Alexandra Burke confirms engagement to Josh Ginnelly after weeks of speculation
Alexandra Burke has finally confirmed she is engaged to her long-term partner Josh Ginnelly. The Strictly Come Dancing star shared a joyful photograph from Paris in which she kisses Ginnelly while holding up her hand to display a sparkling diamond ring, accompanied by the caption “I said yes!” In a heartfelt message she wrote that she’d “never felt this kind of love before” and that her late mother, Melissa Bell, would be “very happy” for them.
Before the public confirmation, Burke had teased fans by posting sun-drenched holiday photos from Thailand in which she flaunted her toned figure in a variety of bikinis but carefully concealed her left hand, fueling engagement rumours. In one image she posed in an orange bikini while discreetly keeping her ring finger hidden behind a white cocktail glass; in another she wore a strapless white bikini with a keyhole design that emphasized her figure. After the Paris announcement she was later photographed showing off her new ring during a night out in London with her fiancé, wearing a slinky beige co-ord that ensured attention stayed on the diamond sparkler.
TV and music headlines
Olly Murs on The Voice: ‘The best show I’ve worked on’
Olly Murs, who rose to fame on The X Factor, has taken a coaching role on The Voice. He has publicly praised the show as “the best I’ve worked on,” comments that also serve as a pointed contrast with his former mentor Simon Cowell and the ITV talent contest that launched his career.
Critic’s view on The Voice’s new coach
A columnist argued that selecting Olly Murs as a coach is a retrograde move for The Voice UK, suggesting the decision makes the show feel less innovative and questions whether it will help secure the kind of breakthrough pop stars TV talent shows have historically produced.
Jade Thirlwall buys her mother a MINI Cooper
Little Mix singer Jade Thirlwall capped a successful year by surprising her mother with a new MINI Cooper Hatch worth around £23,000. The gift followed other generous gestures including designer presents and a family trip to Disneyland, with Norma Badwi publicly thanking her daughter for the thoughtful surprise.
Exclusive interview with Matt Terry
Bounce Magazine spoke with Matt Terry about his journey since winning The X Factor in 2016 and his debut album, Trouble. The album — which Matt co-wrote — explores the arc of a relationship from love to heartbreak and moving on. Since his win he has released a Christmas single penned by Ed Sheeran, toured nationally, worked on music internationally, and featured on charitable and collaborative projects.
Louis Tomlinson criticises Coachella lineup
One Direction alumnus Louis Tomlinson took to social media after the Coachella lineup announcement to express disappointment at the apparent lack of bands on the bill, tweeting that it felt strange for a festival to be dominated by solo acts and electronic artists.
Harry Styles introduces girlfriend to family
Reports suggest Harry Styles brought his rumoured partner, model Camille Rowe, home to meet his family over the festive season, marking a step forward in their relationship.
Louisa Johnson shares bikini snaps from Bali
Louisa Johnson has been sharing a series of bikini photos from an island getaway in Bali, showing off her figure in sequin-encrusted swimwear and thong bottoms as she enjoys the sun and posts yoga-inspired shots to her Instagram followers.
Honey G reveals dramatic makeover
Honey G, who became known for her signature sunglasses and tracksuits on The X Factor, stunned viewers after ditching her usual look for a glamorous transformation. Appearing on a makeover show, the rapper swapped her trademark cap and chain for a sleek, plunging jumpsuit and full make-up.
The Official Charts — Singles
1 Ed Sheeran – Perfect
5 Camila Cabello – Havana (feat. Young Thug)
11 Rak-Su – Dimelo (feat. Wyclef Jean & Naughty Boy)
14 James Arthur – Naked
32 CNCO & Little Mix – Reggaeton Lento (Remix)
34 ZAYN – Dusk Till Dawn (feat. Sia)
37 Camila Cabello – Never Be The Same
66 Little Mix – Is Your Love Enough
68 Little Mix – Power (feat. Stormzy)
69 Liam Payne – Bedroom Floor
91 Liam Payne – Strip That Down (feat. Quavo)
92 Little Mix – Touch
The Official Charts — Albums
1 Ed Sheeran – Divide
12 Little Mix – Glory Days: Platinum Edition
34 Niall Horan – Flicker
36 Tokio Myers – Our Generation
81 Little Mix – Get Weird
83 Harry Styles – Harry Styles