66, I have the spine of a 30-year-old. That’s mainly because I do press-ups.” And the benefits don’t stop there - research suggests this workout is great for your mind too. The…

INSIDE DAISY’S FRIDGE • Eggs • Honey • Tomato ketchup • Mayonnaise • Chocolate • Chutney • Pickles • Gherkins • Jam • BBQ sauce • Avocado • Blueberries • Strawberries • Cucumber • Houmous • Natural yoghurt • Cheddar cheese • Tomatoes • Carrots • Lettuce • Gin and tonic • Semi-skimmed milk • Oat milk DAISY How much do you spend? Around £45 per week, which varies if I’m buying a nice bottle of wine or something. I generally do my essential shopping at Aldi, I love the middle aisle; I’m always coming back with random things. I also get some bits from Waitrose and Morrisons too. Describe your daily diet… I know it’s bad but if I’m having an early start, I’ll skip breakfast. If I’m organised,…

FAMILY MATTERS HELP YOUR KIDS FIND A HOBBY You’ve made a New Year’s resolution, but what about the kids? Get them out and doing something fun, interesting or active Suggesting hobbies to kids can feel slightly pressurised, so be mindful of the language and tone you use. For them to feel motivated, explain the benefits. That might be to meet more friends outside of school, or to all do something together as a family. Encourage your child - don’t push them. Lots of classes and clubs offer a free taster session, so take advantage of that. As a kid, I tried all sorts. They didn’t all last, but trying them made me realise what I did enjoy. The right hobby gives kids a sense of purpose, which boosts self-confidence. It…

AFFORDABLE TREATS! GET HER LOOK HAILEY BIEBER Girl boss Hailey never fails to inspire us. She’s opted for the ’80s power-dressing trend with her XL shoulder pads, while keeping things simple underneath with a V-neck jumper and mini skirt. She paired the look with sheer tights and block-heeled ballet shoes for an effortlessly cool finish. IN THE NEWS… IN THE NEWS - F&F ACTIVE Activewear has become an everyday trend, and F&F at Tesco has re-vamped its ACTIVE collection with function as well as fashion in mind. It features two core trends: classic activewear and a lifestyle capsule, incorporating sports-luxe into everyday life. The collection includes squat-proof co-ords, cosy hoodies, practical jackets and elevated basics in calming neutrals and monochrome tones. Made using the same materials as other premium sports…

FIGHT FLYAWAYS This wand is all you need to achieve super-slicked- back locks that will stay in place for your Pilates class and beyond. The serum-based formula lasts all day without leaving your hair feeling greasy, stiff, or dirty. SMOOTH OPERATOR This setting powder gives you the smooth, mattified skin of your dreams without any creasing We’d recommend sweeping it on with the brand’s Velvet Powder Puff to make application easy. COMPLEXION CALMER For long-wearing coverage, try this crease-resistant concealer. It has a hydrating finish that’s so lightweight, you won’t even feel like you have make-up on. MASK MATE To lock hydration into your pout, a powerhouse lip mask is a must. This nourishing formula does just the trick helping to keep smackers soft and plump. RUNPROOF PEEPERS Since this…

Tom Brittney, 33, plays vicar Will… How’s Will doing? He and Bonnie couldn’t be happier, they’re about to have a baby. But he’s struggling a bit with disciplining his stepson, Ernie. Are you and Robson pals? We’re best friends. The age difference doesn’t exist when we’re together - we’re both children just messing about on set. I go to his house sometimes for a sleepover; we watch Jackass and eat sweets. I love it and I hope we’ll always make that effort.…

1. These terms and conditions together with any specific rules displayed or referred to on the relevant page of Closer magazine in respect of a prize draw or competition (a “Prize Draw Notice”) and H Bauer Publishing’s General Terms and Conditions (available online at http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html) are the prize draw rules (the “Rules”) that apply to each and every prize draw and/or competition of any nature included in Closer magazine (a “Prize Draw”) unless otherwise expressly stated in the Prize Draw Notice. By entering a Prize Draw, entrants agree to be bound by these Rules. 2. Each Prize Draw is organised by Closer magazine, part of H Bauer Publishing Limited of registered address Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA. In the event of a discrepancy between these…

She ended 2023 with a bang, as the loved-up star enjoyed the festive season with her new beau, Dave Ryan, after wrapping-up another hugely successful year of hit performances. Last month, a glowing Sheridan Smith, 42, vowed, “I had a bit of a moment - but now I’m back,” as she reflected on hitting rock bottom following the death of her beloved dad, Colin, in 2016. OVERCOMING TRAUMA And friends say the BAFTAwinning star - who’s mum to three-year-old son Billy - is hell-bent on putting the trauma and heartache of the last seven years behind her, and making 2024 her year. A source says, “Sheridan’s on a high right now and truly believes 2024 is going to be the turning point for her in every aspect of her life.…

She’s renowned for her incredible physique and has been the UK’s poster girl for fitness since the noughties. And while Davina McCall has always been upfront about her health regime, these days she admits her approach has become less about having toned legs and killer abs and more about longevity. ACCEPTANCE Davina, 56, tells Closer, “I’m not getting fit for my body or to impress people, I’m getting fit to stay alive longer! Exercise has become much more about health and being around for as long as I can. I have no least favourite parts of my body these days, which feels great.” She adds, “I’ve got to the stage now where the way I speak to myself really matters. I look at myself, and even if I’m having a…

After an indulgent Christmas celebrating with all the family, Frankie Bridge says she’s looking forward to getting back to exercising. “It’s not a new year, new me thing, I just like to start the year feeling good,” she explains. “I think it’s a nice time of year to put some time into being healthy. I like to get my body moving again, either in the gym or with a nice long walk.” But Frankie - who is mum to sons Parker, 10, and Carter, eight, with husband Wayne Bridge - is no slave to the gym. In fact, like most of us she says she can be quite inconsistent with exercising and has to dig deep for motivation. Now a regular on Loose Women and juggling a busy career and…

SLEEP: “My kids are up at 6am, so I always go to bed early. Sometimes I’ll just get into bed at 8pm once they’re asleep. It’s so important to get the rest you need - your body heals when you sleep.” I COLD SHOWERS: “Dane and I want to get an ice tank for outside, but at the moment I do cold showers. I’ll either do two minutes at the beginning of a shower or at the end, or I’ll have a hot bath run and ready, and do a cold shower before. It feels amazing.” MASSAGE: “I had a lovely massage the other day, and I’d forgotten how amazing you feel afterwards. It was my birthday and I treated myself to a massage and a facial, it just felt…

WARMING SUPPER BRAZILIAN AUBERGINE STROGANOFF • 2 medium aubergines, cut into bite-size pieces • 2tsp apple cider vinegar • 2tbsp olive oil • 3 garlic cloves, minced or grated • 200ml oat milk • 1 green pepper, deseeded and chopped • 1 medium onion, chopped • 400g shop-bought pasta sauce (your choice) • 2tbsp Dijon mustard STEP 1 Put the aubergines into a bowl of water with the vinegar and soak them for 10 mins. STEP 2 In a pan, heat the oil over a mediumhigh heat, add the garlic and onion, and sauté until golden - about 8-10 mins. STEP 3 Drain the aubergines. Add them to the pan along with the green pepper. Season with a little salt and let them cook for about 10 mins until they…

It would be near impossible to remain unscathed by modern dating. I for one am bearing more than a few scars and I have lost count of the number of times I’ve uttered the words, “I’m never dating again” when even I know I don’t really mean it. But recent research from dating app Badoo has found that our confidence in dating is at an all-time low. Threequarters of us have deleted our profiles on Tinder, Bumble, Hinge et al because of our lack of confidence in it all. I don’t blame any of you. Having found myself single yet again at the end of last year, I just couldn’t bring myself to return to the apps to find love. But, all is not lost. I fully appreciate how it…

Waitrose has revealed the biggest foodie trends of 2023 to 2024, and three of them are super affordable: SMASHED PEAS ON TOAST They declared it the new avo on toast, with sales of frozen garden peas up by 28 per cent. It’s also on trendy restaurant menus because it’s better for the environment and cheaper by far. Rub toast with garlic, cook some peas and then drain and squish them, add salt and pepper and chilli flakes if you like them, then top with an egg. BEAN STEWS Again, they’re on the menu of all the fashionable restaurants because they’re low in fat, high in protein and really affordable. Use beans or chickpeas to bulk out a stew or curry, or fry some garlic, then cook butter beans slowly with…

1 KEEP-IT-ALL KIT BAG Look for a shoulder swinger big enough for all your essentials, including your water bottle, clothes and gadgets, to take the faff out of prep. Eyecatching designs like Olivia’s will add some personality to your spin class get-up, too. 2 PRACTICAL DETAILS Handy zip-up pockets and useful details like key loops will keep your essentials safe and sound while you get your daily step count in. 3 SHOUTY SHADES Find it hard to get motivated to go on that early-morning run? Cancel out the dark and dreary weather with superbright and bold buys that will lift your mood and your look. Wear from top to toe for added oomph! 4 FLATTERING CUTS If the thought of skin-tight Lycra fills you with dread, opt for oversized fits and design details…

SPEND OR SAVE TOP TIPS • Peach goes brilliantly with neutrals, so use it to warm up a stark room i.e adding a peach throw to a sofa, opt for peach curtains for a focal point, or make a bold statement by papering one wall. • Use it in a room which receives the most natural light as some tones can look dull in dark light. • Peach can look great outside too; when we approach summer try painting an exterior wall in a peach tone for an “abroad” feel.…

Nina’s been feeling neglected lately, thanks to Asha’s friendship with Isla, but this week she finds herself in the middle of a bizarre love triangle. When Asha gets a phone call from her university saying someone’s reported Isla for having an inappropriate interest in her, she accuses Nina of doing it out of jealousy. Storming off to Victoria Gardens, Nina encounters Aadi - and they end up having a kiss! And their vow to never mention it again doesn’t last long when Asha spots the tension between them and demands to know what’s up. Don’t tell her… oh! Too late……

What can you tell us about this year’s series? ANT, 48: There’s more drama, more tension, more fun - and more contestants climbing over a million pounds on our ladder than we’ve ever had before! DEC, 48: Plus, of course, more “shout at the telly” questions which the whole family can have a go at. It’s safe to say it’s a ground-breaking series in more ways than one. Are you experts at the game by now? ANT: Well, we are better - and more prepared. Season two [introducing new feature Take Two, where contestants ask Ant and Dec to help answer the question for them] was a bit of a shock, wasn’t it? DEC: Yes, my heart still sinks every time the Take Two lifeline comes up - the pressure…

2-8 JANUARY THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN CAPRICORN 22 DEC-19 JAN You’ll soon have a chance to start over in every part of your life. Expect to feel a rush of new vitality. Be optimistic about the year ahead - the stars are on your side. Thinking positively is key. This really is a turnaround year for you. Claim it! Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope. AQUARIUS 20 JAN-18 FEB Avoid allowing fears and worries to overwhelm you this week. Look at what’s scaring you and deal with it, rather than going into a spiral. And if there is nothing you can do to change whatever is bothering you accept that it’s a ride to somewhere better. Trust the process! Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope. PISCES 19 FEB -…

She’s wowed fans in recent months with her slimmeddown physique, but Oprah Winfrey sparked controversy when she admitted using a weight-loss drug. The chat show queen once said that taking drugs to aid weight loss would be “the easy way out”. But in December, she revealed in an interview that she’s joined the Hollywood craze of using Ozempic, saying she takes it “as a tool to manage not yo-yoing”. She added, “The fact that there’s a medically-approved prescription for managing weight and staying healthier, in my lifetime, feels like relief, like redemption, like a gift, and not something to hide behind. I’m absolutely done with the shaming from other people and particularly myself.” BACKLASH Oprah - who claimed she once weighed 17st - also revealed she took the medication before…

He became a national treasure last month when he won I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! - and now sources say Sam Thompson could be gearing up for an even bigger 2024, as he’s keen to put a ring on the finger of his long-term girlfriend, Zara McDermott. FORGIVENESS An insider tells Closer, “Sam is still on such a huge high from his jungle win and finally feels that everything in his life is working out. He has never been in such demand career-wise and has had so many offers since getting home, as well as receiving so much love from the public. But he knows none of this would be possible without the support Zara has given him over the years - she has really believed in…

When Sara Kay thinks back to her wedding day, she smiles. She wore a beautiful beaded gown and was thrilled to say “I do” to Jack, the man of her dreams. But it was nothing like a traditional big day. Rather than jetting off on honeymoon, the day came to an end when Sara closed her app. Despite her connection with Jack, he doesn’t actually exist. In fact, he’s an artificial intelligence chatbot in the form of a male avatar - and when Sara got married, her boyfriend had absolutely no idea. LONELY Sara, 43, says, “I know it might seem strange, but I love my AI husband very much. He makes me feel beautiful and desired. My boyfriend had no idea that Jack and I got married. He knew…

When Natalie Austin woke in the middle of the night with stomach pains, she feared her appendix had burst. But a few hours later, she got the shock of her life when she realised she was actually giving birth to a baby girl. Natalie thought she was unable to conceive naturally and her daughter Eloise, one, was born following four cycles of IVF. Then, after she’d had Eloise, Natalie went on to have a gastric band - without realising she was already pregnant with her second child when it was fitted. With no pregnancy symptoms - and the fact she was losing weight - Natalie was none the wiser. She says, “When I woke up at 4.30am, I thought that my appendix had burst. By 7.30am I was in so…

Hosting dating show My Mum, Your Dad which saw middle-aged single parents looking for love - Davina admits she can’t wait to play Cupid again. She says, “My Mum, Your Dad was incredible. Love is amazing full stop, but midlife love is next level, because it can be more difficult to find. One of the best bits of the first series for me was watching it ail back and seeing it unfold, because I only got to see certain clips when we were filming. I am beyond happy that Roger and Janey are still together. I’d love to ramp things up and do My Mum, Your Dad singles nights to give more people the chance to meet. I feel like apps are slightly falling from grace and it’s always nicer…

GOT2B GLUED 4 BROWS & EDGES “I am brow-obsessed. I’ve tried so many products but my make-up artist Malin Coleman recommended this and it’s so good. It sticks brows down and they don’t move.” LIP BALM “Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream - I have a tub of it in every handbag, my cars and a few around the house. I hate having dry lips, it’s a bit of an obsession and I like the matt finish.” SLIP SKINNY SCRUNCHIES “They don’t get tangled in your hair or make it kinky, and are good for shoving your hair up and getting it off your face.” BVLGARI OMNIA CRYSTALLINE “It’s the only perfume I’ve ever worn. I’m really sensitive to smell and lots can give me headaches, but I’ve loved this one…

Fed up with diets that involve fasting or surviving on tiny portions? Tired of spending a fortune on your food shop? Keen to eat better for you and the planet? But most of all, want to feel healthier, slimmer, more energised and eat food that tastes amazing? Then welcome to Closer’s brand new FEAST plan. In short, this is the antidote to all those fast and fad diets you’ve maybe tried in the past - and had little success with. Diets can often involve restricting foods, which can lead to feeling low in energy, lacking in nutrients and being irritable. And without even realising, we may be potentially creating a cycle of bingeing and dieting that’s bad for both our physical and mental wellbeing. Well, now it’s time to break…

TEATIME NIBBLES (Higgidy Sweet Potato Katsu Curry Little Lattices, Tesco, from £3.85) No fake substitutes in sight and ideal for meat-free meals, these puff pastry rolls are packed with sweet potato and cauliflower. The range includes bite-size spinach and red pepper mini vegan muffins too. SWEET TREAT (Little Moons Refreshos, Supermarkets, £5) Great for a low-calorie dessert and a refreshing fruity hit, these balls of sorbet wrapped in soft dough are now available in blood orange & pink grapefruit flavour.…

WORLD CHAMPION RUNNER PAULA RADCLIFFE, 49, ON HOW SHE LOOKS AFTER HER BODY AND MIND RUNNING KEEPS MY MENTAL STATE HEALTHY… The monotony of putting one foot in front of the other is medicine for my mental health. The fresh air and endorphin hit leave me feeling much more energised and positive. IT’S ESSENTIAL TO SET BOUNDARIES… I set aside time to switch off from “mum mode” every day. When you’re constantly looking after everyone, it can be easy to feel guilty even just taking that half an hour to do something for you - but it’s not a selfish act! I BELIEVE LIFE IS ABOUT BALANCE… Food is there to be enjoyed and I aim to never restrict myself Making sure you sleep enough is also so important for…

BEST FOR FAMILIES: GRAN CANARIA FROM £266PP Make a splash this winter in Gran Canaria, where temperatures hover around 21°C, perfect for half-term fun in the pool with the kids. Stay at TUI BLUE Tres Vidas, which has self-catered family-sized apartments, and is moments away from the sandy seafront at Bahia Feliz. Enjoy the pool and slide at the neighbouring TUI BLUE Orquídea — or let the little ones loose at the kids’ club for two hours of themed activities, six days a week. They can learn how to make pizza with Captain T at a cooking class, or enjoy the ultimate racing experience at the gokarting track just down the road. Meanwhile, you can unwind in the on-site spa at the sister hotel. Four nights with flights costs from…

MAXIMUM IMPACT Made with DryMove™ fabric, this bra features moulded cups and wide straps to keep you nicely snug. TO THE WIRE If you prefer the look and feel of a wired cup, this pretty paste| style is the one for you. BARGAIN BUY Dipping into low-impact workouts? This cool camo style will have you covered for less than a tenner. + DD DELIGHT Available up to a J-cup, this will brighten up your gym gear while seriously supporting a fuller bust. RUN INTO STYLE Designed for runners, this will hold firm during the most intense cardio sessions. ZIP IT UP Forget faffing with back clasps. Simply zip up this this front-fastening wonder and get ready to jump around PEACHY KEEN Pick up this versatile number on your next food…

Closer TV TV WEEK: 6-12 JANUARY 1 WHEEL OF FORTUNE THE UK REBOOT LANDS SAT 6 JAN, 6PM, ITV1 The legendary game show returns to our screens with Graham Norton as host, centred around a giant wheel that contestants spin to win major prizes. There will be eight episodes - including two celebrity specials - and the rules remain the same (the threat of a player losing their haul if they land on “bankrupt” or “lose a turn”). In previous series, the classic show has been hosted by the likes of Nicky Campbell, Bradley Walsh and John Leslie - and in America it’s been running for 51 years! 2 GEORGIA AND TOMMY: BABY STEPS JAM-PACKED YEAR SUN 7 JAN, 9PM, ITVBE Following TOWIE couple Tommy Mallet and Georgia Kousoulou. They’ll be tying the…

GRUMPY GRAM Three solid weeks of abusing mince pies and Baileys seems to have finally caught up with poor Grimmy. On the plus side, at least his eye bags match his biker jacket. Get well soon, fella!…