It's been 25 years since the bestselling novel Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone marked the beginning of a global phenomenon. Author J.K. Rowling conjured up her boy wizard and the world of Hogwarts while stuck on a train and fought to have her novel accepted by publishers before it became a billion pound franchise. It was rejected 12 times before Bloomsbury eventually released it to the world in 1997. Rowling went on to write a further six Harry Potter books which have since been translated into 80 languages. Each book also has its own film adaptation which launched the careers of Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint – and turned Rowling into a household name. Here, we take a look back at how it all began… Get all the latest news sent to your inbox. Sign up for the free Mirror newsletter J.K. Rowling launches the fourth book in the series, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire ( Image: Press Association) A wizard way to make money J.K. … [Read more...] about Inside Harry Potter’s magical world – and how it nearly didn’t happen 25 years ago
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Taylor Swift secretly gets engaged to Brit boyfriend Joe Alwyn
TAYLOR Swift and British boyfriend Joe Alwyn have secretly got engaged. The loved-up couple have no plans to formally announce their happy news but have confided in their inner circle. A pal of Conversations With Friends actor Joe , 31, says he bought the superstar singer , 32, a ring which she wears “behind closed doors”. The famously discreet couple, who have only been pictured on the red carpet a handful of times, have not told some members of their team. Last night, a source close to Joe said: “Taylor and Joe are incredibly happy, and very, very in love. “They’ve actually been engaged for a few months but have only told their inner-inner circle — basically immediate family, and trusted, very old friends. Everyone has been sworn to secrecy, too. Read More on Taylor Swift NOT SO SWIFT Taylor Swift buys budget family car to get around London under the radar WILDEST DREAMS? Fans think Taylor Swift will appear … [Read more...] about Taylor Swift secretly gets engaged to Brit boyfriend Joe Alwyn
Meghan Markle ‘bullying’ inquiry findings to be kept private
Details of an investigation into claims of bullying at Buckingham Palace will not be made public. An independent inquiry had been launched in response to allegations made about Meghan Markle. It was previously reported that she ‘drove out’ two personal assistants and that staff were ‘humiliated’ on several occasions. She had been accused of bullying staff before she moved to California with Prince Harry as the pair quit as working royals. Royal experts had claimed the allegations had led to a row between the couple and Prince William who was allegedly ‘appalled’ at the allegations. Meghan and Harry both refuted the claims and later told Ophra Winfrey that Buckingham Palace was using the media to ‘peddle a wholly false narrative’. While its full findings won’t be made public, the investigation into the handling of the bullying allegations made against the Duchess of Sussex has seen HR policies improved for royal staff. The confidentiality of those who … [Read more...] about Meghan Markle ‘bullying’ inquiry findings to be kept private
Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill back in top 10 thanks to Stranger Things
Published 3 June Share close Share page Copy link About sharing Kate Bush's Running Up That Hill has gone back into the UK top 10 after a new generation discovered it thanks to Netflix's Stranger Things. The song originally reached number three in the singles chart in 1985. The track has taken off again after playing a prominent part in the new series of the 1980s-set streaming hit, and went to number eight on Friday. It has been hugely popular on music services and TikTok since the show's fourth season was released last week. The global resurgence has also seen it go to number two in Australia. And in the US, where it reached number 30 in 1985, the comeback should "at least give its original chart peak a run for its money", Billboard said . The song is used in a number of episodes of the new series, and becomes crucial for the character of Max Mayfield, played by Sadie … [Read more...] about Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill back in top 10 thanks to Stranger Things
Dame Kelly Holmes exposes her abs in a yellow mullet dress with midriff cutouts at the LGBT Awards… days after coming out as gay
Dame Kelly Holmes caught the eye at the 2022 British LGBT Awards in London on Friday, less than a week after coming out as gay. The retired Olympic athlete, 52, put on a striking display in a yellow thigh-split mullet dress featuring midriff cutouts which exposed her washboard abs. Elevating her height with a pair of black heels, she looked stunning while flashing a beaming smile for photographers at the event. Emerging: Dame Kelly Holmes caught the eye at the 2022 British LGBT Awards in London on Friday, less than a week after coming out as gay The sportswoman accessorised her look with a matching canary belt, along with a silver necklace and hoop earrings. RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next EXCLUSIVE: Olympic diver Tom Daley and Strictly Come... Steps' Faye Tozer matches her bandmate Claire Richards in... 'I would have loved to have been me 30 years ago': Dame... First look at Kelly Holmes: Being Me - as the new... … [Read more...] about Dame Kelly Holmes exposes her abs in a yellow mullet dress with midriff cutouts at the LGBT Awards… days after coming out as gay
Ellen DeGeneres’ latest video with wife Portia leaves fans with questions
June 30, 2022 - 10:27 BST Ellen DeGeneres home: Presenter Ellen live with her wife Portia De Rossi – see their latest DIY project together that's sparked questions Ellen DeGeneres has sparked fan questions with her latest DIY project along with her wife Portia De Rossi at their grand Montecito mansion. TOUR: Look around Ellen DeGeneres' megamansion The presenter shared a video of the pair of them trying to assemble a shower seat, but fans were left wondering who the item was for. Loading the player... WATCH: Ellen DeGeneres addresses controversy "Either someone is having leg or foot surgery soon or it's for the live in elderly person," speculated one. "I bet for her momma," another wrote, while someone else agreed: "Mama, most likely." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ellen DeGeneres (@theellenshow) Ellen and Portia attempted … [Read more...] about Ellen DeGeneres’ latest video with wife Portia leaves fans with questions
4th of July 2022: Sales from Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue & MORE
Last modified on Jul 02, 2021 07:41 BST Take a peek at the biggest Fourth of July sales around, from Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, and more. The Fourth of July isn't all about eating burgers and watching parades! It's also about shopping some of the summer's best sales. We've got all the details on where to shop to shore up all your hot summer looks. From a new pair of sandals to sundress style to homegoods, furniture, and more – tons of merchants are offering big-time savings. RELATED: The 10 best deals for DIY fun all summer long MORE: The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale preview is ON - and we've already found 8 of the best deals The sales have kicked off so make sure you’re prepared! Take a peek at our Fourth of July guide to the biggest sales around the web. MACY'S Macy's annual Fourth of July sale is back, with incredible deals on houseware, clothing, shoes, and more. You can save up to 65% off furniture, rugs, … [Read more...] about 4th of July 2022: Sales from Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue & MORE
Nicole Scherzinger celebrates exciting special occasion with Thom Evans donning romantic lace white gown – leaves fans in awe
June 30, 2022 - 00:56 BST Nicole Scherzinger wowed with a romantic lace white gown as she celebrated her birthday alongside Thom Evans When it comes to special occasions, Nicole Scherzinger sure knows how to go all out , especially when milestones are involved! MORE: Nicole Scherzinger rocks bridal white wedding outfit with Thom Evans – fans react The star celebrated her birthday in absolute style , and was accompanied, of course, by her longtime boyfriend, Thom Evans. For her special day, she headed to her "happy place" which she revealed is St. Moritz, in Switzerland. Loading the player... WATCH: Nicole poses up a storm in slinky loungewear MORE: Nicole Scherzinger turns heads with latest unexpected bikini photos In honor of another year around the sun, she shared a video featuring an epic transition from bathrobe into full glam , a trend she's begun to be known for, and it sees her dropping a … [Read more...] about Nicole Scherzinger celebrates exciting special occasion with Thom Evans donning romantic lace white gown – leaves fans in awe
DIY mum-of-two transforms ‘unliveable’ Victorian home into minimalist haven – pictures
DIY mum-of-two transforms ‘unliveable’ Victorian home into minimalist haven - pictures (Image: Instagram/@oreathome) This article contains affiliate links, we may receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more How to keep your lawn lush, borders beautiful and more with our FREE email SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info The trend of minimalist, Japandi home interiors has become extremely popular in recent years and shows no signs of slowing down. Green Lili spoke to Ore at @oreathome to find out how she transformed her aged, “unliveable” Victorian home into the gorgeous property it is today. Japandi decor is the intersection of Scandinavian and modern Japanese interior design styles. Both are rooted in minimalist design … [Read more...] about DIY mum-of-two transforms ‘unliveable’ Victorian home into minimalist haven – pictures
Germany to return looted artifacts to Africa
The German government has reached an agreement with Nigeria on the return of around 1,100 Benin Bronzes . The collection of metal plaques and sculptures that decorated the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin, in what is now southwestern Nigeria, were looted during colonial times. The bronzes that have found their way into 20 museums across Germany were mostly taken by British forces when they conquered, burned, and looted the city of Benin in 1897. The invaluable Benin Bronzes will be restituted to Nigeria after German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and Commissioner for Culture and the Media Claudia Roth sign a memorandum of understanding with their Nigerian counterparts in Berlin on Friday that clears the way for the transfer of ownership rights. Over 1,100 Berlin Bronzes in 20 German museums will be repatriated to Nigeria "The return of the Benin Bronzes underpins our commitment to coming to terms with our colonial history. It should be the beginning of a new, a … [Read more...] about Germany to return looted artifacts to Africa