Tag: Celebrities

Dame Barbara Windsor in Blackpool

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Dame Barbara Windsor was a beloved figure whose iconic roles spanned decades, making her a household name for generations of viewers. From her unforgettable performances in the Carry On films to her larger-than-life portrayal of Peggy Mitchell, the feisty landlady of the Queen Vic in EastEnders, Barbara captured the hearts of millions with her infectious energy and charm. Born Barbara Ann Deeks in London in 1937, she was the only child of John and Rose Deeks. In 1939, as World War II intensified, Barbara was evacuated to Blackpool for her safety, where she spent several years living in various homes…. Read more »

Russ Abbot in September Song

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Russ Abbot’s career seamlessly blended slapstick comedy, musical performances, and dramatic moments, earning him a beloved place in British entertainment. Known for his high-energy routines, he became a household name through The Russ Abbot Show, which ran during the 1980s and 1990s. The variety show, with its sketches, musical parodies, and Abbot’s signature impersonations, captured the same vibrant, theatrical spirit that made Blackpool famous for its live entertainment scene. His performances were often a mix of colourful characters and comedic mayhem, echoing the lively atmosphere of seaside resorts like Blackpool, where variety shows had long been a draw for both… Read more »

Sophie Tucker – From Opera House to Thornton

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Sophie Tucker was born Sonya Kalish on January 13, 1886, in Tulchin, Ukraine, then part of the Russian Empire. Several months after her birth, her family immigrated to the United States and later settled in Hartford, Connecticut. Sophie Tucker, widely known as the “Last of the Red Hot Mamas,” was one of the most iconic entertainers of the early 20th century, renowned for her bold stage presence, powerful contralto voice, and pioneering contributions to vaudeville and popular music. Her career spanned decades, from the early days of vaudeville in New York to Hollywood films, radio, and a celebrated recording career…. Read more »

Pete & Sophie Win Big with Gogglebox

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Tremaine, Twaine, and Tristan, alongside Pete and Sophie Sandiford from Gogglebox, celebrated their win for Best Entertainment Show at the TRIC Awards 2022, held at Grosvenor House in London on Wednesday, 6th July. The couple, known for their charming presence on the Channel 4 series, dazzled on the blue carpet as Gogglebox triumphed at the prestigious TV awards. The Sandifords, siblings from Blackpool, made their way to the event in central London, joining fellow television and radio personalities. All smiles, they were thrilled to see their beloved show recognised with the accolade for Best Entertainment Show. For many, one of… Read more »

Prince William and Kate Middleton visit Blackpool Tower

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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton, made a visit to Blackpool Tower, where they took part in a roundtable discussion about the town’s recent history, the challenges it faces, and the ongoing regeneration efforts. Hundreds of well-wishers gathered on the promenade to greet them, despite the rain, as they toured the town to learn about its social and health issues, alongside some of Blackpool’s iconic landmarks. Their visit began at Blackpool Tower, before taking them to some of the most deprived areas, where they witnessed firsthand the regeneration work currently underway. Their tour began at… Read more »

Englebert Humperdinck at Blackpool Airport

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In July 1968, Engelbert Humperdinck arrived at Blackpool Airport in his new Rolls Royce, preparing for his summer season performance at the ABC Blackpool. Reflecting on his previous appearance in the town, he said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be coming to Blackpool again. Back in 1968 I had such a great time appearing there in summer season and it proved to be a very successful show, breaking all-known box office records.” He went on to praise Blackpool as a “shining beacon” for entertainment in Britain, adding, “It will be nice to be part of that once more.” Having recently… Read more »

David Tennant Switches on the Lights

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In 2007, David Tennant came to Blackpool to switch on the Illuminations after having just won the role of Dr Who in the BBC series. Here he takes a break from filming to light up the town. That year, the lights incorporated a Doctor Who display, including monsters from the revived series. As the then star of the show, David Tennant was invited to switch on the display for the massive event on August 31st. Also present was TV personality Dale Winton, who hosted the evening, and Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, who designed part of the display, while acts performing included Natasha Bedingfield,… Read more »

Blackpool’s Brian London Fights Muhammad Ali

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Brian London, who was originally named Brian Harper and born on 19 June 1934, was a well-regarded heavyweight boxer from Blackpool. Known for his grit and toughness, London made a name for himself in British boxing by winning both the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles. A significant moment in his career was his fight against Muhammad Ali on 6 August 1966. Brian was nicknamed the “Blackpool Rock” because of his hard and durable nature in the ring. Before taking on Ali, he had already fought other notable opponents like Henry Cooper and Floyd Patterson. However, he was considered the underdog… Read more »

Tram Hits Alan Bradley

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In the storyline, Alan Bradley, an abusive and villainous character in Coronation Street, was relentlessly pursuing his partner, Rita Fairclough, who had fled to Blackpool to escape him. The climax occurs when Alan tracks Rita down and chases her along Blackpool’s famous Promenade. During the chase, Alan recklessly runs onto the tram tracks and is struck by an oncoming tram, resulting in his dramatic death. The filming of the tram crash was meticulously planned, involving close coordination with the Blackpool Transport Authority. The production team obtained special permissions to film on the tram tracks, and the sequence was carefully choreographed… Read more »