WEEK IN SHOWBIZ

COTTONED ON

I found myself at a jungle-themed installation at the Ideal Home Show with Corrie’s Antony Cotton – also a one-time contestant on I’m A Celebrity... Pop star Dougie Poynter won that year, with Antony coming fourth – just don’t mention it. ‘I was furious,’ he joked when I asked him. ‘I worked so hard!’ That was way back in 2011! Speaking of how time flies, the soap favourite will celebrate 20 years on the cobbles next year.

KEEPING UP WITH THE JONES

Check out Emilia Jones at the BAFTAS, nominated for the fantastic film CODA, in which Emilia plays the only hearing member of her deaf family. The rising star is, of course, the daughter of my old mate Aled Jones. ‘Finally,’ I joked to her, ‘There’s talent in the family!’ Aled couldn’t make the awards, but I know he is super-proud of his chip off the old block!

QUEEN FOR THE DAY

TV royalty doesn’t come more regal than Queen Charlotte on the hit period romp Bridgerton, played by the fabulous Golda Rosheuvel. As you can see here, she is just as glamorous in real life – although it takes her a full two hours to frock up for a scene as her on-screen alter ego. ‘I weighed myself once with the gown, wig and all the jewels on,’ she tells me. ‘And it was an extra two stone!’