#two dukes of edinburgh talked about the duke of edinburgh’s award

[littlemuoi]

'Look, I'm not trying to change the world' by Susan Ryan (October 20th 2005)

For 50 years, the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme has offered challenge and adventure to young people across the globe. In a rare double interview, Prince Philip and Prince Edward - the scheme's greatest champion - explain why it gives them cause to be optimistic - By Susan Ryan

There is something unnerving about turning up for an interview at Buckingham Palace. For a start, at our briefing in the Sunshine Room, it was referred to not as an interview, but an audience. A small curtsey, we were advised, would be appropriate - which undoubtedly it is for an audience, but is really quite odd for an interview. Forget Jeremy Paxman: it is almost impossible to get into even mildly inquisitorial mode when you have just curtsied for the first time in your life, to the subject of your interview.

Other questions about protocol arose. I have been to war zones and A-list celebrity parties with photographer Abbie Trayler-Smith, but this was the first time she had been given a dress code. In the event what she wore mattered little because the Duke told her she could take "a" picture and then go, or as he put it "shove off". He meant it: three clicks of the shutter and he became impatient; another two clicks, and he had had enough. "You can shove off now..... shoo along... shoo along."

It was not an encouraging start. I had been granted 30 minutes with the Duke of Edinburgh and his son Edward, the Earl of Wessex, to talk about the 50th anniversary of the Duke's award programme. It had been stressed that such interviews are extremely rare and a full half-hour was almost unheard of (although against the normal benchmark, it is barely enough time to warm up). A father and son interview - as patron and trustee of the award programme - was even rarer. The thought hovers that only one mildly daft question and I, too, might be invited to shove off.

I had met the Duke several months ago on the day after The Daily Telegraph had published a front-page picture of the Queen shaking Eric Clapton's hand at a party at the Palace. The headline read: "The Queen: Have you been playing long? Eric Clapton: It must be 45 years now." The implication was that Her Majesty hadn't had a clue who the famous guitarist was and the Duke wanted me to know that she "absolutely" had.

"Of course the Queen knows who Eric Clapton is," he scolded, appearing to be more hurt on her behalf than angry. He explained that her question had been "how long have you been playing?" not, "have you been playing long?".

I sensed it was her professionalism as a well-briefed hostess that he was defending, rather than her street credentials, for he happily confessed: "I wouldn't have had a clue who he was, but the Queen knew exactly who she was talking to."

But while he clearly takes pride in Her Majesty's rock knowledge, he is less keen to take credit for what is widely regarded as the country's biggest and best youth programme for the personal development of young people aged between 14 and 25. But the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme is something of which he should be justifiably proud. Over the past 50 years, more than five million people in 100 countries have set and achieved personal goals as well as giving over 54 million hours of service to the community. At any one time, more than 500,000 young people are participating around the world, 225,000 of those in this country.

Set against the current emphasis within state day schools on academic work to the virtual exclusion of sport and other physical activity, the scheme is increasingly significant. It provides the opportunity both for encouraging physical fitness and for individual achievement.

But the Duke brushes aside his own personal contribution to it, admitting only when pushed that the programme simply would not have existed without him. "Oh, all right," he says. "But it is the original committee that set up the right formula and it is the volunteers who make it work. What I have done is all incidental. It has had to fit in with whatever else was going on."

He expresses surprise when someone mentions that in 50 years he has never missed a gold award ceremony. "That's only in this country," he says dismissively.

The vision came from that of his old headmaster at Gordonstoun, Kurt Hahn, who wanted to get away from the idea that all physical activity should be competitive. At the school, Khan devised a plan in which each individual could improve his personal performance in athletics and was in the process of extending it to the county and beyond, when war broke out.

After the war ended, the headmaster requested a meeting with his former pupil in which he asked him to bring together a committee of the great and the good.

'Khan talked of the four declines: a decline in compassion; a decline in skills; a decline in enterprise; and a decline in fitness," says the Duke. And from these discussions it was decided that there would be a national scheme and that it would include public service, a skill and an expedition.

Had it achieved what he hoped for? "I didn't know what it was going to achieve. It provided something for a lot of young people to expand their interest, which they probably would not have done otherwise," he says matter of factly, adding: "You obviously didn't do it, did you? What happened? Lousy school?"

Was it the idea now to see every child take part? "No," say the Duke and the Earl in unison. "We want to make it on offer to everyone. It is up to individuals if they want to do it; it is entirely voluntary," says the Duke, as his son nods.

The young Prince Edward first became aware of the award at school. "I was a trouble-maker. There was this mountain and we kept on having to walk up it and down it and I asked whether it wouldn't be a good idea to walk round it for a change."

Prince Philip laughs. The body language is that of any other father-son relationship. When Edward talks, his father listens closely and radiates an almost tangible fondness.

The school suggested that the Prince find a way round the mountain for the Duke of Edinbugh Award, and it was the first time he had heard of it. But hadn't he grown up with an awareness of his father's eponymous scheme?

"Of course not," retorts the Duke. "Why should he? I didn't go pushing things."

Prince Edward went on to do the gold award at university and he is now perhaps its greatest champion. He is chairman of the international committee and a trustee of the board, and often spends at least two days a week working behind the scenes. He is also clearly passionate about it, talking animatedly about the award's reach.

"It has long been thought of as a preventive measure," he says. "The challenge then became why we didn't go and tackle some really difficult areas, really challenging areas. So we went into the Drumchapel estate in Glasgow, and after going in there and surviving, we decided to go into Belfast and worked across the community."

The scheme is now also available in hundreds of young offenders' units and, where they have been able to measure, the reoffending rates have dropped dramatically.

Surprisingly, though, his involvement in the awards had little to do with his father. I ask if he was pushed into it. "Absolutely not," expostulates the Duke.

"I am not a demanding father."

Instead, having done the award himself, the Earl got sucked into fund-raising for it, and being "rather too good at it - that was my error", he was asked to take on more and more by the committee.

The only time that the Duke gets prickly is when I suggest that the perception of the award is that it is middle-class. "Why do you say 'middle-class'? We haven't reached out to the middle class; it's open to everybody.

"More state schools do it than public schools, which generally are not interested - although the bursar at Eton has told me that they are going to take it up. I nearly fell off my chair."

Whether it is cause or effect, one by-product of their work is that the contact they have gives them reason to be optimistic about today's youth. "A lot of social engineering policies have not been as successful as they might have been, which may possibly account for the fact that there is a higher proportion of yobs," says the Duke. "Or perhaps the yobbishness is of greater significance than it was before - I don't know. But there is absolutely no doubt that the young people I see are exceptionally good - but that is not a very high proportion of the population."

The reason for the 50th anniversary celebrations is two-fold: to raise money (in trying to make it more accessible, a certain amount of debt has been incurred) and to increase the availability, which means more volunteers are needed. One member of staff - which is all most schools feel they can release - can supervise up to a maximum of 140 children, which often means that not all those who want to do it, can.

"Look, I am not trying to change the world. It's not a personal campaign. I just want to see young people have an opportunity to do these things," says the Duke.

We have gone over time by 15 minutes. Abbie bravely returns to plead for a picture of the two together. The Duke insists that I stand between them. Later, we doctor the photo to excise my presence to make it usable (see main picture). I am confused about why he is so insistent, but dare not argue. Thinking about it afterwards, I can only assume he thought that this was a personal thing and that I had wanted it for my mantelpiece.

Next day I get a message from Prince Edward, who is married to a PR and is therefore more media-savvy. If I wanted any pictures of them together, he was sure that he had some in the archives. A further message was delivered: if I wanted to talk to him on the telephone, he would be very happy to do so, and passed on a time and a number, and I realise why those people working on the anniversary are full of praise for his willingness and his professionalism.

[tonkifish]

Vango airbeam valves

These tents were so impressive to mountaineers at the time that they were used for approach marches and at camps one and two during a 19 Everest expedition – if a tent can do well on Everest, it can do well anywhere. For example, the Vango Force Ten classic tent was the first tent on the market to use an integrated flysheet and A pole as part of the tent itself. For an awfully long time, they’re been at the forefront of tent manufacturing, making innovations that other companies simply haven’t matched. Vango is known, principally, for its tents. They’re particularly popular and influential in the UK – they have long worked alongside the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, where they provide students with outdoor equipment to allow them to complete their qualifications. Vango is a Scottish company with a lot of heritage in the outdoor equipment world. In this article we are going to be talking about who Vango are, what they do and whether we think their tents are owrth buying. They also have created special technologies to give the tent materials the best coverage and even extended warranties for the products. Vango tents are well worth buying as they are waterproof, breathable and come in a range of sizes suitable for any requirements. They have made tents in variety of sizes, shapes and for a number of requirements, but they key question is, are they any good? Vango tents are one of the leading tent manufacturers and set the standards high when it comes to quality and price.

[princessanneftw]

Princess Anne takes on more of the Queen's duties to make sure honours are awarded in person

The Princess Royal has notched up the most engagements for any single member of the Royal family so far this year

By Hannah Furness for The Telegraph

The Princess Royal has stepped into the breach to ensure those awarded honours during the pandemic are able to receive them in person, taking on more duties for the Queen than any other member of the Royal Family.

The Princess has adjusted her diary to take on 13 investitures since July, aiming to clear a backlog of recipients by welcoming them to Windsor Castle in person.

Said to enjoy meeting the worthy members of the public honoured with awards including knighthoods, damehoods, OBEs, CBEs and MBEs, the Princess is aiming to work her way through expedited ceremonies to ensure everyone who is able to attend the Windsor Castle ceremony can do so.

Before the pandemic hit, the Prince of Wales and Duke of Cambridge were undertaking more of the investiture ceremonies on behalf of the Queen, who has been doing them for decades.

Then, Princess Anne contributed two or three a year among her other duties, which see her ranked among the hardest-working members of the family annually.

Since the summer of 2021, she has taken on significantly more investitures on behalf of the Queen than other senior royals, with Prince Charles doing six and Prince William three so far this year amidst their other duties.

Recipients have already spoken of their joy at seeing the straight-talking Princess Royal at the castle ceremonies, as part of the 368 engagements she has done so far this year, despite the restrictions of Covid-19.

Lorraine Kelly, the broadcaster, said it was "extra special" to receive the award from Princess Anne, adding: "I've always admired her. She works incredibly hard."

Ian Cole, who received an OBE, praised the Princess as “most interested and knowledgeable” about his work in defence.

A palace source said that, like other members of the Royal Family, the Princess “enjoys investitures and meeting the recipients”.

With smaller numbers of people able to attend the ceremonies and a backlog of those due to be honoured thanks to Covid-19, they added, the family had been doing “some diary management” to ensure people can be recognised properly.

Busiest member of the Royal family

So far this year, the Princess has notched up the most engagements for any single member of the family, beating the next busiest, the Prince of Wales, who has taken part in at least 360, by just a handful of events.

The Queen who has endured the death of her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, coronavirus isolation and a period of ill health, has still undertaken 186, with many on the telephone or by video call.

The Earl of Wessex has completed 208 and his wife the Countess 151, with the Duchess of Cornwall undertaking 161 including several overseas tours once travel restrictions were lifted.

The Duke of Cambridge has done 232, boosted by a series of back-to-back telephone calls during the pandemic lockdown at the beginning of the year.

The Duchess of Cambridge, who also did some home schooling of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis in early 2021, completed 115. Around 30 of them were meetings for her "early years" project or with staff from the Royal Foundation.

The Princess Royal’s engagements are particularly diverse, from her responsibilities with the Blues and Royals, Save the Children and the International Olympic Committee to recognition for the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, The Chaffinch Trust and the Wooden Spoon Society.

On Friday, she represented the Queen at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst as reviewing officer of The Sovereign’s Parade, inspecting the troops and presenting awards to officer cadets.

The conclusive tallies of Royal family work will be calculated at the end of the year.

The palaces regularly insist that the number of engagements is less important than the impact of the work, with the Cambridges choosing to focus more time on fewer causes than the Queen’s children, believing they can make a greater impact in key areas such as early years child development, mental health and the environment.

[coochiequeens]

Rich White man from Europe is more concerned about African wildlife than the impact of his words will have on women.

CNN)When it comes to overpopulation as the cause of wildlife loss in Africa, Prince William just won't let it go.

As I was looking for reactions to the speech the second in line to the British throne gave at an awards ceremony on Monday where he said: "The increasing pressure on Africa's wildlife and wild spaces, as a result of human population, presents a huge challenge for conservationists," I stumbled upon near-identical remarks he made four years prior.

"In my lifetime we have seen global wildlife populations decline by over half," the Prince is reported as having said in 2017 at a gala for the same charity, The Tusk Trust. "Africa's rapidly growing human population is predicted to more than double by 2050 -- a staggering increase of three and a half million people per month. There is no question that this increase puts wildlife and habitat under enormous pressure."

Then, as now, people have been quick to point out two things: the first is the Duke of Cambridge's hypocrisy. Here is a man who's determined his own family size, travels frequently by air and lives a lavish lifestyle (read: has a high carbon footprint) in one of the world's top 15 energy-consuming countries. (Mind you, energy consumption is a limited measure of the UK's environmental impact as Britain largely imports its goods. Someone else -- China -- is accounting for the energy used to produce those goods.)

The second challenge to the Prince's statements centers on the inaccurate conclusions drawn about Africa's rising population. While Africa's population is indeed growing, it remains more sparsely populated than Europe or Asia; indigenous communities that live closest to wildlife are typically excellent custodians of the environment as their survival depends on it; and again, it is human behaviors not human numbers that more directly harm the biosphere.

But there is more that is wrong with what Prince William said: identifying population growth as the problem, logically presents population control as the solution. This automatically transforms wombs into legitimate sites for climate policy. In other words, women's rights to contraception and education are weaponized: they are no longer tools that help women access greater choice, but instead this gender equality goal is hijacked to impose someone else's agenda.

Let's imagine for one minute that we accept that population growth -- and specifically, population growth in Africa -- leads to greater pressure on wildlife, an argument that Prince William believes is undeniable. How should this be addressed? A one-child policy as a condition for development aid? How will the impact of that reduction in population be measured? Who is to say if it is going far enough to mitigate environmental damage? If it isn't, what then?

Prince William seems to have avoided speculating on how to fix his problem. His grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh, was not so wise and was known to have called for "voluntary family limitation" to address a growing human population.

This is not the first time, nor will it be the last, that women's bodies are implicated in policy games. In 2017 Denmark, which regularly tops best-country-to-be-a-woman rankings, pledged additional funds to help women access family planning because "part of the solution to reducing migratory pressures on Europe is to reduce the very high population growth in many African countries."

It should be obvious to all that panic about population growth in Black, brown and Indigenous parts of the world is underpinned by race and class prejudice. It should be equally obvious that what every woman needs is the freedom to choose for herself if, when and how many children she will have. If despite years of talking about conservation Prince William has not considered that his concern for Africa's wildlife could stigmatize Africa's women, perhaps now is the time for him to do so.

Yes African women deserve access to family planning. And they deserve it with no strings attached. Not because so some over privileged guy from another country wants to save animals.

[thetinypsychologist]

HOW TO SURVIVE UNIVERSITY AS A FIRST-YEAR STUDENT

So! I am currently in my first-year at University but I’ve been studying for a couple of months now and feel as though I have enough information and experience to make this post!

MANAGE YOUR TIME

Whether it’s a timetable, to-do list, writing in your planner - you need some sort of method to manage your time and note what tasks you need to do and when. Set a specific time for each class and plan your own class schedule. Even better, study for your classes at the same time they should be held. This will create a sense of routine and make things so much easier. Find what works for you! Your perfect system won’t work great for your friends! There’s no shame in not being able to keep up with the schedule you’ve made. If you’ve tried or if it hurts you mentally or physically, then that schedule is just not the one for you. Finding a system that works for you takes time, patience, and courage. but it will be absolutely worth it. Find yourself a routine that works best for you! I know that my method doesn’t work well for my peers: I make a to-do list for the week and note down the tasks I want to do for each day and do a little bit everyday but I know some people would rather do everything in two days and have the rest of the week free! Below I’ve showed how I organise my week:

BE ACTIVELY ENGAGED

In your lectures and seminars, engage!!! Ask questions, answer questions, take part in the discussions!! It’ll help you retain the content much easier and you’ll enjoy learning so much more compared to just sitting there mindlessly listening. Take notes, even if you can record your lessons and/or access the lessons later. This will force you into focusing and minimise the chance of you getting distracted and zoning out. If you have any face-to-face lecture/seminars then it’s a good idea to sit in the first few rows, towards the front - again, this minimises the chance of you zoning out and increases the chance of you engaging.

ACCOMMODATE YOURSELF

Accommodate yourself, not just with comfort, but also with actual necessities that you cannot usually get in your usual classroom/library due to whatever reason. Whether it be stress balls, stim toys, motivational cards, calming music/candles. comfort items. chewing gum. As long as it helps you focus better, keep it with you. Other necessities may be water, a snack, sticky notes etc. Make sure to declutter your study space. put your phone out of reach & turn off notifications. If you have problems with this, I recommend using an app called Forest or putting your phone in another room.

FIND WHAT WORKS FOR YOU

I know that I will start a lecture around 9/10am. But all mine is asynchronous (narrated powerpoint or videos) and so I will sit for literally two hours just listening to the lecture trying to take notes but very quickly losing focus. I’ve now realised that I can make notes from the powerpoint slides, and then use the narrations/videos for when I want more detail or don’t understand something. This saved me a lot of time, cutting down my time spent on one lecture from around 70 minutes, to 35. This gives me more time to start other content, work on my assignments, and give myself the breaks I need to work efficiently.

WORK TOWARDS YOUR CAREER

Since more and more people go to universities each year, the job market is becoming increasingly competitive for academics. It is important that you obtain skills outside of your studies – for example through societies or volunteer work. Just find something that’s fun and doesn’t feel like another burden. You might also want to become a student representative or part of a student parliament if your university has one. Your university’s career service provides you with tips and resources for a good start into your work life. Things are competitive - find something to make you stand out. Examples of things I’ve done (not just at university) include: Senior Prefect, write and directed my own play for younger students to perform, TEFL course, taught at an Arabic school, volunteered as a youth worker, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Course Representative etc.

MAKE FRIENDS

Being at university can be lonely. You might have moved to a different place, you’re faced with new challenges, and you might find that adult life is not at all like you imagined. Having someone to talk to is important. Good thing that it’s never easier to make friends than at university. You are surrounded by people your age (and it’s actually a lot easier to not see people you don’t like than it is in school.)

Fresher’s week is full of opportunities to meet new people! Check out the societies at the fresher’s fair. In the UK, there are usually societies for every niche interest you can think of. You might end up not actually going, but sometimes you still keep a friend. Another idea is to make a group chat with people in your classes - introduce yourself to the people sitting next to you. Ask them if they would like to go to lunch together, check out the library etc.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

University is not all about working 24/7 and pushing yourself. Listen to your mind and body. It’s normal and okay to feel lost or overwhelmed. Please take care of your mental and physical well-being during this very, very weird time. Keep yourself active. Re-ignite old interests/ hobbies. Give yourself some love. A tip I always give to people is to have some sort of creative/kinaesthetic hobby - whether it’s writing, art, embroidery, making collages, journalling etc. Having some sort of fun creative outlet is just what I need when I don’t want to do work but still want to be a little productive. Make sure you’re eating enough, and make sure you’re getting at least 8 hours of sleep. Take care of your body.

MISC TIPS

Make cheatsheets to revise from

See if your university offers free/discounted versions of resources like MS Word etc

Talk to your tutors. Get to know them so they know who you are.

Don’t be afraid to ask you tutors for help - that is what they are there for. They LOVE students that are self-advocates for their own learning.

Give yourself breaks.

Learn your methods. Learn how to use whatever resources / software your university uses. Learn what study styles work best for you.

[the-empress-7]

I totally believe that Kate wouldn’t have wanted to participate because she hates these kinds of things, but it’s a you said - she does it anyway because she knows that’s what she signed up for. We can also flip it and say that she’s the only member of the working, official, or whatever we want to call it, royal family not in it. She would also have a different perspective compared to the other family members due to being a DofE awards recipient and therefore wouldn’t have had to talk about their personal relationship at all. There are two members of the British royal family on the Duke of Edinburgh Awards website. One is Edward, the other is Catherine.

https://www.dofe.org/lifezone/celebritysupport/awardholders/

Agreed. Thank you.

[royalpain16]

PRINCE Charles is set to "live in a 'flat above the shop" as Buckingham Palace is thrown open to the public when he is king, it's been reported.

In a bid to radically overhaul the royal estate, the monarch will be left in less-than lavish living arrangements as the Palace is opened up to the public, it's been suggested.

Prince Charles is also planning to move the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to Windsor Castle, because its position in the Heathrow flight path makes it "too noisy" for him.

It will be a property move that the Cambridges are said to want, according to a friend of the royals.

And there are talks that Balmoral could turn into a "museum" dedicated to the Queen as part of the property reshuffle.

As well as slimming down the monarchy, the "property question" is also on the "to do list," a source told the Mail on Sunday.

The source said: "The central point is: when the Queen is no longer here, how do you effectively spread two generations of the family across quite a large number of properties?

"The Prince of Wales strongly believes that these places have got to deliver something for the public beyond just being somewhere for members of the Royal Family to live.

"Everything is seen through the lens of the question: 'What value is this offering to the public?'

"Everybody recognises it makes no sense to run so many residences but if you give them up entirely you will never get them back when Prince George and the younger royals grow up and need somewhere to live."

Buckingham Palace, which is undergoing a ten-year, £369 million renovation, is set to be opened up for public access all year-round.

This means that the monarch's living quarters, which currently include 52 royal and guest bedrooms and 188 staff bedrooms, will be dramatically cut in Prince Charles' radical new change. 

A friend of Charles told the paper: "Despite what everybody thinks about him not wanting to live there, he will certainly have accommodation there – but it will be a much more modest flat-above-the-shop situation akin to that of the Prime Minister at Downing Street.

"Both the Prince and the Duchess of Cornwall are very practical and see that the reigning Monarch must live at Buckingham Palace, otherwise it would become like Hampton Court."

Charles official residency at Clarence House was at first going to be given to Harry - but plans changed after he and Meghan Markle quit the royal family and moved to California.

But a source added: "No one is terribly fond of Clarence House because it's still seen very much as the Queen Mother's place."

CROWNSIZE

Meanwhile in Scotland, there are talks that Balmoral may be opened up as a museum dedicated to the Queen once Charles takes the throne.

Balmoral - which is the Queen's favourite - is closed to the public in the summer, but under Charles, there is set to be far greater access to the royal grounds.

Just yesterday, the Queen today spoke publicly about Prince Philip for the first time since his death while in Scotland.

Her Majesty, 95, recalled the "many happy memories" she and her husband shared as she officially opened the new session of the Scottish parliament at Holyrood yesterday morning.

She told MSPs in the socially distanced debating chamber: “I have spoken before of my deep and abiding affection for this wonderful country, and of the many happy memories Prince Philip and I always held of our time here.

“It is often said that it is the people that make a place, and there are few places where this is truer than in Scotland, as we have seen in recent times.”

The Duke of Edinburgh, who died two months’ before his 100th birthday, had a number of connections to Scotland.

He was educated at Gordonstoun, which led to the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, and took annual breaks in Balmoral with the Queen.

----The Sun Oct 3, 2021

[thecrownnet]

The Crown season 5 will see a whole new cast of actors as the major players in what is said to be the most trying period in the Queen's life.

*Article published in Jan 2021

Netflix's The Crown season 5 will see a whole new cast of actors portraying Queen Elizabeth, her family, and other major players in what is said to one of the most trying times in British history. The show has already seen two separate casts, one led by Claire Foy in seasons 1 and 2 with seasons 3 and 4 led by Olivia Colman. Sticking to tradition, showrunner Peter Morgan is set to bring in one more batch of actors for the show's final two seasons, episodes that will inch The Crown's timeline toward the modern day.

This particular baton pass may be the most important in the show's history, considering the particularly intense turbulence the royals had to endure in the 1990s. The Crown season 4 had already begun to shake things up for the Queen and those in her orbit, having introduced two monumental figures in British history: Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Princess Diana. Though the show neatly wrapped up Thatcher's tenure as PM in the season's final episode (having been replaced by the Conservative Party's John Major), Diana is sure to continue on as an influential player in the show's coming story. Though Morgan has been rather quiet about the exact years season 5 will cover, it is possible that he may need to move the narrative at a slower pace than usual, taking time to cover the numerous scandals, divorces, and tragedies that marked the era.

However, which actors will get to embody the historical figures during this tumultuous period largely remains a mystery. Since the show's filming schedule has been delayed, The Crown is not likely to return until 2022, giving the creators a bit of time to assemble their cast. However, Morgan and Netflix have confirmed a few casting choices of important players who are sure to be at the heart of season 5. So far, here's who has been cast in The Crown's next season.

Imelda Staunton As Queen Elizabeth II

Fans of the show have largely applauded the casting of Imelda Stauton, who will replace Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth II. The London-born four-time Olivier Award winner has a long history of turning in stellar performances on both the stage and screen. Perhaps best known for her portrayal of Dolores Umbridge in the Harry Potter film series, Imelda Staunton is also recognizable for her work in Kenneth Branagh's Much Ado About Nothing, Nanny McPhee, Maleficent, and the recent Apple+ show, Trying. Throughout her career, the actress has demonstrated a wide range capable of being authoritative and humorous in equal measure - qualities The Crown will surely lean into.

Bringing someone as experienced as Staunton on board for The Crown's coming story will certainly prove to be a wise move considering all that is in store for Elizabeth. Since season 4 concluded on Christmas Day 1990, the next batch of episodes will likely begin shortly thereafter, perhaps in 1992 - a year which the Queen has called her "most horrible year" in speeches. During that single year, the marriages of many of her children began to fall apart - Anne divorcing, Andrew separating, and Charles' widely publicized troubles with Diana leading to their separation, as well. Additionally, 1992 saw a fire at Windsor Castle, an event that led to the Royal Family paying income taxes for the very first time. On a more positive note, the Queen's new Prime Minister, John Major, is said to have been rather supportive of the Royal family, despite their disastrous decade.

Jonathan Pryce As Prince Philip, Duke Of Edinburgh

Game of Thrones' Jonathan Pryce is headed to Buckingham Palace, replacing Tobias Menzies (another Westeros alum) as Prince Philip. Pryce's long and varied career has seen him in projects such as The Two Popes, the Pirates of the Caribbean series, The Wife, and a slew of Shakespearean plays. With multiple Tony and Olivier Awards under his belt, Pryce is a welcome addition to The Crown's new roster, especially when playing a role so significant to the larger series.

However, which Philip-centric stories Morgan could focus on are a bit difficult to guess, as the Queen's husband began playing less of a public role amidst all of the 1990s drama. The show has previously showcased a certain bond between Philip and his daughter-in-law Diana, so it is possible season 5 will see the fracturing of that relationship (letters suggesting they were angry with one another have been unearthed in recent years). Also during this era, the Windsors' financial strain led to Buckingham Palace opening its doors for public tours. It is likely that Philip - who has been presented as one of the more progressive royals on the show - will be instrumental to that particular storyline, harkening back to the character's role in televising the Queen's coronation and the Royal Family's day-to-day life.

Lesley Manville As Princess Margaret, Countess Of Snowdon

Lesley Manville will be stepping into the role of Princess Margaret, vacated by Helena Bonham Carter after her two-season run. Manville's work in Phantom Thread earned the English actress a handful of accolades, including a 2017 Academy Award nomination. She has also been seen in the Harlots series and in films like Maleficent, All or Nothing, and River. Manville also has an extensive list of onstage credits.

Season 4 of The Crown saw Margaret coming to terms with her diminishing role in the Royal Family as her responsibilities and influence continued to be usurped by a younger generation. Though still an important presence in Queen Elizabeth's life, the Princess was largely sidelined for much of the 1990s. However, during this decade, Princess Margaret saw Peter Townsend for the last time, so it is possible that her former lover - so important to her early storyline - will make a return. Unfortunately, Margaret's health continued to decline during the 1990s, with her suffering two strokes and being confined to a wheelchair. However, since Manville has signed on through the end of the series, the character's death in 2002 will likely not be covered until season 6.

Elizabeth Debicki As Diana, Princess Of Wales

Replacing Emma Corin, Elizabeth Debicki will assume the role of Lady Di, a figure who had achieved a level of unprecedented attention by the early '90s. Fans largely marveled at Debicki's similarities to the Princess of Wales and have been vocally supportive of her casting. Seen in films like Tenet, Widows, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and The Great Gatsby, the Australian actress has been one of Hollywood's fastest-rising stars and it is likely her portrayal in The Crown's newest line of succession will only help take her to new heights.

Of the cast members of the coming season, Debicki may be the one with the most daunting task ahead of her. The Crown often covers historical and news-worthy events surrounding the Royal Family and in the 1990s much of the press centered around the young princess. With her relationship with Charles disintegrating (much to the consternation of her in-laws), Diana sat for a series of interviews with Andrew Morton, who published Diana: Her True Story - In Her Own Words, a book which became a worldwide sensation. A little over a year after her divorce from Charles, Diana was killed in a horrific car accident while fleeing from paparazzi - a tragedy that the series is sure to deal with at some point. However, since Debicki is signed on to season 6, it is possible that Princess Diana's death won't be covered in season 5.

Though only a handful of actors have been announced for The Crown season 5, it is certain that characters like Princess Anne, the Queen Mother, Harry, William, and Prince Charles (Dominic West is reportedly in talks for the role) will be seen again. As far as Prime Ministers go, most - if not all - of the upcoming season will see John Major in the top job but, depending on the years it ends up spanning, it's possible we might see the entrance of Tony Blair. Regardless, judging from who's been announced so far, the Windsor family's story will continue being told with another incredibly talented cast.

*The Crown recasts every 2 seasons. The actor for Prince Charles in season 5 and 6 has yet to be announced.

[papermoonloveslucy]

ELIZABETH TAYLOR

February 27, 1932

Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor was born on February 27, 1932, in Hampstead Garden Suburb, London. She received dual British-American citizenship at birth, as her parents were United States citizens. The family lived in London during Taylor's childhood. In early 1939, the Taylors returned to the United States due to fear of impending war in Europe.

In California, Taylor's mother (a former stage actress) was frequently told that her daughter should audition for films. She made her screen debut in There’s One Born Every Minute (1942). She was ten years old. Two years later she played the leading role in National Velvet.  This launched a meteoric film career that won her two Oscars (1961 and 1967). 

Lucille Ball first met Elizabeth Taylor in an arranged ‘set visit’ during the shooting of 1953′s The Long, Long Trailer.  After that, they appeared twice on the same television shows, but did not share screen time. 

“’A Star Is Born’ World Premiere” (1954) ~ a live television broadcast of the red carpet interviews before film’s world premiere. 

“Sunday Showcase: A Tribute to Eleanor Roosevelt on Her Diamond Jubilee” (1959)

Although she started appearing on television in the early 1950s, her scripted TV debut came in 1970 when Lucille Ball invited her to appear (along with her priceless engagement ring and her actor husband, Richard Burton) on a very special episode of “Here’s Lucy” titled “Lucy Meets the Burtons” (HL S3;E1).  

For this show, a special Guest Star credit was created. Liz got top billing!    Although this episode kicked off the third season, it was filmed much later and moved up as the season premiere airing on September 14, 1970. 

It ultimately became CBS’s highest rated show on the air for the 1971-72 television season.  It was also the best remembered episode of the entire series.

This show’s plot was built around the real-life publicity achieved when Richard Burton bought his wife Elizabeth Taylor a 68 carat Cartier diamond ring worth over a million dollars. Property Master Ken Westcott created two replica rings for the medium and long shots which were crafted from chandelier crystals. Although he wanted to keep one after the shoot, Ball took one and Taylor took the other.

 A thirty minute documentary film “Lucy Meets the Burtons: A Comedic Gem” was included on DVD release of “Here’s Lucy” season 3. It includes interviews with Lucie Arnaz, Carole Cook, and behind the scenes footage.

Although this was their first and last time acting together, Taylor and Ball appeared on several television specials together, although they usually did not share screen time. 

“Dinah!” (1977) ~ Dinah Shore interviews the First Ladies of Entertainment. Taylor is interviewed via remote telephone connection. 

“Happy Birthday, Bob” (1978) ~ 75th birthday salute to Bob Hope at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. Taylor talks about the previous evening’s reception featuring President Jimmy Carter and reads a message from Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh. Taylor talks about Hope’s contributions to the USO.

“General Electric's All-Star Anniversary” (1978)

“Women I Love: Beautiful But Funny” (1982) ~ Bob Hope takes a look back at the beautiful and funny women he has worked with over the years. 

“Bob Hope's Unrehearsed Antics of the Stars” (1984)

“Bob Hope's High-Flying Birthday” (1987)

Elizabeth Taylor’s personal life was no less dramatic than her on screen roles. She was married eight times to seven men, marrying Richard Burton twice. 

Larry Fortensky (1991-1996)

John Warner (1976-1982) 

Richard Burton (1975-1976) 

Richard Burton (1964-1974) 1 child

Eddie Fisher (1959-1964) 

Mike Todd (1957-1958, his death) 1 child

Michael Wilding (1952-1957) 2 children

Conrad Hilton (1950-1951)

Taylor’s later years were spent doing philanthropic work, concentrating on AIDS and LGBTQ rights. Following her conversion to Judaism, Taylor became an active supporter of Jewish and Zionist causes. 

In 2000, Taylor was designated a dame, the female equivalent of knight, on the queen's coveted New Year's list of titles and awards.

"Well, I've always been a 'broad.' Now it's a great honor to be a dame!"

Dame Elizabeth Taylor died on March 23, 2011 of congestive heart failure at age 79. 

TAYLOR MADE! 

Although she may not have appeared, Elizabeth Taylor’s name was mentioned on Lucille Ball’s sitcoms many times. 

In “Lucy is Matchmaker” (ILL S2;E27 ~ May 25, 1953) Elizabeth Taylor’s name is not mentioned, but her face is quickly seen on camera on the cover of a magazine in a newsstand!  

Although her name is never stated, Elizabeth Taylor was clearly one of the influences when Lucy donned “The Black Wig” (ILL S3;E26 ~ April 19, 1954). Taylor sported short dark hair throughout much of the 1950s, including in her latest film at the time, The Girl Who Had Everything. Instead, Lucy gives Italian actresses like Gina Lollobridgida and Anna Magnani the credit. 

In “Ricky’s Movie Offer” (ILL S4;E6 – November 8, 1954) Lucy and Ethel accidentally knock out talent scout Ben Benjamin. Lucy revives him and tries to act casual, as if in mid-conversation. “Do you mean to tell me that Elizabeth Taylor looks just as pretty off screen as she does on?”

In “Hollywood Anniversary” (ILL S4;E24 ~ April 4, 1955) the list of celebrity guests supposedly coming to Lucy’s anniversary party includes Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Wilding, her second husband. 

Incredibly (or perhaps legally), Liz Taylor’s name IS NOT explicitly mentioned in “Lucy Plays Cleopatra” (TLS S2;E1 ~ September 30, 1963) although the premise was clearly influenced by the smash hit film that came out that same year starring Taylor as Cleo. She was the third to play the Egyptian queen on film, after Theda Bara (1917) and Claudette Colbert (1934).  

In “Lucy Goes to a Hollywood Premiere” (TLS S4;E20 ~ February 7, 1966) one of Lucy’s rare movie magazines has a (fictional) article titled “Marriage is Not for Me” (supposedly) written by Elizabeth Taylor when she was 12 years old! By that time, Taylor’s love life was fodder for Hollywood gossip mongers and tabloids. 

In “Lucy Dates Dean Martin” (TLS S4;E21 ~ February 14, 1966)  Eddie Feldman (Dean Martin) says that while Lucy is attractive, she is no Liz Taylor. Or Gina Lollobrigida. Or Brigitte Bardot.

In “Lucy and the Starmaker” (TLS S6;E4 ~ October 2, 1967), after singing for Lucy, Tommy (Frankie Avalon) says he never thought he had more than an average voice. Lucy replies “if that is an average voice Elizabeth Taylor is an average housewife.”  

In “Lucy and Robert Goulet” (TLS S6;E8 ~ October 30, 1967) Lucy Carmichael says she once entered an Elizabeth Taylor look-alike contest and never even heard from them!

In “Lucy and the Lost Star” (TLS S6;E22 ~ February 26, 1968) starring Joan Crawford, Lucy says that “Mr. Mooney wouldn’t lend a dime to Richard Burton even if he left Elizabeth Taylor as collateral.”

In “A Date For Lucy” (HL S1;E19 ~ February 10, 1969) Lucy and Mary Jane fantasize about dream dates for an upcoming soiree. They mention Richard Burton, but add that Elizabeth Taylor wouldn’t approve. 

In “Lucy the Stunt Man” (TLS S4;E5 ~ October 18, 1965), Mr. Mooney jokingly says that he’s testing for the male lead in Liz Taylor’s next picture!

In “Lcuy Goes on Her Last Blind Date” (HL S5;E16 ~ January 8, 1973), when Vanda is trying on the engagement ring Ben gave Lucy, she says “Liz Taylor, eat your heart out.”  

In “Milton Berle is the Life of the Party” (HL S6;E19 ~ February 11, 1974) Elizabeth Taylor is just one of the more than 15 celebrity names mentioned! 

[crowdvscritic]

round up // MARCH + APRIL 21

March and April were a whirlwind of vaccines and awards shows! A full year after we starting staying at home, the end of this weird chapter in recent history seems like it might finally be coming to a close, and this pop culture awards season—typically a time full of fun and glamour—captured our moment weirdly well. (Emphasis on the weird.) This month’s recommendations is filled with more Critic Picks than usual, so without further delay, let’s dive right in...

March + April Crowd-Pleasers

Double Feature — 2018 Action Thrillers: Bad Times at the El Royale + Den of Thieves

In Bad Times at the El Royale (Crowd: 9/10, // Critic: 8/10), Jeff Bridges, Cynthia Erivo, Jon Hamm, Chris Hemsworth, and Dakota Johnson are staying at a motel on the California-Nevada state line full of money, murder, and mystery. In Den of Thieves (Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 6.5/10), Gerard Butler takes on some of the best bank robbers in the world. Whether you like your action with a dose of mystery or the thrills of plot twists, these will fit the bill.

Double Feature — ‘80s Comedies: Caddyshack (1980) + Splash (1984)

In the mood for pure silliness? Take your pick between a mermaid and a gopher! Five years before The Little Mermaid, Tom Hanks fell for Daryl Hannah’s blonde hair and scaly tail, and John Candy was his goofy brother in Splash (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7/10). And four years before Ghostbusters, Bill Murray was the goof on a golf course full of funny people like Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, and Ted Knight in Caddyshack (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 6.5/10).

Double Feature — 1980s Coming-of-Age Films Starring Corey Feldman, Kiefer Sutherland, and Challenging Brother Relationships That Influenced Stranger Things: Stand by Me (1986) + The Lost Boys (1987)

Believe it or not, I had no idea these two ‘80s classics had so much in common when I chose to watch them back-to-back. In Rob Reiner’s adaptation of Stephen King’s Stand by Me (Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 9/10), four kids (Feldman, Jerry O’Connell, River Phoenix, and Wil Wheaton) are following train tracks to find a missing body. In The Lost Boys (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 7/10), Corey Haim and Jason Patric move to a small California town and discover it’s full of ‘80s movie star cameos and…vampires? One is a thoughtful coming-of-age story and one is just bonkers, but both are a great time.

Spaceman by Nick Jonas (2021)

My love for the Jonas Brothers is well-documented, so instead of going down the rabbit hole I started digging at 15, I’ll talk about how Nick Jonas’s latest solo album will likely appeal to a wider audience than just the fans of the brothers’ bombastic pop records. It’s full of catchy tunes you’ll play on repeat and an R&B-influenced album experience about the loneliness we’ve experienced in the last year and how we try to make long-term relationships work.

Ted Lasso (2020- )

I love stories about nice people crushing cruelty and cynicism with relentless kindness, and Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) is the warmest, most dedicated leader this side of Leslie Knope. Be sure to catch up on these witty and sweet 10 episodes before season 2 drops later this summer.

Double Feature — Tony Scott Action Flicks: Enemy of the State (1998) + The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)

Tony Scott’s movies have got explosions and excitement in spades. I love a good man-on-the-run movie, and in Enemy of the State (Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 8/10), Will Smith is running through the streets of D.C. after getting evidence of a politician’s (Jon Voight) part in a murder. I also love a tense story set in a confined space, which is what Denzel Washington is dealing with in The Taking of Pelham 123 (Crowd: 9.5/10 // Critic: 7/10) after a hammy John Travolta takes a New York subway train hostage.

Double Feature — Baseball Movies: The Natural (1984) + Trouble With the Curve (2012)

Sue me—I love baseball movies. Robert Redford plays a fictional all-time great in the early days of the MLB in The Natural (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 9/10), and Clint Eastwood plays a fictional all-time great scout in his late career in Trouble With the Curve (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 7.5/10). If you love baseball or actors like Amy Adams, Glenn Close, Robert Duvall, and Justin Timberlake, these movies are just right here waiting for you.

Nate Bargatze: The Greatest Average American (2021)

Sue me—I enjoy Netflix standup comedy specials that are safe enough to watch with your whole family. That’s exactly the crowd I laughed with over Easter weekend, and while the trailer captures Bargatze’s relaxed vibe, it doesn’t capture how funny he really is.

The Mighty Ducks (1992)

I thought somewhere in my childhood I’d seen at least one of The Mighty Ducks movies, but after watching all three, I think my memories must’ve come from previews on the VHS tapes for other Disney movies I watched over and over again. The original still holds up as an grown-ups, which is why even my parents got sucked in to this family movie while just passing through the living room. Bonus for ‘80s movies lovers: Emilio Estevez is basically continuing Andrew Clark’s story from The Breakfast Club as an adult. Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 6.5/10

Double Feature — New, Dumb Action on Streaming: Godzilla vs. Kong + Thunder Force (2021)

If you want something intelligent, go ahead and skip to the next recommendation, but if you’re looking for something stupid fun, these are ready for you on HBO Max and Netflix. Thunder Force (Crowd: 8.5/10 // Critic: 6/10) follows Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer as they train to become superheroes who take on superhuman sociopaths wreaking havoc on Chicago, and alongside Jason Bateman, they do it with a lot of laughs. Godzilla vs. Kong (Crowd: 9.5/10 // Critic: 5/10) is, um, exactly what it sounds like, so I’ll skip a plot summary and just say it’s exactly what you want from this kind of movie. #TeamKong

3:10 to Yuma (2007)

All you need to know is Russell Crowe is an outlaw, and Christian Bale is the guy who’s got to get him on the train to prison. I also watched the 1957 version, which is also a solid watch if you love classic Westerns. Crowd: 9/10 // Critic: 8/10

Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021)

Marvel’s newest series isn’t nearly as inventive as WandaVision, and it may not land every beat, but it’s worth a watch for the fun new gadgets, Sebastian Stan’s dry joke delivery, and its exploration into themes of what makes a hero and what governments owe their citizens. It’s a pretty satisfying entry in the MCU canon, but I’d also recommend re-watching Captain America: Winter Soldier and Civil War—the canon is getting expansive, and it’s getting trickier every year to keep up with all the backstory.

March + April Critic Picks

Best of 2020 Picks

As per usual, the months leading up to the Oscars becomes a binge period for potential Oscar nominees. In March and April, I watched many of the films that made my Top 20 of 2020, including Boys State, The Father, Judas and the Black Messiah, Let Them All Talk, Minari, Nomadland, On the Rocks, One Night in Miami…, Promising Young Woman, Soul, and Sound of Metal. You can read how I ranked them on my list for ZekeFilm, plus reviews of The Father, Minari, Promising Young Woman, and Soul.

Bonus: If you loved On the Rocks, don’t miss this feature and beautiful photography starring Sofia Coppola, Kirsten Dunst, Elle Fanning, and Rashida Jones for W Magazine. 

Stranger Than Fiction (2006)

What would you do if you started hearing a voice who narrated your every thought and move? If you’re Will Ferrell, you’ll seek out a literary professor (Dustin Hoffman), fall in love (with Maggie Gyllenhaal), and track down the voice (Emma Thompson) who’s making ominous predictions about your future. Stranger Than Fiction is funny thought-provoking, and an unusual but welcome role for Ferrell. Crowd: 9.5/10 // Critic: 9/10

All the Royal Family News

Speaking of stranger than fiction, it’s been a busy few months for the Royal Family. We’ve celebrated 95th birthday of Queen Elizabeth, the 3rd birthday of Prince Louis, and the 10th anniversary of Will and Kate’s marriage. We also lost Prince Philip, and we watched the drama of Harry and Meaghan’s interview with Oprah. No matter what happens to their Crown, I don’t think we’ll ever get over our fascination with the Windsor family. A few pieces worth reading from the last few months:

“In Meghan and Harry’s Interview, Two TV Worlds Collided,” Vulture.com

“The Queen’s Man: Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Dies,” TIME.com

“Obituary: HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” BBC.com

Goodfellas (1990)

One of my film opinions that makes me feel like a phony is that Martin Scorsese just isn’t my cup of tea. He’s brilliant, but his films tend to be long and dark, two qualities that are never my first choice…and somehow Goodfellas still worked for me? Maybe it was the TV edit graciously toning down the violence or maybe it was that Ray Liotta and Joe Pesci were firing on all cylinders, but for some reason this ‘90s classic didn’t suck the joy out of my evening like Scorsese often does. (Bonus: For a Martin Scorsese/Robert De Niro I don’t really recommend, head to the last section of this Round Up.)

Fearless (Taylor’s Version) (2021)

Her voice has only matured, so Taylor Swift revisiting her old albums is like upgrading a blast to the past. Plus, the six new tracks make me feel like 15 crushing on that boy in Spanish class again, and her Grammys performance (just before her third Album of the Year win) was magical and folklore-tastic.

Double Feature — ‘60s Action Classics: The Guns of Navarone (1961) + Planet of the Apes (1968)

The Guns of Navarone (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 8.5/10) follows Gregory Peck and David Niven as they destroy Nazi weapons in the Mediterranean. Planet of the Apes (Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 8.5/10) follows Charlton Heston as he attempts to escape from, well, a planet full of apes. The pacing of ‘60s films doesn’t always hold up, but that’s not the case with this pair. Both are still full of suspense, and you can’t go wrong hanging with casts like these.

Let Him Go (2020)

Kevin Costner and Diane Lane play a farming couple who unexpectedly help raise a boy who lost his biological father—sound familiar? But instead of a superhero origin story, they’re part of a thrilling Western with performances nuanced (Costner and Lane) and showy (Lesley Manville). If I’d watched this before completing my Best of 2020 piece, it likely would’ve been on my list. Crowd: 8/10 // Critic: 8.5/10

The Oscars

I’m a ride-or-die fan of the Academy Awards, but I’ll admit even I found this year’s ceremony odd. Instead of focusing on what wasn’t so hot, I’ll recommend a few moments you don’t want to miss:

Emerald Fennell giving a shout-out to Saved by the Bell

Daniel Kaluuya acknowledging his parents’ sex life during his acceptance speech (??)

Yuh-Jung Yoon flirting with Brad Pitt and acknowledging she’s just “luckier” than her fellow nominees

Glenn Close dancing to…”Da Butt”?

You can also read about the historic wins and nominations from this year’s Oscar class and why the Golden Globes were an even stranger production weeks earlier.

Trailer-palooza!

Movies are on their way back, y’all! I’m counting down the days until I can get back to a theatre, and even if some of these movies are duds, I’m planning to see all of them on a big screen if possible:

Those Who Wish Me Dead (May 14)

Cruella (May 28)

In the Heights (June 11)

Space Jam 2 (July 16)

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (September 3)

West Side Story (December 10)

Also in March + April…

To add to the Oscars love, you can listen to a conversation about what we learn about family, community, and society in some of the year’s biggest nominees on the Uncommon Voices podcast. I join regular hosts Michael and Kenneth in this episode, and I recommend all of their thoughtful discussions on their “What’s Streaming” episodes.

I’ve previously recommended the Do You Like Apples weekly newsletter, so I’m proud to share I contributed twice in March! I wrote about Love and Basketball, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, and one of my all-time favorite Julia Roberts rom-coms, Notting Hill. (I also tied to win their Oscars pool, but I suppose that’s less exciting for you than me.)

It was a busy couple of months on SO IT’S A SHOW! New logo, new email list, new Instagram, and a host of new episodes about a flop of a Madonna flick, a Swedish children’s TV show, an urban legend turned into a horror movie, one of the best films about journalism ever, and a Martin Scorsese movie about a real boxer.

Most of what I wrote for ZekeFilm in March and April was mentioned in Best of 2020 recommendations…except for The Nest, a film that couldn’t figure out what genre it wanted to be.

Photo credits: Nick Jonas, Royal Family. All others IMDb.com.

[littlemuoi]

Duke of Edinburgh praises mental health charity for work with veterans on visit to Telford by Dominic Robertson (November 9th 2023)

ARCHIVE LINK

Prince Edward attended two engagements in Telford on Wednesday afternoon – first a visit to the Army Reserve Centre, before joining a tea party at Dawley Town Hall.

Both events were military-themed, with the Duke meeting cadets at the reserve centre, before meeting agencies and groups which support veterans, gathered together by Telford & Wrekin Council at the town hall, where they also marked the building's 150th birthday.

Joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire, Anna Turner, the Duke talked at length with young people, veterans, and representatives of charities which support them.

The relaxed and light-hearted Duke shared his sense of humour during his visit, joking on arrival into a packed but silent town hall that he had "killed the party".

Unveiling a plaque to mark the hall's anniversary The Duke was introduced by the leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, Councillor Shaun Davies, who shared the history of the hall – and how when it was not allowed to serve alcohol, locals set up a pub nearby.

Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh visits the Army Reserve Centre, Telford. Cadet Lance Corporal Dylan Fugatt is presented with his certificate. LAST COPYRIGHT NATIONAL WORLD PLC TIM THURSFIELD 08/11/23.

Addressing the guests the Duke said: "First of all it was really good to meet you all and thank you for your collective service you have done for this country, it is very, very much appreciated. And thank you to Mind and everyone else who organises these get-togethers for you.

"I am told this is not your typical day for getting together so I apologise if I have completely and totally confused your entire week.

"Anyway I have been asked to unveil this particular plaque, I am guessing a few of you can probably remember when the building opened - forgive me, you remember when the pub opened!"

The Duke of Edinburgh on his visit to Telford's Army Resource Centre.

To a background of laughter the Duke promised to try and make the unveiling "as slick as possible," adding: "I want you to know this has taken years of practice."

During his visit he met representatives from Telford Mind, a mental health charity that supports veterans, and the people who use its services.

The Duke of Edinburgh watches Staff Corporal Declan Poole trying a flight simulator.

He also took time to sit and chat with other groups such as Models for Heroes, and the All Sports Coaches Coaching Academy.

The academy trains veterans to coach youngsters at sports, and provide mental health support, as well as a range of other skills.

The Duke meets representatives from the All sports Coaches Coaching Academy.

The organisation's operation's director, Stuart Cook, who served for five years with the Welsh Guards, was joined by coach Johnny Bradley, who is currently serving with the Royal Irish Regiment, the group's founder Jim Prescott, and chairman Clive Barnard.

Mr Cook, 35, from Telford, said the Duke had been interested in what sports they provided.

He said: "He was having a chat, asking about what sports we like, what we do. Me and Johnny do boxing and he said Johnny has longer arms, 'does that mean he should beat me?'"

The Duke of Edinburgh presents a Long Service Good Conduct award to Sergeant Joel Edwards.

Mr Bradley, 33, explained how the group could make a difference, saying: "I know first-hand how sports can help towards better mental health. I have been through what I have been through myself so to be part of what Jim has put together has really helped me, so now hopefully I can help others."

Telford Mind provides a Monday Club where veterans can chat and support each other, and the Duke talked to a number of people who attend the sessions.

Mind trustee, Trevor Hirst, who served with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), said the Duke had been "funny", "very friendly", and "easy to chat to".

He said: "He asked who I served with and he said he should have recognised from my tie because his wife is a patron of the REME charity."

Cadets giving a gun-run demonstration.

Tom Kane, 65, from Telford, attends the Telford sessions. He came along to the tea party with his dog Harley.

Mr Kane, who spent 30 years in the RAF, said the Duke had asked about Harley.

He said: "He asked what he does for me and I said he tells me when someone is at the door, tells me when the phone rings, and tells me when the missus wants me."

The Duke chatted with the group Models for Heroes – an organisation which allows veterans and people in the services to meet up and build models together.

Gary Morris, who runs the Telford group, was joined by two RAF servicemen who run the RAF Cosford group, Chris King and George Hickish, and other members.

They explained that the Duke had talked about the original Lightning aircraft, saying that when he was at school they would take off and everyone would have to stop talking because the planes were so loud.

Louise Heap, CEO of Telford Mind, said the Duke had asked about what services they provide and how they work, with service manager Jen Caldicott adding: "He just thanked us for the great work we do."

The Duke unveils a plaque marking 150 years of Dawley Town Hall.

Speaking at the conclusion of the visit Councillor Davies said: "It was a real privilege to host the Duke of Edinburgh and to show him first-hand the vital work we do to support the armed services and veterans, it is something we take very seriously.

"He was very personable and able to share not only a story but a joke or two as well.

"And I think everyone who met him at both sites really appreciated his time and effort to come and see us."

The Duke talks with members of the Models for Heroes groups.

The Duke had earlier attended the Army Reserve Centre – the base of D-Squadron, The Royal Yeomanry.

Local cadets also train at the base twice a week.

During his tour the Duke was given a gun-run demonstration from the Army cadets before they provided a live first aid demonstration.

The Duke then presented an award to 15-year-old Lance Corporal Dylan Fugatt from Ellesmere.

The youngster, who was joined by his mum Sharon for the presentation, was being recognised for using first aid skills learned with the cadets to come to the aid of an elderly man who had fallen over in Ellesmere.

Speaking after the presentation Lance Corporal Fugatt said: "It was a bit of a shock at first. I don't think it has sunk in properly yet."

The Duke of Edinburgh was given a first aid demonstration.

He added that the Duke had been "great" and "just like any normal person".

His mother added: "I am so proud. I am very, very proud of how Dylan handled the situation back when it happened but to be recognised in this way, I am more proud for him after his efforts in training, I could not be more proud."

The group were joined by the Duke for a photo at the end of his Dawley Town Hall visit.

The Duke was also shown laser shooting, had a go at tying knots with Navy Cadets, and then saw young Air Cadets trying their hand at flight simulators and virtual reality kit, before presenting a Long Service Good Conduct award to Sergeant Joel Edwards.

[bongaboi]

2021 Primetime Emmy Awards: The List.

Outstanding Comedy Series Outstanding Drama Series

Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)

Black-ish (ABC)

Cobra Kai (Netflix)

Emily in Paris (Netflix)

The Flight Attendant (HBO Max)

Hacks (HBO Max)

The Kominsky Method (Netflix)

PEN15 (Hulu)

The Crown (Netflix)

The Boys (Prime Video)

Bridgerton (Netflix)

The Handmaid's Tale (Hulu)

Lovecraft Country (HBO)

The Mandalorian (Disney+)

Pose (FX)

This Is Us (NBC)

Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series Outstanding Competition Program

The Queen's Gambit (Netflix)

I May Destroy You (HBO)

Mare of Easttown (HBO)

The Underground Railroad (Prime Video)

WandaVision (Disney+)

RuPaul's Drag Race (VH1)

The Amazing Race (CBS)

Nailed It! (Netflix)

Top Chef (Bravo)

The Voice (NBC)

Outstanding Variety Talk Series Outstanding Variety Sketch Series

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

Conan (TBS)

The Daily Show with Trevor Noah (Comedy Central)

Jimmy Kimmel Live! (ABC)

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (CBS)

Saturday Night Live (NBC)

A Black Lady Sketch Show (HBO)

Outstanding Variety Special (Live) Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded)

Stephen Colbert's Election Night 2020: Democracy's Last Stand Building Back America Great Again Better 2020 (Showtime)

Celebrating America – An Inauguration Night Special (Multiple Platforms)

The 63rd Annual Grammy Awards (CBS)

The Oscars (ABC)

The Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show Starring The Weeknd (CBS)

Hamilton (Disney+)

Bo Burnham: Inside (Netflix)

David Byrne's American Utopia (HBO)

8:46 – Dave Chappelle (Netflix)

Friends: The Reunion (HBO Max)

A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote (HBO Max)

Acting

Lead performances

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Pilot") (Apple TV+)

Anthony Anderson as Andre "Dre" Johnson, Sr. on Black-ish (Episode: "What About Gary?") (ABC)

Michael Douglas as Sandy Kominsky on The Kominsky Method (Episode: "Chapter 20. The round toes, of the high shoes") (Netflix)

William H. Macy as Frank Gallagher on Shameless (Episode: "Father Frank, Full of Grace") (Showtime)

Kenan Thompson as Kenan Williams on Kenan (Episode: "Flirting") (NBC)

Jean Smart as Deborah Vance on Hacks (Episode: "1.69 Million") (HBO Max)

Aidy Bryant as Annie Easton on Shrill (Episode: "Ranchers") (Hulu)

Kaley Cuoco as Cassie Bowden on The Flight Attendant (Episode: "In Case of Emergency") (HBO Max)

Allison Janney as Bonnie Plunkett on Mom (Episode: "My Kinda People and the Big To-Do") (CBS)

Tracee Ellis Ross as Dr. Rainbow "Bow" Johnson on Black-ish (Episode: "Babes in Boyland") (ABC)

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

Josh O'Connor as Prince Charles on The Crown (Episode: "Terra Nullius") (Netflix)

Sterling K. Brown as Randall Pearson on This Is Us (Episode: "Forty: Part 2") (NBC)

Jonathan Majors as Atticus Freeman on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Sundown") (HBO)

Regé-Jean Page as Simon Basset on Bridgerton (Episode: "Art of the Swoon") (Netflix)

Billy Porter as Pray Tell on Pose (Episode: "Take Me To Church") (FX)

Matthew Rhys as Perry Mason on Perry Mason (Episode: "Chapter 8") (HBO)

Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth II on The Crown (Episode: "48:1") (Netflix)

Uzo Aduba as Dr. Brooke Taylor on In Treatment (Episode: "Brooke – Week 5") (HBO)

Emma Corrin as Princess Diana on The Crown (Episode: "Fairytale") (Netflix)

Elisabeth Moss as June Osborne / Offred on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home") (Hulu)

Mj Rodriguez as Blanca Evangelista on Pose (Episode: "Series Finale") (FX)

Jurnee Smollett as Letitia "Leti" Lewis on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Holy Ghost") (HBO)

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Ewan McGregor as Halston on Halston (Netflix)

Paul Bettany as Vision on WandaVision (Disney+)

Hugh Grant as Jonathan Fraser on The Undoing (HBO)

Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton on Hamilton (Disney+)

Leslie Odom Jr. as Aaron Burr on Hamilton (Disney+)

Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan on Mare of Easttown (HBO)

Michaela Coel as Arabella on I May Destroy You (HBO)

Cynthia Erivo as Aretha Franklin on Genius: Aretha (National Geographic)

Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch on WandaVision (Disney+)

Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon on The Queen's Gambit (Netflix)

Supporting performances

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Brett Goldstein as Roy Kent on Ted Lasso (Episode: "All Apologies") (Apple TV+)

Carl Clemons-Hopkins as Marcus Vaughan on Hacks (Episode: "New Eyes") (HBO Max)

Brendan Hunt as Coach Beard on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Two Aces") (Apple TV+)

Nick Mohammed as Nathan Shelley on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Make Rebecca Great Again") (Apple TV+)

Paul Reiser as Martin Schneider on The Kominsky Method (Episode: "Chapter 18. You only give me your funny paper") (Netflix)

Jeremy Swift as Leslie Higgins on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Biscuits") (Apple TV+)

Kenan Thompson as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Dave Chappelle") (NBC)

Bowen Yang as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Carey Mulligan") (NBC)

Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca Welton on Ted Lasso (Episode: "All Apologies") (Apple TV+)

Aidy Bryant as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Regé-Jean Page") (NBC)

Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels on Hacks (Episode: "I Think She Will") (HBO Max)

Kate McKinnon as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Bill Burr") (NBC)

Rosie Perez as Megan Briscoe on The Flight Attendant (Episode: "Arrivals and Departures") (HBO Max)

Cecily Strong as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Anya Taylor-Joy") (NBC)

Juno Temple as Keeley Jones on Ted Lasso (Episode: "For the Children") (Apple TV+)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Tobias Menzies as Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh on The Crown (Episode: "Gold Stick") (Netflix)

Giancarlo Esposito as Moff Gideon on The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 16: The Rescue") (Disney+)

O-T Fagbenle as Luke Bankole on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home") (Hulu)

John Lithgow as Elias Birchard "E.B." Jonathan on Perry Mason (Episode: "Chapter 4") (HBO)

Max Minghella as Commander Nick Blaine on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "The Crossing") (Hulu)

Chris Sullivan as Toby Damon on This Is Us (Episode: "In the Room") (NBC)

Bradley Whitford as Commander Joseph Lawrence on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Testimony") (Hulu)

Michael K. Williams as Montrose Freeman on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Rewind 1921") (HBO) (posthumous)

Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher on The Crown (Episode: "Favourites") (Netflix)

Helena Bonham Carter as PrincesOutstanding Comedy Series

Outstanding Drama Series

• Ted Lasso (Apple TV+)

o Black-ish (ABC)

o Cobra Kai (Netflix)

o Emily in Paris (Netflix)

o The Flight Attendant (HBO Max)

o Hacks (HBO Max)

o The Kominsky Method (Netflix)

o PEN15 (Hulu)

• The Crown (Netflix)

o The Boys (Prime Video)

o Bridgerton (Netflix)

o The Handmaid's Tale (Hulu)

o Lovecraft Country (HBO)

o The Mandalorian (Disney+)

o Pose (FX)

o This Is Us (NBC)

Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series

Outstanding Competition Program

• The Queen's Gambit (Netflix)

o I May Destroy You (HBO)

o Mare of Easttown (HBO)

o The Underground Railroad (Prime Video)

o WandaVision (Disney+)

• RuPaul's Drag Race (VH1)

o The Amazing Race (CBS)

o Nailed It! (Netflix)

o Top Chef (Bravo)

o The Voice (NBC)

Outstanding Variety Talk Series

Outstanding Variety Sketch Series

• Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

o Conan (TBS)

o The Daily Show with Trevor Noah (Comedy Central)

o Jimmy Kimmel Live! (ABC)

o The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (CBS)

• Saturday Night Live (NBC)

o A Black Lady Sketch Show (HBO)

Outstanding Variety Special (Live)

Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded)

• Stephen Colbert's Election Night 2020: Democracy's Last Stand Building Back America Great Again Better 2020 (Showtime)

o Celebrating America – An Inauguration Night Special (Multiple Platforms)

o The 63rd Annual Grammy Awards (CBS)

o The Oscars (ABC)

o The Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show Starring The Weeknd (CBS)

• Hamilton (Disney+)

o Bo Burnham: Inside (Netflix)

o David Byrne's American Utopia (HBO)

o 8:46 – Dave Chappelle (Netflix)

o Friends: The Reunion (HBO Max)

o A West Wing Special to Benefit When We All Vote (HBO Max)

Acting

Lead performances

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

• Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Pilot") (Apple TV+)

o Anthony Anderson as Andre "Dre" Johnson, Sr. on Black-ish (Episode: "What About Gary?") (ABC)

o Michael Douglas as Sandy Kominsky on The Kominsky Method (Episode: "Chapter 20. The round toes, of the high shoes") (Netflix)

o William H. Macy as Frank Gallagher on Shameless (Episode: "Father Frank, Full of Grace") (Showtime)

o Kenan Thompson as Kenan Williams on Kenan (Episode: "Flirting") (NBC) • Jean Smart as Deborah Vance on Hacks (Episode: "1.69 Million") (HBO Max)

o Aidy Bryant as Annie Easton on Shrill (Episode: "Ranchers") (Hulu)

o Kaley Cuoco as Cassie Bowden on The Flight Attendant (Episode: "In Case of Emergency") (HBO Max)

o Allison Janney as Bonnie Plunkett on Mom (Episode: "My Kinda People and the Big To-Do") (CBS)

o Tracee Ellis Ross as Dr. Rainbow "Bow" Johnson on Black-ish (Episode: "Babes in Boyland") (ABC)

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

• Josh O'Connor as Prince Charles on The Crown (Episode: "Terra Nullius") (Netflix)

o Sterling K. Brown as Randall Pearson on This Is Us (Episode: "Forty: Part 2") (NBC)

o Jonathan Majors as Atticus Freeman on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Sundown") (HBO)

o Regé-Jean Page as Simon Basset on Bridgerton (Episode: "Art of the Swoon") (Netflix)

o Billy Porter as Pray Tell on Pose (Episode: "Take Me To Church") (FX)

o Matthew Rhys as Perry Mason on Perry Mason (Episode: "Chapter 8") (HBO) • Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth II on The Crown (Episode: "48:1") (Netflix)

o Uzo Aduba as Dr. Brooke Taylor on In Treatment (Episode: "Brooke – Week 5") (HBO)

o Emma Corrin as Princess Diana on The Crown (Episode: "Fairytale") (Netflix)

o Elisabeth Moss as June Osborne / Offred on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home") (Hulu)

o Mj Rodriguez as Blanca Evangelista on Pose (Episode: "Series Finale") (FX)

o Jurnee Smollett as Letitia "Leti" Lewis on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Holy Ghost") (HBO)

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

• Ewan McGregor as Halston on Halston (Netflix)

o Paul Bettany as Vision on WandaVision (Disney+)

o Hugh Grant as Jonathan Fraser on The Undoing (HBO)

o Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton on Hamilton (Disney+)

o Leslie Odom Jr. as Aaron Burr on Hamilton (Disney+)

• Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan on Mare of Easttown (HBO)

o Michaela Coel as Arabella on I May Destroy You (HBO)

o Cynthia Erivo as Aretha Franklin on Genius: Aretha (National Geographic)

o Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch on WandaVision (Disney+)

o Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon on The Queen's Gambit (Netflix)

Supporting performances

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

• Brett Goldstein as Roy Kent on Ted Lasso (Episode: "All Apologies") (Apple TV+)

o Carl Clemons-Hopkins as Marcus Vaughan on Hacks (Episode: "New Eyes") (HBO Max)

o Brendan Hunt as Coach Beard on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Two Aces") (Apple TV+)

o Nick Mohammed as Nathan Shelley on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Make Rebecca Great Again") (Apple TV+)

o Paul Reiser as Martin Schneider on The Kominsky Method (Episode: "Chapter 18. You only give me your funny paper") (Netflix)

o Jeremy Swift as Leslie Higgins on Ted Lasso (Episode: "Biscuits") (Apple TV+)

o Kenan Thompson as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Dave Chappelle") (NBC)

o Bowen Yang as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Carey Mulligan") (NBC) • Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca Welton on Ted Lasso (Episode: "All Apologies") (Apple TV+)

o Aidy Bryant as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Regé-Jean Page") (NBC)

o Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels on Hacks (Episode: "I Think She Will") (HBO Max)

o Kate McKinnon as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Bill Burr") (NBC)

o Rosie Perez as Megan Briscoe on The Flight Attendant (Episode: "Arrivals and Departures") (HBO Max)

o Cecily Strong as Various Characters on Saturday Night Live (Episode: "Host: Anya Taylor-Joy") (NBC)

o Juno Temple as Keeley Jones on Ted Lasso (Episode: "For the Children") (Apple TV+)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

• Tobias Menzies as Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh on The Crown (Episode: "Gold Stick") (Netflix)

o Giancarlo Esposito as Moff Gideon on The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 16: The Rescue") (Disney+)

o O-T Fagbenle as Luke Bankole on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home") (Hulu)

o John Lithgow as Elias Birchard "E.B." Jonathan on Perry Mason (Episode: "Chapter 4") (HBO)

o Max Minghella as Commander Nick Blaine on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "The Crossing") (Hulu)

o Chris Sullivan as Toby Damon on This Is Us (Episode: "In the Room") (NBC)

o Bradley Whitford as Commander Joseph Lawrence on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Testimony") (Hulu)

o Michael K. Williams as Montrose Freeman on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Rewind 1921") (HBO) (posthumous) • Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher on The Crown (Episode: "Favourites") (Netflix)

o Helena Bonham Carter as Princess Margaret on The Crown (Episode: "The Hereditary Principle") (Netflix)

o Madeline Brewer as Janine Lindo on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Testimony") (Hulu)

o Ann Dowd as Aunt Lydia on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Progress") (Hulu)

o Aunjanue Ellis as Hippolyta Freeman on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "I Am.") (HBO)

o Emerald Fennell as Camilla Parker Bowles on The Crown (Episode: "Fairytale") (Netflix)

o Yvonne Strahovski as Serena Joy Waterford on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home") (Hulu)

o Samira Wiley as Moira on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Vows") (Hulu)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

• Evan Peters as Det. Colin Zabel on Mare of Easttown (Episode: "Enter Number Two") (HBO)

o Thomas Brodie-Sangster as Benny Watts on The Queen's Gambit (Episode: "Adjournment") (Netflix)

o Daveed Diggs as Marquis de Lafayette / Thomas Jefferson on Hamilton (Disney+)

o Paapa Essiedu as Kwame on I May Destroy You (Episode: "That Was Fun") (HBO)

o Jonathan Groff as King George on Hamilton (Disney+)

o Anthony Ramos as John Laurens / Philip Hamilton on Hamilton (Disney+) • Julianne Nicholson as Lori Ross on Mare of Easttown (Episode: "Sacrament") (HBO)

o Renée Elise Goldsberry as Angelica Schuyler on Hamilton (Disney+)

o Kathryn Hahn as Agatha Harkness / Agnes The Nosy Neighbor on WandaVision (Episode: "Breaking the Fourth Wall") (Disney+)

o Moses Ingram as Jolene on The Queen's Gambit (Episode: "End Game") (Netflix)

o Jean Smart as Helen Fahey on Mare of Easttown (Episode: "Sacrament") (HBO)

o Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton on Hamilton (Disney+)

Directing

Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series

Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series

• Hacks (Episode: "There Is No Line"), Directed by Lucia Aniello (HBO Max)

o B Positive (Episode: "Pilot"), Directed by James Burrows (CBS)

o The Flight Attendant (Episode: "In Case of Emergency"), Directed by Susanna Fogel (HBO Max)

o Mom (Episode: "Scooby-Doo Checks and Salisbury Steak"), Directed by James Widdoes (CBS)

o Ted Lasso (Episode: "Biscuits"), Directed by Zach Braff (Apple TV+)

o Ted Lasso (Episode: "The Hope that Kills You"), Directed by MJ Delaney (Apple TV+)

o Ted Lasso (Episode: "Make Rebecca Great Again"), Directed by Declan Lowney (Apple TV+)

• The Crown (Episode: "War"), Directed by Jessica Hobbs (Netflix)

o Bridgerton (Episode: "Diamond of the First Water"), Directed by Julie Anne Robinson (Netflix)

o The Crown (Episode: "Fairytale"), Directed by Benjamin Caron (Netflix)

o The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "The Wilderness"), Directed by Liz Garbus (Hulu)

o The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 9: The Marshal"), Directed by Jon Favreau (Disney+)

o Pose (Episode: "Series Finale"), Directed by Steven Canals (FX)

Outstanding Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

• The Queen's Gambit, Directed by Scott Frank (Netflix)

o Hamilton, Directed by Thomas Kail (Disney+)

o I May Destroy You (Episode: "Ego Death"), Directed by Sam Miller and Michaela Coel (HBO)

o I May Destroy You (Episode: "Eyes Eyes Eyes Eyes"), Directed by Sam Miller (HBO)

o Mare of Easttown, Directed by Craig Zobel (HBO)

o The Underground Railroad, Directed by Barry Jenkins (Prime Video)

o WandaVision, Directed by Matt Shakman (Disney+)

Writing

Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series

Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series

• Hacks (Episode: "There Is No Line"), Written by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky (HBO Max)

o The Flight Attendant (Episode: "In Case of Emergency"), Written by Steve Yockey (HBO Max)

o Girls5eva (Episode: "Pilot"), Written by Meredith Scardino (Peacock)

o PEN15 (Episode: "Play"), Written by Maya Erskine (Hulu)

o Ted Lasso (Episode: "Make Rebecca Great Again"), Written by Joe Kelly, Brendan Hunt, and Jason Sudeikis (Apple TV+)

o Ted Lasso (Episode: "Pilot"), Written by Jason Sudeikis, Bill Lawrence, Brendan Hunt, and Joe Kelly (Apple TV+) • The Crown (Episode: "War"), Written by Peter Morgan (Netflix)

o The Boys (Episode: "What I Know"), Written by Rebecca Sonnenshine (Prime Video)

o The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home"), Written by Yahlin Chang (Hulu)

o Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Sundown"), Written by Misha Green (HBO)

o The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 13: The Jedi"), Written by Dave Filoni (Disney+)

o The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 16: The Rescue"), Written by Jon Favreau (Disney+)

o Pose (Episode: "Series Finale"), Written by Steven Canals, Brad Falchuk, Our Lady J, Janet Mock, and Ryan Murphy (FX)

Outstanding Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series

• I May Destroy You, Written by Michaela Coel (HBO)

o Mare of Easttown, Written by Brad Ingelsby (HBO)

o The Queen's Gambit, Written by Scott Frank (Netflix)

o WandaVision (Episode: "All-New Halloween Spooktacular!"), Written by Chuck Hayward and Peter Cameron (Disney+)

o WandaVision (Episode: "Filmed Before a Live Studio Audience"), Written by Jac Schaeffer (Disney+)

o WandaVision (Episode: "Previously On"), Written by Laura Donney (Disney+) • Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

o The Amber Ruffin Show (Peacock)

o A Black Lady Sketch Show (HBO)

o The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (CBS)

o Saturday Night Live (NBC)

s Margaret on The Crown (Episode: "The Hereditary Principle") (Netflix)

Madeline Brewer as Janine Lindo on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Testimony") (Hulu)

Ann Dowd as Aunt Lydia on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Progress") (Hulu)

Aunjanue Ellis as Hippolyta Freeman on Lovecraft Country (Episode: "I Am.") (HBO)

Emerald Fennell as Camilla Parker Bowles on The Crown (Episode: "Fairytale") (Netflix)

Yvonne Strahovski as Serena Joy Waterford on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home") (Hulu)

Samira Wiley as Moira on The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Vows") (Hulu)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

Evan Peters as Det. Colin Zabel on Mare of Easttown (Episode: "Enter Number Two") (HBO)

Thomas Brodie-Sangster as Benny Watts on The Queen's Gambit (Episode: "Adjournment") (Netflix)

Daveed Diggs as Marquis de Lafayette / Thomas Jefferson on Hamilton (Disney+)

Paapa Essiedu as Kwame on I May Destroy You (Episode: "That Was Fun") (HBO)

Jonathan Groff as King George on Hamilton (Disney+)

Anthony Ramos as John Laurens / Philip Hamilton on Hamilton (Disney+)

Julianne Nicholson as Lori Ross on Mare of Easttown (Episode: "Sacrament") (HBO)

Renée Elise Goldsberry as Angelica Schuyler on Hamilton (Disney+)

Kathryn Hahn as Agatha Harkness / Agnes The Nosy Neighbor on WandaVision (Episode: "Breaking the Fourth Wall") (Disney+)

Moses Ingram as Jolene on The Queen's Gambit (Episode: "End Game") (Netflix)

Jean Smart as Helen Fahey on Mare of Easttown (Episode: "Sacrament") (HBO)

Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton on Hamilton (Disney+)

Directing

Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series

Hacks (Episode: "There Is No Line"), Directed by Lucia Aniello (HBO Max)

B Positive (Episode: "Pilot"), Directed by James Burrows (CBS)

The Flight Attendant (Episode: "In Case of Emergency"), Directed by Susanna Fogel (HBO Max)

Mom (Episode: "Scooby-Doo Checks and Salisbury Steak"), Directed by James Widdoes (CBS)

Ted Lasso (Episode: "Biscuits"), Directed by Zach Braff (Apple TV+)

Ted Lasso (Episode: "The Hope that Kills You"), Directed by MJ Delaney (Apple TV+)

Ted Lasso (Episode: "Make Rebecca Great Again"), Directed by Declan Lowney (Apple TV+)

The Crown (Episode: "War"), Directed by Jessica Hobbs (Netflix)

Bridgerton (Episode: "Diamond of the First Water"), Directed by Julie Anne Robinson (Netflix)

The Crown (Episode: "Fairytale"), Directed by Benjamin Caron (Netflix)

The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "The Wilderness"), Directed by Liz Garbus (Hulu)

The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 9: The Marshal"), Directed by Jon Favreau (Disney+)

Pose (Episode: "Series Finale"), Directed by Steven Canals (FX)

Outstanding Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie

The Queen's Gambit, Directed by Scott Frank (Netflix)

Hamilton, Directed by Thomas Kail (Disney+)

I May Destroy You (Episode: "Ego Death"), Directed by Sam Miller and Michaela Coel (HBO)

I May Destroy You (Episode: "Eyes Eyes Eyes Eyes"), Directed by Sam Miller (HBO)

Mare of Easttown, Directed by Craig Zobel (HBO)

The Underground Railroad, Directed by Barry Jenkins (Prime Video)

WandaVision, Directed by Matt Shakman (Disney+)

Writing

Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series

Hacks (Episode: "There Is No Line"), Written by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky (HBO Max)

The Flight Attendant (Episode: "In Case of Emergency"), Written by Steve Yockey (HBO Max)

Girls5eva (Episode: "Pilot"), Written by Meredith Scardino (Peacock)

PEN15 (Episode: "Play"), Written by Maya Erskine (Hulu)

Ted Lasso (Episode: "Make Rebecca Great Again"), Written by Joe Kelly, Brendan Hunt, and Jason Sudeikis (Apple TV+)

Ted Lasso (Episode: "Pilot"), Written by Jason Sudeikis, Bill Lawrence, Brendan Hunt, and Joe Kelly (Apple TV+)

The Crown (Episode: "War"), Written by Peter Morgan (Netflix)

The Boys (Episode: "What I Know"), Written by Rebecca Sonnenshine (Prime Video)

The Handmaid's Tale (Episode: "Home"), Written by Yahlin Chang (Hulu)

Lovecraft Country (Episode: "Sundown"), Written by Misha Green (HBO)

The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 13: The Jedi"), Written by Dave Filoni (Disney+)

The Mandalorian (Episode: "Chapter 16: The Rescue"), Written by Jon Favreau (Disney+)

Pose (Episode: "Series Finale"), Written by Steven Canals, Brad Falchuk, Our Lady J, Janet Mock, and Ryan Murphy (FX)

Outstanding Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series

I May Destroy You, Written by Michaela Coel (HBO)

Mare of Easttown, Written by Brad Ingelsby (HBO)

The Queen's Gambit, Written by Scott Frank (Netflix)

WandaVision (Episode: "All-New Halloween Spooktacular!"), Written by Chuck Hayward and Peter Cameron (Disney+)

WandaVision (Episode: "Filmed Before a Live Studio Audience"), Written by Jac Schaeffer (Disney+)

WandaVision (Episode: "Previously On"), Written by Laura Donney (Disney+)

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

The Amber Ruffin Show (Peacock)

A Black Lady Sketch Show (HBO)

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (CBS)

Saturday Night Live (NBC)

[lactosefreevanillayoghurt]

I'm sorry to be sort of basic with questions but uhh how's your day going so far? What are you doing rn? :0

Also, while I'm here! I wanted to say that you can absolutely write something for the soldier poet king au (I should shorten that au name maybe-)!!! It would be an absolute honor (the tag is #wattsoldierpoetkingau if you need it)! :]

Anyways bye hope you have a great rest of your day!

HELLO ILY

look i have a confession- i got this ask and was like omg!!!! ari!!! ,,,,and then immediately fell asleep and have been working non stop for the past few days so i am sO sorry it has taken me this long to answer you ilysm aaaaa

this is so sweet omg hi i am doing okay thank you i'm very busy at the moment, this past weekend i did my expedition for my duke of edinburgh award i walked for twelve hours over two days and my feet are v sore, i have a big drama exam a week today and i am v excited but also a bit nervous about it and then i have two weeks of exams at the beginning of june so yea!! work and dance is kind of my only life right now but that's okay!!! we're getting along i have a headache rn and am answering this when i'm meant to be writing a photography review but yeah!!! how are you? i hope you're doing good this ask made me so so happy

aLSO!!! soldier poet king au!!!!! i have been thinking about it non stop for the past few days it's the only thing on my mind right now i even wrote a few sentences on the bus home today i was that excited about it. please, message me any time with ideas or headcanons or anything i would loVE to talk more about it i'm completely invested

and to say bye for now before i go finish my work for tonight, here! have a few sentences from a split world oneshot i'm desperate to write for The Au™

"Riley Williams is the captain of Giles Corey High School's cheerleading team. She likes routines, control and strawberry ice cream. Under her leadership, the team will rise from being the worst to being one of the best - she's certain of it. In her mind, she is definitely a hero, one of her team, one of her fellow cheerleaders, one of her school. Some might even say a king."

!!!! ily thanks for the ask i hope this is a satisfactory answer have a lovely day aaaa <3

[trh-thesussexes]

Inside Duchess Meghan’s Emotional Farewell to Royal Life at a Private Engagement

It was supposed to be a quiet day off in the countryside until my phone went berserk—the staccato buzz I set for palace correspondence almost sending it off the table. “His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle,” the November 27, 2017, email read, followed by a note inviting royal correspondents to join the couple for a special photo call to mark the occasion. A few road rules may have been bent to make the 80-ish mile drive from Oxfordshire to Kensington Palace—in traffic—but it was worth it. Standing by the lily-covered Sunken Pond as Harry shared his joy at finally finding his teammate, it was the perfect start to a chapter that would finally bring the royal family into the 21st century. Over the months and years that followed, I closely shadowed the work of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, getting to know the couple better through their humanitarian endeavors, engagements, and overseas visits. Their high-energy work ethic and passion for social justice attracted a new, more diverse demographic of royal watcher to the scene. As a young(ish), biracial royal correspondent, the change was exciting. And as their popularity grew around the world, so did a new golden era for the House of Windsor. Never did I expect that less than two and half years later I would be standing in one of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace as the Duchess of Sussex emotionally bids much-loved aides farewell, with her flight “home” to Canada leaving in a matter of hours. But then, neither did the couple. After starting the year with a formal proposal to move into part-time working royal roles, and bring some much-needed privacy and safety to their family life, Harry and Meghan’s hopes were quickly dashed by an institution seemingly unable to accept change as a viable option (even though some royals across Europe—and even other members of the British royal family—have succeeded in balancing duties to the crown and individual careers). To say they were crushed is an understatement. It’s a decision that the couple still feel wasn’t necessary, but also wasn’t a surprise, given the lack of support they received as they were relentlessly attacked by sections of the British press with almost daily mistruths and hateful commentary. While recent tabloid coverage has made it seem like the Sussexes’ half-in-half-out bid was about wanting it all, the reality was a couple who were left with no other choice but to create their own change after being left to fend for themselves against impossible circumstances—even during her pregnancy. They knew something had to change, but they also didn’t want to stop supporting the queen. One can’t help but wonder if things might have been different if a family member or two had stood up for them during the darkest times. Despite the pain and difficulties behind the scenes, work has continued to be a priority for the duchess, who is excited to be carrying over her four royal patronages into the Sussexes’ new chapter. It’s also the reason why I was at Buckingham Palace's 1844 Room on Monday, having been invited alongside two other journalists to cover Meghan’s final engagement as a senior working royal: meeting 22 students who have received scholarships from the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU). As their royal patron—a role she took over from the queen in 2019—Meghan will continue to prioritize the organization even after officially stepping back on March 31, especially given her position as the vice president of the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust and a former scholarship student herself. In fact, Meghan’s time at Illinois’s prestigious Northwestern University, where she majored in international relations and theater, is what drew her to the ACU in the first place. “The value and importance of higher education is why it should be accessible to everyone, no matter your background,” she says. For Commonwealth Day, March 9, the ACU brought together some of their brightest minds for a private meeting with the duchess, ahead of their attendance at Westminster Abbey’s Commonwealth Service, where some would bear the flags of their countries. The students are all studying masters or PhDs in the U.K. after receiving scholarships from the ACU’s three programs—Commonwealth Scholars, Chevening Scholars, and the ACU Blue Charter Fellow. “That’s what so powerful,” says Meghan, a long-time champion of the importance of universal access to higher education. “This incredible union and the ability to gain so much knowledge and to be able to take that back home.” Chatting with the scholars, the duchess is eager to hear more about how their studies will contribute to tackling the many challenges our world faces today. As she talks with the students, it becomes clear that she’s already done her research on why each guest was invited. It’s inspiring to seeing someone so prepared for these types of engagements, as opposed to just showing up for the photographs. But Meghan doesn’t know any other way of doing it. “I think it’s so important to actually engage with people,”she explains.“I care about these things!” The ACU has seen over 90,000 scholars come through their administered programs, and those invited to Monday’s meeting represent 11 Commonwealth countries in total. Halima Ali, a lawyer from Kenya who is currently studying for her masters in energy and natural resources law at London’s Queen Mary University, says Meghan’s role as patron is hugely important. “For Commonwealth and also Africa countries,” she says,“to see her, her interest, her participation, means a lot to us.” Meghan seems particularly impressed as she chats with Archana Kaliyaraj Selva Kumar, a chemistry student at Oxford University, who has devoted much of her time to using her research to create a new sustainable energy-storing battery that can help communities back in India without wired power. She is also an advocate for helping more women get into science. “What an incredible role model you are,” Meghan tells her. “And seeing is believing. Others see you and ... seeing someone in that space is so inspiring.” During a conversation with a female PhD student from Kenya, Meghan’s eyes light up when the subject of sustainable travel comes up. “That’s something my husband is incredibly passionate about,” she tells the Sheffield Hallam University student. “During our travels to Botswana and different parts of Africa, we’ve seen the link between tourism and how much money is going outside of the country instead of back to communities. There has to be a symbiotic relationship.” For her own travels with Harry, Meghan prefers to move around in a way that allows them to integrate with the locals. “When we go to Botswana, we grab a backpack and pitch a tent!” Meghan laughs. “It’s not much, but that’s how we like it!” Standing at the side of the room, I spot Secretary General of the ACU Joanna Newman looking on proudly. She came to know the duchess well from their numerous ACU engagements and meetings together, and is excited about their relationship continuing long into the future. “She has been a fantastic amplifier of ACU messages to much broader audiences for us,” she tells me, adding that her patronage has given the ACU coverage in places they could have never reached before, including Harper's BAZAAR. She calls Meghan a powerful spokesperson, recalling how she started public conversations about the lack of Black professors and even period poverty.>“The headlines haven’t been about what our patron is wearing or the official engagement started at this time and ended at that time and there was a cup of tea in the middle, it’s about why we are doing what we do and why ACU exists. She’s been a real champion of the work that universities do.” The ACU meeting came at the end of what Sussex aides have nicknamed a “farewell tour” for Harry and Meghan—a chance to tie up loose ends at the palace while taking on a slew of final royal engagements. The itinerary has been packed, starting when I joined the Duke of Sussex in Edinburgh, Scotland, on February 26 as his sustainable travel initiative, Travalyst, entered its next development phase. The ambitious project will be a key component of the Sussexes’ philanthropic portfolio, and it’s become extremely clear just how important the cause is to Harry, who regularly takes part in meetings behind the scenes. Chatting with him one-on-one recently, I was struck by how knowledgeable he has become in this field; his many trips to Botswana inspired the beginnings of the initiative more than a year ago. As one of the attendees at the Edinburgh work summit whispered to me after his speech, “He’s about to change the game for good.” Reuniting after five days apart, Harry and Meghan’s showstopping arrival at the Endeavour Fund Awards served as a reminder of their ability to command the world’s attention. “Nothing to see here, just Meghan Markle showing the fuck out during her final round of royal duties,” wrote a Twitter user, as the pictures of the couple beaming under their umbrella went viral around the world. Inside the ceremony, the focus was firmly on the veterans being honored, all speaking highly of the duke, or Captain Wales, as he’s better known in the veteran community. It’s that mission to support servicemen and servicewomen that has seen Harry pledge to continue to support the community in his new non-working royal life, not just in the United Kingdom but also in North America too. The first task? Bringing the work of the Endeavour Fund and Invictus Games, both of which he helped establish, closer together. Harry’s lifelong commitment is why Saturday’s Mountbatten Festival of Music was a particularly difficult moment, wearing his Captain General of the Royal Marines uniform for the last time. Giving up his royal duties has resulted in his military honors coming to an end—a particularly tough pill to swallow and something that has been just as difficult for his wife to witness. It is, a source close to the couple tells me, a wound that will take time to heal for Harry. Meghan’s surprise appearance at an East London school for International Women’s Day and more traditional royal engagements such as Harry opening an immersive British motorsport museum alongside Lewis Hamilton (“There's nothing better than officially opening a building that is very much open,” the duke joked about the Silverstone Experience, which first opened its doors in October 2019) that rounded out what has been a roller coaster of a farewell visit for the Sussexes. Getting on with the work has always been what it’s been about for Harry and Meghan, but behind the smiles of the photos has been a vulnerable couple who are still very much hurting. Back at Buckingham Palace, the ACU students now en route to Westminster Abbey and Harry quietly slipping through the door to say hello, the reality—and the emotions—finally set in as I give Meghan a goodbye hug. She’s flying back to Canada on the last commercial flight of the day, eager to be back in Vancouver Island to be there when Archie wakes up. For a couple who only ever wanted to focus on their work and bring good to the world, it seems like an unnecessarily cruel ending to their royal lives. Forced to give up roles they’re incredibly proud of after sacrificing so much to get there. At this point, the grand Drawing Room is almost empty and tears that the duchess had been bravely holding back are free to flow among familiar faces. As she embraces some of the loyal staff she will most likely not see again, I can’t help but feel sad for the dedicated team members whose tireless efforts—to promote the couple’s work, launch landmark projects, and deal with the near-daily crises brought on by tabloid lies—have come to an abrupt end. Compared to other royal households, it was a smaller operation, with less resources than the more sophisticated offices at Clarence House and Kensington Palace, but in the short space of a year since setting up, Team Sussex had become like a family, looking out for the couple as much as they could. While the weeks and months ahead will no doubt present new challenges for the Sussexes, the couple genuinely feel a sense of excitement about what’s to come, which includes the freedom to work at a pace that suits them, no longer weighed down by protocol or threatened by toxic agendas. And while much has been (incorrectly) speculated about specific commercial endeavors they might be taking on, both Harry and Meghan are eager to get stuck into their work, which will still revolve around their humanitarian efforts and helping amplify the voices of young people around the world on a wide gamut of issues. “The terrain may be a little different but their priorities are exactly the same as before,” a well-placed source tells me. “Keeping the family, most importantly Archie, safe is what will make all of this worth it.” (x)

[steampoweredshow]

Dr. Elanor Bell is a senior research scientist at the Australian Antarctic Division where her role combines a passion for conservation and the polar marine environment, with her experience of coordinating multi-national research and translating the outcomes to policy. Throughout her career, Elanor has wintered twice in Antarctica studying some of the smallest organisms on the planet (microbes) and now works on the largest creatures on the planet, Antarctic blue whales.

In our conversation, we talk about microbial ecology, seahorses, whales, and working in Antarctica.

Watch this episode on YouTube. Listen to it on Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Breaker, Castbox, Overcast, Pocket Casts, RadioPublic, or  RSS.

Show Notes

[00:00:45] Elanor's interest in environmental biology. [00:00:57] Wanting to make a difference. [00:01:22] Combining her love of marine biology and plants. [00:02:48] Field work in Scottish woodlands. [00:03:28] Envisioning a future in the tropics. [00:04:11] Discovering the beauty in microbiology. [00:05:46] Discovering polar ecology. [00:06:07] Unexpectedly ending up doing a PhD in Antarctica. [00:07:50] Being far from home in an isolated environment. [00:09:00] Preparing to go to Antarctica. [00:09:07] Intensive scientific training. [00:09:37] Intensive field training for working and living in Antarctica. [00:11:00] Elanor's outdoor passion and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award providing foundations. [00:11:33] The psychological and interpersonal training. [00:12:58] Elanor's experience on her first deployment. [00:13:54] The cold and being out on the ice. [00:15:30] From lakes in Antarctica to seahorses. [00:16:41] Coming time to write up the PhD. [00:17:20] The struggles of writing a PhD. [00:19:03] Needing a literal sea-change from pure science. [00:19:31] Looking for conservation work, something more applied. [00:19:57] An opportunity to work with seahorses in Canada. [00:22:07] Taking chances with new experiences. [00:22:57] Project Seahorse. [00:23:31] The various aspects of conservation work. [00:24:39] Conservation is more than just the message, it's giving back to the communities involved. [00:26:07] The purposes seahorses have been fished for. [00:28:03] Returning to microbial ecology. [00:29:02] Taking a chance on a postdoc in Germany on extremophiles. [00:32:00] The opportunities and flexibility to explore different work. [00:32:50] On the scope and flexibility of postdoctorate work. [00:34:48] Being able to design a marine conservation course incorporating Elanor's past work experiences. [00:35:36] The desire to pursue more applied sciences. [00:35:53] Needing to solve the two-body problem. [00:36:27] Relocating the family to Australia. [00:36:36] Submitting a manuscript as she went into labour. (!!) [00:38:26] Returning to the Australian Antarctic Division to study whales. [00:38:49] Wanting to do research that would contribute to conservation. [00:39:27] Writing job applications with a baby sleeping on you in the middle of the night. [00:41:08] Balancing field work with young children. [00:41:45] The struggles of breastfeeding while travelling for work. [00:42:51] Being able to see the science applied at a policy level. [00:43:09] Timing the longer journeys and being selective about the work related travel. [00:43:28] Combining eco-tourism outreach with research. [00:45:02] Communication with Antarctica is so much easier than it used to be. [00:45:56] Researching minimally invasive techniques for studying marine mammals. [00:46:53] Using sonobuoys for scientific research purposes. [00:48:22] Other methods and technologies used to collect data about whales. [00:49:28] Learning about the populations and population health through biopsies. [00:50:52] Getting a picture of Antarctic Blue Whale population health. [00:52:09] The project is a multidisciplinary study: The whale/krill relationship. [00:53:15] Socialisation and feeding behaviours. [00:54:38] The impact of the krill industry on whales. [00:55:19] How all that ties back in to conservation. [00:56:16] Everything you wanted to know about whale toileting behaviours but were afraid to ask. [00:57:21] The sampling process and analysing the impact of fertilisation. [00:59:27] The cycle of productivity. [01:00:21] The impact of smaller whale populations on local productivity. [01:01:11] Bonus Question 1: What hobby or interest do you have that is most unrelated to your field of work? [01:02:37] Bonus Question 2: Which childhood book holds the strongest memories for you? [01:02:40] Elanor's father reading to them at bedtime. [01:03:07] Elanor's relationship with The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. [01:05:00] Bonus Question 3: What advice you would give someone who wants to do what you do? Or what advice should they ignore? [01:05:09] You don't need a plan, but you should enjoy what you do. [01:05:27] Gone is the ivory tower. [01:06:31] Find a mentor and a support network. [01:07:41] Finding mentors. [01:09:52] Finding out more about Elanor's work.

Topics/Resources/People Mentioned

St Andrew's University

Gatty Marine Laboratory (wiki)

Daintree Forest

Diatom (wiki)

British Antarctic Survey

La Trobe University

Australian Antarctic Division

Duke of Edinburgh's Award

Nottingham University

Project Seahorse

McGill University

The Shedd Aquarium, Chicago

Extremophile (wiki)

Heliozoa (wiki)

Potsdam University

Two-Body Problem (wiki)

Life at Extremes by Elanor Bell (BookDepository)

International Whaling Commission (IWC)

Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR)

The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkein (GoodReads) (BookDepository)

The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkein (GoodReads Book 1) (BookDepository)

Additional Information

Life at Extremes by Elanor Bell (BookDepository)

Connect with Elanor

Australian Antarctic Division

Facebook (@AusAntarctic)

Twitter: (@AusAntarctic)

Instagram: (@AusAntarctic)

Follow STEAM Powered

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[the-trig-and-tonics]

How it all began

Carol had run with her local running group for some time and I was fortunate to join them a couple of years ago. However, once the first lockdown hit, we all had to run on our own. A brief window brought us back together but this was short lived and we soon found the country moving into the tier system.

One of the tier system rules was to allow people to exercise in pairs. Four of us from the group were signed up to run a couple of marathons; one in November, the second in December and it therefore, seemed sensible for the four competitors to form pairs to allow the marathon training to continue. Clive and Emma paired up because they are father and daughter and Carol and I made the other pair.

The first marathon in November was postponed because of the pandemic but the December run went ahead as it was taking place on private land. On a cool, December morning we all found ourselves running around Oulton Park race circuit twelve times under Covid safe restrictions. It was great to be back out running a live race and we all completed the twenty-six miles.

When the whole country went into the second lockdown in January 2021 the rule of two was still in place so Carol and I continued to run together. Virtual races had kept us motivated throughout 2020 but we had bigger plans for the new year. This was our time to join the North Staffs Road Runners Association. Another competition also entered our radar. It was the trig league run by Andrew Vickerman.

Trig? What’s a trig? I had no idea. How had I got to my age not knowing what a trig was? Carol tried to explain but I got mixed up and thought we were talking about way markers. I went home to google. Luckily, my daughter had completed Duke of Edinburgh awards and knew all about trig's so she was able to enlighten me too. For those of you who have no idea what a trig is, then let me explain.

In 1936, the ordnance survey began creating triangulation pillars (trig's) to provide bases for the mapping equipment of the day, the humble theodolite. This was an amazing feat given the times. Teams had to drag all the equipment to make the pillar and perform the measurements to the top of the highest points in Britain (there are a few exceptions). The pillars themselves were used to mount a theodolite and take the necessary readings from a solid base. Teams would then use the measurements to map distances and elevation, building a network of the entire country. They can be seen on OS maps as a blue triangle with a dot in the centre.

But let me return to the trig point premier league. Carol and I duly signed up and began researching what we had let ourselves in for. The season runs from the 1st March to the 31st October 2021. The aim of the competition is to bag as many different, officially recognised trig pillars during the period. The league table is a live update which means as soon as you submit locating a trig it shows on the table. During the season, there will also be a Trig Point Cup, which everyone will be entered into as part of being in the league. People can enter after the season has started, but no favours will be given. As usual, notorious goodies will be given to all completers (Minimum of 10 trigs to qualify). Prizes - Winner (M/F), Cup Winner, Least Visited Trig, Highest Trig, Club (team of 3).

Trig Point Premier League Rules:

1) Each run/walk must be a minimum of 5km. 2) There is no maximum of how many trigs can be bagged per run/walk. 3) Trig point pillars only. 4) A selfie photo must be taken with each bagged trig point. 5) A bag is classed as getting close enough to be in the photo, e.g. must be clearly visible. The organiser’s decision is final. 6) International trig points equal double points (Based outside a person’s country of residence). 7) Obey the countryside code. 8) If required, seek the landowner’s permission.

In the lead up to the league starting there were a couple of weekly competitions to wet our appetite and get a taste of what was to come. The first trig we ran to was situated in Hollington, Staffs. When we reached the footpath and saw the trig over the hedge it was so exciting. We couldn’t believe we’d actually found one. However, it was standing in a field and we couldn’t get near to take a photo. It was a very misty morning so trying to get a photograph over the hedge was not going to work. The trig was lost in the mist. There was only one thing for it. We would have to see if we could get permission to enter the field.

We made our way back down the footpath and proceeded to knock on the farmhouse door. After a short wait, an apprehensive farmer peered out at us and we babbled what we wanted. At first there was a lot of apprehension but after we had convinced the owner that there were not going to be hoards of trig baggers arriving on his door step his mood mellowed and he kindly came out to open the gate and direct us up to the trig.

It was a wonderful feeling, to actually find ourselves standing by a real, concrete trig. Carol, our designated photographer clicked away from all angles and she even gave it a hug. Hug a trig! Could catch on! We knew we’d never get so close to this trig again as we wouldn’t want to knock on the farmer’s door in the future so we wanted to savour every moment. Reluctantly though, we couldn’t justify staying any longer so we made our way back down to the main road leaving our first trig standing proudly at the top of the misty field.

We then had to find our way around the Trigpointing UK website because this is the place to log all trig visits. Carol quickly realised that we needed to think of handle names to use when logging trig's. Carol came up with The Running Farmer’s Wife and then I duly copied her great idea and called myself The Running Nana! The site is used by trig baggers and it is a place for researching information about any trig in the country. People not only log their visits there but they also report on the condition of the trig and provide relevant facts to help other baggers. Carol spends a great deal of time reading these reports and they have definitely helped us in our trig searches.

As novice map readers we have had to go through a steep learning curve. Carol is definitely our driving force. She and her husband Steve have poured over ordnance survey maps at night, highlighting all the local trig's in orange. Carol also had the Trigpointing UK app on her phone and we’ve found ourselves standing in fields, looking at their maps and desperately trying to work out which direction to go in. As a rule of thumb, we found that if we thought it was left then we needed to go right. Somehow though, we managed to find three more trig's before the league started and by now, we were certainly up for the challenge.

We both had birthdays before the league commenced, with Carol’s coming first and she asked for Ordnance Survey maps as a present. After receiving the gifts from Steve we spent time following one of our long Saturday run scouring the maps for trig's. Luckily, I also received three of my own maps for my birthday from John and this meant I could start getting to grips with the workings of the OS maps too.