ronan-keating.com
May 2010
From the official site:
Stephen's a Bestselling Author
Stephen's fantasy novel, The Tree Of Seasons which was released on 13th May has been in the hardback fiction bestsellers list for the last two weeks, debuting at #5 earning him the title of bestselling author. The response to the book has been fantastic and it has been receiving great reviews.
'It didn't take long for us to get totally wrapped up in the fantasy . . . Engaging, exciting and imaginative, this is a delightful read' ***** (Heat )
'This imaginative book is reminiscent of the Narnia tales and reads like an instant classic. Roll on the movie.' ***** (Star )
'A great read whatever your age . . . it's brilliant' (Reveal )
'A fitting tribute to a star who dared to dream' (News of the World )
Huge thanks to everyone who has bought the book so far. The Tree Of Seasons is available through Amazon and all other good online and High Street booksellers.
27 May 2010
From the official site:
Belfast Concert Fan Pre-Sale
Boyzone have added another date to their massive UK and Ireland tour next year! The band will be at Belfast Odyssey Arena on Friday 18th March and there is a special fan pre-sale tomorrow morning (26th May), details of which can be found at www.boyzone.net.
25 May 2010
We support Ronan and his family in this difficult time and wish them all the best.
Because of that we will not post the gossip pages about the marriage split here on the news page.
Ashen-faced Ronan Keating packs his bags and leaves family home after announcing split from wife Yvonne
Not even a pair of dark sunglasses could mask Ronan Keating’s emotions tonight as he moved out of the family home.
Dressed casually in a pair of designer jeans and a jumper, and without the trademark baseball cap he wore earlier, the singer looked visibly distraught over the end of his 12 year marriage to wife Yvonne.
The pained expression on his face said everything.
And summoning all his reserves the 33-year-old singer dared to give one last backward glance at the house before his driver pulled out of the driveway for the last time.
It’s been an emotionally wrought day for the star since he and his
wife announced that they were going their separate ways.
Earlier a devastated Yvonne, 36 was being comforted by Keith Duffy’s wife Lisa and a neighbour over a cup of tea inside her home.
Friends have been left reeling since news of their split emerged just before lunchtime today.
As one family friend outside the house put it: ‘It’s is not a great day.'
He said: ‘I’m just shocked I got the call last night asking to come over to the house, and I found out when I arrived this morning. I’m totally shocked.
The mood in the house is ok at the moment considering. The girls are just consoling her (Yvonne) over a cup of tea in the kitchen.
‘The kids are playing over at a neighbour’s house.'
One can only guess at the mood inside the house as Ronan and Yvonne help their three heartbroken children Jack (11) Marie (9) and Ali, (4) come to terms with the devastating news.
Slowly one by one celebrity friends turned up to comfort the couple.
Just before 6pm Ronan, who wed Yvonne and in 1998, emerged from the house, climbing into the black Range Rover and speeding off.
He returned just 15 minutes later, and made no comment to the media, as he joined Yvonne inside.
In a statement yesterday, the couple said their split had been ‘amicable.’
And the couple remained together in the house for most of the day as they shielded their family from the media glare surrounding their split.
Ronan’s Range Rover and Yvonne’s blue Mini Cooper remained firmly parked in the driveway all day as the couple went to ground.
And a security van remained parked outside the gated house.
Outside security told waiting media: ‘They are making no further comment. They have asked for privacy.’
A neighbour out walking her dog yesterday summed up the sense of shock which has left friends and family of the couple reeling, saying: ‘It comes as such a shock, they always seemed so happy together you’d never think it.
'The first I heard of it was on the radio this morning. You really feel for their three small children.’
The exclusive Abbington estate house in Malahide is home to the rich and famous with Westlife star Nicky Byrne and his wife Georgina also living there.
When the majestic style residences went on sale at the height of the boom they had a price tag of between E3,250,000 and E3,500,000million
The property is set behind walls topped with wrought iron railings, with tall trees and shrubs offering seclusion to the broken hearted star.
Electronically controlled entrance gates also kept unwanted visitors out.
The news comes as it emerged that Keating - who has reformed Boyzone in recent months – had agreed to be a judge on the next series of X Factor in Australia.
That meant he would have been away from home for months, which would have put a huge strain on the couple’s marriage.
And earlier this week, Keating astonishingly admitted he was surprised Yvonne had stayed with him for the last 12 years, as he revealed he can be jealous if the former model goes out without him.
He said: 'I can’t believe Yvonne has stuck with me for so long. I still get incredibly jealous.
'The green-eyed monster rears its ugly head and brings out all my insecurities. I don’t like it if Yvonne is out without me. I just can’t help it.'
The star was left devastated last autumn when his former bandmate Stephen Gately tragically died.
Yesterday the group appeared on show Loose Women to talk about their special tribute to bandmate Stephen Gately, who died last October.
The group are staging a special tribute concert with a number of celebrity guests who will join the band on stage for some one-off special performances.
Boyzone's new single Love Is A Hurricane was released today. It is the second single from album Brother.
The group will be touring the UK in February/March 2011.
From: Daily Mail
(Click on the link to see photos)
20 may 2010
Boyzone return to the Odyssey
BOYZONE will return to the Odyssey Arena on Friday March 18 2011, when they bring their 'Brother' Tour to the city. Tickets go on sale on Thursday May 27 at 9am
'Brother' Tour follows the release of Boyzone's No.1 Album of the same name, an album that saw the four Boyz coming together to pay very special tribute to their friend, companion, wingman and brother; Steo.
The Album is one that the Band is extremely proud of. Upbeat and infectious tracks like the new single 'Love Is A Hurricane' (written by New Radicals front man, Gregg Alexander) sit alongside the soulful 'Let Your Wall Fall Down' and of course the enchanting single 'Gave It All Away' which was written by Mika and features some of the last vocals that Stephen ever recorded.
With their No.1 Album and a new tour scheduled for 2011, a new chapter now begins on the Boyzone journey after the heart-breaking and life-changing experience of losing Stephen Gately – a journey that will celebrate all that was, and more importantly, what is still to come.
The brand new Single 'Love Is A Hurricane' is on release from Monday May 17.
Tickets for Boyzone at the Odyssey Arena on Friday 18 March 2011 are priced £38.00 & £35.50 and go on sale Thursday 27 May at 9am from Odyssey Arena Box Office 9073 9074 and all usual Ticketmaster outlets. Credit card bookings 0844 277 4455 or online at www.ticketmaster.ie
From: Ulster Star
20 may 2010
Ronan Keating and his marriage
Ronan Keating's marriage to model Yvonne had been considered one of the strongest in showbusiness.
The couple became friends as teenagers in Ireland and married in April 1998 while on holiday on the island of Nevis in the Caribbean, after a short romance. The ceremony came shortly after the death of Keating's mother Marie, who suffered from breast cancer.
Keating, 33, has credited Yvonne with helping him get over the death of his mother, but said in an interview last year to coincide with the release of album Songs For My Mother that he still missed her every day.
He set up The Marie Keating Foundation in her memory, which funds mobile cancer awareness units in Ireland.
The Keatings were overjoyed with the birth of their first child Jack within a year of their marriage. He was followed by daughters Marie, named after Keating's mother, and Ali.
Keating said that beginning a relationship with Yvonne led him to give up the one-night stands and wild parties he enjoyed as a young man on tour with Boyzone, saying that at that moment ''everything changed''.
He has previously described Yvonne as his ''rock'', saying that he would be lost without her and has not looked at another woman since they married.
He had been just 16 when he joined Boyzone, after taking part in an open audition in his home city of Dublin, and the band became one of the most successful of the 1990s.
Boyzone reformed in 2007 and performed a sell-out arena tour the following year. The band was hit by the sudden death of member Stephen Gately in October last year but vowed to continue, releasing an album in his memory.
Keating spoke movingly of his friend and bandmate after his death, and was a pallbearer at his funeral, which he attended with the other members of Boyzone.
Keating has also carved out a successful solo career, selling more than 22 million records around the world with hits like Life Is A Rollercoaster and When You Say Nothing At All.
He is in the Guinness Book of Records as the only artist ever to have 30 consecutive top 10 singles in the UK charts.
His career highlights also include winning Ivor Novello and BMI songwriting awards.
In January, it was announced that Keating would front a Sunday show for London radio station Magic 105.4. He is currently taking a break from the show while he concentrates on his music with Boyzone.
Keating has been successful as a television presenter, and will become a judge on the Australian version of the X Factor later this year. He has previously appeared on the UK hit show alongside judge Louis Walsh, the manager of Boyzone.
Keating has also worked with Cancer Research UK and has worked as an ambassador for Christian Aid, and last year climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with other celebrities to raise money for Comic Relief.
From: Telegraph
20 May 2010
The Long Goodbye For Ronan And Yvonne Keating As Split Is Announced
Boyzone singer Ronan Keating and his wife Yvonne have today announced an end to their 12 years of marriage.
The split, which is said to be amicable, comes just months after 33 year old Keating lost his close friend and bandmate Stephen Gately.
A statement issued on the couple's behalf today said: "With great sadness, Ronan and Yvonne Keating today announce their separation. The separation is amicable and they will continue to work together in order to provide the best for their children…The family ask for privacy at this difficult time."
The couple have have three children, Jack, Marie and Ali.
Just days before the split, the boyzone frontman admitted to having rages of jealousy. The Daily Mirror quotes Keating as having said: "I can’t believe Yvonne has stuck with me for so long...I still get incredibly jealous. The green-eyed monster rears its ugly head and brings out all my insecurities...I don’t like it if Yvonne is out without me. I just can’t help it.”
From: The Clare Herald
20 May 2010
Ronan Keating: Boyzone star splits from wife
Boyzone star Ronan Keating has separated from his wife Yvonne after 12 years of marriage, it was announced today.
The split is said to be "amicable" and the pair said they would continue to provide the best for their children.
It comes just months after Keating, 33, lost his close friend and Boyzone bandmate Stephen Gately.
A statement issued on the couple's behalf said: "With great sadness, Ronan and Yvonne Keating today announce their separation.
"The separation is amicable and they will continue to work together in order to provide the best for their children.
"The family ask for privacy at this difficult time."
A spokesman said there would be no further comment.
Keating and his Irish model wife have three children, Jack, Marie and Ali
From: Yorkshire eveningpost
20 May 2010
Ronan Keating splits from his wife
Boyzone star Ronan Keating has separated from his wife Yvonne after 12 years of marriage, it was announced today.
The split is said to be "amicable" and the pair said they would continue to provide the best for their children.
It comes just months after Keating, 33, lost his close friend and Boyzone bandmate Stephen Gately.
A statement issued on the couple's behalf said: "With great sadness, Ronan and Yvonne Keating today announce their separation.
"The separation is amicable and they will continue to work together in order to provide the best for their children.
"The family ask for privacy at this difficult time."
A spokesman said there would be no further comment.
Keating and his Irish model wife have three children, Jack, Marie and Ali.
The pair had known each other since their early teens, but married within months of beginning a relationship.
Keating and the then Yvonne Connolly tied the knot on the island of Nevis in the Caribbean in April 1998, and their first child, Jack, was born within a year.
He has spoken in interviews about how meeting his wife prompted him to give up a whirl of partying and one-night stands which he had briefly enjoyed while touring with Boyzone.
Talking about the life-changing experience, Keating once said: "A lot of the time I was dating and there would be girls throwing themselves at me. I'd say, 'no, no, no. I can't'.
"And then there was the first time I had a one-night stand. I left my girlfriend the next day. I called her and said, 'I can't be with you any more'. I went through this brilliant stage of being with a different girl every other night. Then I met Yvonne and everything changed."
The pair's beach marriage came less than three months after the death of Keating's mother Marie from breast cancer.
He asked her to marry him on a whim after they had been for a walk and the ceremony was held shortly after.
They had a church blessing in Ireland a year later with friends and family.
Speaking of their relationship, in one interview, he has said: "I've said it before and I'll say it a thousand times, my wife is everything to me. She's my rock, the love of my life. I'm very lucky."
The death of Gately in October was a huge and unexpected blow to Keating and the rest of his bandmates.
They had been recording together again and had played a number of live shows after reforming to tour in 2008.
Keating - whose hits have included Life Is A Rollercoaster - joined the rest of the band as pallbearers at the funeral.
From: The Mirror
20 May 2010
Proper shocking split: Ronan Keating and his wife are no more
It’s just been announced that Ronan Keating and his wife Yvonne have split after 12 years of marriage.
“With great sadness, Ronan and Yvonne Keating today announce their separation,” reads the official statement on Ronan's website. "The separation is amicable and they will continue to work together in order to provide the best for their children. The family ask for privacy at this difficult time.”
The couple, who’ve been together since their teens, have three children, Jack, Marie and Ali.
Rather unfortunately, only a few days ago, Ronan said in a new interview that he didn’t know why Yvonne was still with him.
“I can’t believe Yvonne has stuck with me for so long,” he said. “I still get incredibly jealous. The green-eyed monster rears its ugly head and brings out all my insecurities. I don’t like it if Yvonne is out without me. I just can’t help it.”
Um, he might need to get used to it now. Insensitive, us?
So, will all those overgrown Boyzone fans be devastated about the split or just fancy their chances with their heartthrob after all these years? On the one hand, it is very sad... but on the other, he is looking rather hot at the moment…
From: 3Am
20 May 2010
Singer Ronan splits from wife
BOYZONE singer RONAN KEATING and his wife YVONNE are separating after 12 years.
The pair released a statement this morning confirming the split, which is said to be "amicable".
The break-up comes just months after the death of Ronan's close friend and bandmate STEPHEN GATELY.
A statement issued on the couple's behalf said: "With great sadness, Ronan and Yvonne Keating today announce their separation.
"The separation is amicable and they will continue to work together in order to provide the best for their children.
"The family ask for privacy at this difficult time."
A spokesman said there would be no further comment.
Keating and his Irish model wife have three children, Jack, Marie and Ali.
The former couple met in their early teens and married after a short relationship.
They tied the knot in April 1998 on the island of Nevis in the Caribbean and their first child, Jack, was born within a year.
Ronan had previously spoken about how falling in love with Yvonne ended the partying lifestyle he became accustomed to in the early days of Boyzone.
He said: "A lot of the time I was dating and there would be girls throwing themselves at me. I'd say, 'No, no, no. I can't.'
"And then there was the first time I had a one-night stand. I left my girlfriend the next day. I called her and said, 'I can't be with you any more.'
"I went through this brilliant stage of being with a different girl every other night. Then I met Yvonne and everything changed."
The pair's beach marriage came less than three months after the death of Ronan's mum MARIE from breast cancer.
They renewed their vows in Ireland in 2000 with friends and family.
Speaking of their relationship in one interview, he said: "I've said it before and I'll say it a thousand times, my wife is everything to me. She's my rock, the love of my life. I'm very lucky."
From: The Sun
20 May 2010
Boyzone singer Ronan Keating says splits from wife
LONDON (Reuters Life!) - Boyzone singer Ronan Keating announced on Thursday he had separated from his wife of 12 years Yvonne. The couple have three children.
Lifestyle
"With great sadness Ronan and Yvonne Keating today announce their separation," the Irish singer and songwriter said on his website.
"The separation is amicable and they will continue to work together in order to provide the best for their children. The family ask for privacy at this difficult time."
Keating, 33, found fame with Boyzone, which had a string of hits in the 1990s.
The band reformed in 2007 and 2008, and the following year group member Stephen Gately died suddenly aged 33 while on holiday on the Spanish island of Majorca.
The remaining members of Boyzone released studio album "Brother" in March which topped the British charts.
From: Reuters
20 May 2010
From the official site:
Ronan and Yvonne
With great sadness Ronan and Yvonne Keating today announce their separation.
The separation is amicable and they will continue to work together in order to provide the best for their children. The family ask for privacy at this difficult time.
20 may 2010
From the official site:
Eurovision: A Song For Justin!
Make sure you tune in to watch Eurovision: A Song For Justin! on Five at 10pm tonight.
The documentary shows Justin's quest for Eurovision fame. Ronan, who wrote the Eurovision entry for JLC, pops up on the show along the way to give Justin help and tips. Part 2 of the show will follow same time next week!
19 may 2010
From the official site:
Ronan and Keith on Radio 2
After a hair raising day which saw Ronan and the rest of the Boyz nearly stranded in Amsterdam due to the volcanic ash cloud, we're please to announce that they made it back safely and Ronan and Keith will be live on Radio 2 today from 2.30pm!
Make sure you tune in!
18 may 2010
From the official site:
The Boyz on Loose Women and GMTV
The Boyz will be all over your TV screens this week as they will be appearing on Loose Women on Wed 18th May and the following day you can then catch the band on GMTV for a special appearance. Be sure to tune in!
18 may 2010
Ronan Keating promises good behaviour on Australian X Factor
Boyzone star Ronan Keating has promised that he won’t get into any trouble when he stars his new job as a judge on the Australian X Factor series.
The time the Irish singer was down under, he got into a fight with Rihanna’s security after a drinking session with former Westlife star Brian McFadden.
But Ronan has promised to be on his best behaviour this time round. He told The Mirror: “There will be none of that going on when I head over there, I promise.
“I don’t want to mess it up.”
However, won’t be refraining from night’s out altogether….he added:
“It’s great having Brian there too and I’m sure there will be a fair few nights out,” he said.
From: Unreality tv
17 May 2010
Ronan Keating promises to be on his best behaviour when he joins Australian X Factor
Ronan Keating has promised to be on his best behaviour when he joins Australian X Factor as a judge. Last time the Irishman was in Oz he ended up getting into a scrap with Rihanna's security after a boozy day out with pal Brian McFadden.
He said: "There will be none of that going on when I head over there, I promise.
"I don't want to mess it up."
But that doesn't mean he will be staying away from his drinking pal Brian, who is a judge on Australian Pop Idol.
"It's great having Brian there too and I'm sure there will be a fair few nights out," he said.
Careful now...
From: Mirror
17 May 2010
RONAN KEATING REVEALS HIS JEALOUS SIDE
HE’S been happily married for 12 years but Boyzone star Ronan Keating still turns into the Incredible Hulk with rages of jealousy.
The Irish hunk told me his worst trait is insecurity when it comes to his wife Yvonne.
Ronan admitted: “I can’t believe Yvonne has stuck with me for so long.
“I still get incredibly jealous. The green-eyed monster rears its ugly head and brings out all my insecurities.
“I don’t like it if Yvonne is out without me.
“I just can’t help it.”
Imagine how she feels having thousands of drooling women throwing themselves at you.
Boyzone’s new single Love Is A Hurricane is out tomorrow.
From: Daily Star
16 May 2010
From the official site:
'Love Is A Hurricane' out now!
Don't forget, Boyzone's brand new single 'Love Is A Hurricane' is out now! You can make sure you get your copy of this brilliant new track by visiting HMV or iTunes!
Don't forget to check out the amazing video for the single over on www.boyzonebrotheralbum.com.
16 may 2010
KEATING LANDS REALITY SHOW ROLE
BOYZONE star RONAN KEATING is remodelling himself as a reality TV show ju dge - the Irish singer has landed a role on an Australian version of THE X FACTOR.
Simon Cowell is planning to take his highly-successful British talent s how to America next year (11), and is rolling out the format across the w orld.
The music mogul has already taken the show Down Under, hiring the boyba nd star as one of his judges - and Keating is delighted to have been give n the chance to join the series, especially as Boyzone's manager Louis Wa lsh is on the panel of the original show.
He says, "I can't wait. It's an exciting new role for me. Louis Walsh h as offered to give me tips. I'll be firm, but fair - maybe not as nasty a s Simon Cowell." The job means Keating will now be based in Australia from June (10) unt il November (10).
From: PR-Inside
15 May 2010
Boyzone's Ronan Keating to be X Factor mentor
Boyzone star Ronan Keating has confirmed that he will take up a job on the Australian version of The X Factor, according to a report.
Boyzone star Ronan Keating has confirmed that he will take up a job on the Australian version of The X Factor, according to a report.
The 33-year-old singer has been offered a post as a mentor on the Aussie franchise of Simon Cowell's reality TV talent contest.
Ronan has revealed that the position will involve him staying in Australia from June until November and he said that his family will fly out to stay with him for some of the time.
It is believed that the other members of Boyzone will also make a trip the show later in the autumn to perform a song to promote their latest album `Brother'.
The Irishman told the Daily Star: "I can't wait. It's an exciting new role for me.
"Louis Walsh has offered to give me tips. I'll be firm but fair - maybe not as nasty as Simon Cowell!"
Bosses at the Seven Network have confirmed that Kyle Sandilands, Natalie Imbruglia and Guy Sebastian are to join Keating on the judging panel.
Auditions for the new series will take place later this month in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and the eventual winner will land a contract with Sony Music Australia.
FremantleMedia Australia's CEO Ian Hogg said: "We are delighted to be working with Seven and Sony Music on this phenomenally successful format. Our creative team are determined to make this show something very special, a programme that will resonate deeply with Australian audiences.
"Sony will launch the career of our series winner so you can be sure that X Factor contestants will soon dominate the airwaves."
From: STV
15 May 2010
RONAN KEATING TO JUDGE AUSTRALIAN X FACTOR
BOYZONE star Ronan Keating has landed a job as a judge on The X Factor – in Australia.
Irish singer Ronan, 33, said: “I can’t wait. It’s an exciting new role for me.
“Louis Walsh has offered to give me tips. I’ll be firm but fair – maybe not as nasty as Simon Cowell!”
Ronan’s new job means he will be based in Australia from June until November.
His family will fly out to be with him for some of the time.
The other members of Boyzone will jet out to join Ronan later in the year to promote their latest album Brother.
From: Daily Star
15 May 2010
From the official site:
Ronan joins the Australian X-Factor!
Ronan is delighted to announce that he will be a new judge on Australia's 'X Factor' talentshow, which will hit television later this year.
Ronan and the Boyz are no strangers to the Australian market, earlier this year he scored an OZ No 1 album and completed a successful tour down under and Ronan is very excited to be returning to Australia to work on the show.
14 may 2010
Natalie Imbruglia and Keating for Oz Factor
'Torn' singer Natalie Imbruglia and Boyzone member Ronan Keating have been confirmed as judges as on Australia's upcoming version of 'The X Factor'.
Natalie Imbruglia and Ronan Keating will judge the new Australian 'X Factor'.
The 'Torn' singer and the Irish Boyzone member will head Down Under later this year to appear on the judging panel of the reality singing show alongside 'The Kyle and Jackie O Show' star Kyle Sandilands and singer Guy Sebastian.
Contestants of all ages will be able to enter in the hope of landing a recording contract with Sony Music Australia, and the four categories will be boys under 25, girls under 25, over 25s and groups.
Ian Hogg - CEO of FreemantleMedia Australia - said: "Our creative team are determined to make this show something very special, a programme that will resonate deeply with Australian audiences.
"Sony will launch the career of our series winner so you can be sure that X Factor contestants will soon dominate the airwaves."
Australia last held a version of 'The X Factor' in 2005, with a judging panel of Mark Holden, Kate Ceberano and John Reid.
Auditions will begin later this month in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide.
From: The List
14 May 2010
Imbruglia, Keating for Aussie 'X Factor'
The Seven Network has confirmed details of the new series of the Australian X Factor.
Kyle Sandilands, Natalie Imbruglia, Guy Sebastian and Boyzone's Ronan Keating will be the mentors and judges on the revamped show. No host has been confirmed yet.
Based on the popular UK format, there will be no age limit for contestants, with solo acts and groups split into four categories, boys under-25, girls under-25, over 25s and groups. The winner of the series will land a contract with Sony Music Australia.
FremantleMedia Australia’s CEO Ian Hogg said: “We are delighted to be working with Seven and Sony Music on this phenomenally successful format. Our creative team are determined to make this show something very special, a programme that will resonate deeply with Australian audiences.
"Sony will launch the career of our series winner so you can be sure that X Factor contestants will soon dominate the airwaves."
A previous series of X Factor aired on Network 10 in 2005, but the show wasn't a ratings hit. It was hosted by Daniel MacPherson and featured Mark Holden, Kate Ceberano and John Reid as judges. Five-piece vocal group Random won the series.
FremanltleMedia Australia, who produced the first series, are involved in the new run. The show will attempt to cash in on the absence of Australian Idol on Channel 10 this year.
Auditions will take place later this month in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.
From: Digital Spy
14 May 2010
Seven signs X-Factor deal
The Seven Network has signed a deal to put the hit British talent format The X-Factor on Australian television.
Seven has stitched together an all-star judging panel for the show, comprising radio bad boy Kyle Sandilands, Australian pop stars Natalie Imbruglia and Guy Sebastian and former Boyzone singer Ronan Keating.
The deal was struck after several months of negotiation between Seven, the production company Fremantle, who will produce the show, and the British company Syco, owned by music and TV industry titan Simon Cowell, which owns the format.
Sources say the deal is worth skywards of $20 million.
The re-vamped X-Factor will launch on Seven later this year. It will be part of a major programming push by Seven against the resurgence of Nine and the rise of Ten through its juggernaut MasterChef.
An on-air promotion calling for contestants was aired on Seven tonight during AFL broadcasts in the southern states.
Sandilands is already under contract to Seven as a judge on Australia's Got Talent. Deals with Sebastian, Imbruglia and Keating were finalised today.
Seven CEO David Leckie described the format as a "bloody great show".
He added: "What an incredible line-up of judges."
Fremantle Media's CEO Ian Hogg described The X-Factor as a "phenomenally successful format".
"Our creative team are determined to make this show something very special," he said.
The Ten Network aired a version of the format in 2005, hosted by Daniel MacPherson. Despite a promising start it tanked and a second series was not commissioned.
From: The Sydney Morning Herald
14 May 2010
From the official site:
'The Tree of Seasons' Out Now
Stephen Gately's novel 'The Tree Of Seasons' is released in the shops from today. (Thursday 13th May)
This amazing fantasy story was Stephen's first ever novel, which he sadly never got the chance to finish. The last few pages of the book were completed lovingly by his close family and friends.
As Stephen's husband Andrew says on the book's official website, "Stephen poured his heart in to the writing of this book. He spent so much time dreaming about the worlds that his characters would inhabit, the evil that they'd encounter, and the adventures they'd experience. To see his story being published would make him the happiest and proudest boy in the world."
'The Tree Of Seasons' will be available in all good bookstores and can now be ordered online from Amazon.
13 may 2010
From the official site:
Dublin date announced!
Over the weekend the Boyz announced the release of a brand new Irish date to their 2011 Tour!
The Boyz will be playing the O2 Arena in Dublin on 15th March 2011. Tickets for this show will go on sale this Friday 14th May so keep your eyes peeled for more news!
11 may 2010
Legends team up to take on Robbie Williams in charity match
Ryan Giggs & Zinedine Zidane Line Up For Soccer Aid 2010
Superstar duo Ryan Giggs and Zinedine Zidane are set to line up in the same team to take on Robbie Williams' challengers at Soccer Aid 2010.
The charity event at Old Trafford on 6 June - to be broadcast live on ITV1 - will see the pair play in a Rest of the World side against Soccer Aid England. Money raised through ticket sales and donations made by television viewers will go to UNICEF, the world's leading children's organisation.
Giggs and Zidane will be joined by a host of celebrities and sportsmen which will include former Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, cricket legend Brian Lara, ex-United striker Henrik Larsson and Boyzone front man Ronan Keating. Retired England internationals Teddy Sheringham, Alan Shearer, David Seaman and Jamie Redknapp, as well as boxing hero Ricky Hatton, presenter Ben Shephard and chart topping singer Williams will face them.
Giggs, who has been an ambassador for the group since 2006, stressed the good work of the charity. He said: "Over the years with UNICEF I’ve seen the huge challenges facing children and young people right across the world.
"I’ve visited children being affected by HIV and AIDS in Sierra Leone and learnt about the difficulties faced by children in accessing their basic rights, like the right to an education or basic healthcare.
"But I’ve also seen how, with commitment and support from the public, UNICEF is making a real difference.
Giggs added: "Soccer Aid might be just a football match, but this 90 minutes has the power to transform the lives of millions of children worldwide, with your help. Come down and watch the match, make a donation and help Soccer Aid 2010 extra special.”
Tickets are now on sale for Soccer Aid 2010 on 6th June, call 0844 576 2010 or visit itv.com/socceraid. Tickets now on sale for Soccer Aid 2010 on 6th June, call 0844 576 2010 or visit itv.com/socceraid
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From: Goal
11 May 2010
From the official site:
Dublin date announced!
Over the weekend the Boyz announced the release of a brand new Irish date to their 2011 Tour!
The Boyz will be playing the O2 Arena in Dublin on 15th March 2011. Tickets for this show will go on sale this Friday 14th May so keep your eyes peeled for more news!
11 May 2010
Boyzone announce 2011 Dublin gig
They had a tough year in 2009, They lost a brother, a friend and a band member. Boyzone however are back on tour for a tour of the UK and Ireland in 2011.
Yes its the first gig announcement of 2011. As the months of 2010 rolled in it was only a matter of time but these will be out on tour celebrating the success of their album Brother album which has reached #1 for them and The Brother Tour will take place Tuesday 15th March 2011 in The O2, Dublin and tickets for the gig go on sale Friday 14th May 2010. Tickets will cost €49.20
From: Golden Plec
10 May 2010
From the official site:
Ronan and Shane on The One Show
Make sure you tune into The One Show on Monday night (10th May) as Ronan and Shane will be guests on the show. If you miss out, you can still watch the show again on the BBC iPlayer.
08 May 2010
From the official site:
Tour News Coming Soon!
Keep your eyes peeled as we'll have some very special news about Boyzone shows in Ireland coming very soon!05 May 2010
Boyzone Stars Play Celebrity Charity Soccer
Boyzone stars Ronan Keating and Keith Duffy laced up their football shoes in the weekend to take part in a charity soccer game at Manchester United’s Old Trafford.
The game – which featured United players such as Dwight Yorke and Jaap Stam, as well as stars such as Tinchy Stryder, Ricky Whittle and Olly Murs – was part of the United Relief Live: The Big Red Day Out event in aid of Sport Relief and the Manchester United Foundation.
With performances by Tinchy Stryder, The Saturdays and Tony Christie, the game attracted over 30,000 people.
“Charity is the most important part of the day, and it’s a tribute to the foundation which put this show on the road,” said United manager Alex Ferguson. “Charities exist because of the people who support them, and that’s why I always applaud people who take part.”
According to the Manchester United Foundation’s website, the charity “aims to use the passion for Manchester United to educate, motivate and inspire young people to build a better life for themselves and improve the communities they live in. The Foundation delivers football coaching, skills training, personal development and life changing experiences, providing young people with opportunities to change their lives for the better. Through football, we encourage young people to develop as players and more importantly as people.”
The full-time score was locked up at 2-2 until Stryder’s team won a penalty shoot out.
From: Look to the stars
4 may 2010
From the official site:
Ronan joins Soccer Aid!
After Ronan's success on Saturday at Old Trafford he is pleased to announce that he is joining the 'Rest of the World' squad at Soccer Aid 2010.
Ronan's team mates will include Welsh movie star and captain Michael Sheen (The Queen, Twilight: New Moon, Alice in Wonderland), TV presenter Gethin Jones, former Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, undefeated boxing champion Joe Calzaghe and actor James Kyson-Lee, who plays Ando in Heroes.
The team will be managed by Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish and Ian Rush. Together, they will put the Rest of the World team through their paces in the hope that they will lift the Soccer Aid 2010 trophy for the very first time.
They will be taking on the England team which includes Robbie Williams, GMTV presenter Ben Shephard, actor and TV presenter Bradley Walsh, presenter and DJ Jamie Theakston, boxing hero Ricky Hatton, actor Damian Lewis alongside footballing heroes Alan Shearer, David Seaman, Teddy Sheringham and Jamie Redknapp. Comic genius James Corden will be the assistant manager.
Soccer Aid, the brainchild of Robbie Williams and UNICEF UK, will be kicking off on Sunday 6th June at Manchester's legendary Old Trafford stadium and broadcast live on ITV1. Two star-studded squads of footballing legends and celebrities from England and the Rest of the World will take on one another in an electrifying football match all in aid of UNICEF, the world’s leading children’s organisation.
Money raised through profits from ticket sales and donations made by viewers during the match will go to UNICEF’s invaluable work helping children around the world.
You can pick up tickets for the even by visiting - www.itv.com/socceraid.
4 may 2010
STARS UNITE IN CHARITY FOOTBALL EXTRAVAGANZA
Football stars and a host of celebrities joined forces to tackle a charity event at Manchester United's Old Trafford on Saturday.
Former United legends including Dwight Yorke and Jaap Stam, as well as stars such as Ronan Keating and Angus Deayton took part in the United Relief Live: The Big Red Day Out, - a collaboration between the Manchester United Foundation and Sport Relief to raise money for a variety of local, national and international causes.
London rapper Tinchy Stryder and girl band The Saturdays performed a collection of hits before Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson put in an appearance to thank more than 30,000 fans for turning up in the warm spring sunshine, saying to the crowd: "It's like Majorca weather in Manchester."
He told the packed stadium: "Charity is the most important part of the day, and it's a tribute to the foundation which put this show on the road.
"Charities exist because of the people who support them, and that's why I always applaud people who take part."
A team of Manchester United legends and celebrity fans then took to the field to face The Rivals, a team made up of former players such as Ian Rush as well as celebrities including former rugby star Austin Healey and television presenter Tim Lovejoy.
The Manchester United team featured players from the club's 1998-99 treble-winning season including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Dwight Yorke, and Jaap Stam. Celebrities joining them included Boyzone singer Ronan Keating and The X Factor star Olly Murs.
The game finished 2-2, before a dramatic penalty shoot-out entertained fans.
The Manchester United Foundation was set up in 2006 to commemorate the 50 years since the club's first appearance in European competitions. It is involved in international fundraising work in partnership with Unicef, as well as national work with The Children's Society and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.
It also carries out work in local communities, including educational programmes and projects such as the New Children's Hospital Appeal in Manchester.
John Shiels, chief executive of the Manchester United Foundation, explained: "We do numerous projects around Greater Manchester, on the streets of Salford and Trafford. We do social inclusion projects, working with local kids.
"We go into schools and we run projects related to health and nutrition. We also do disability programmes, and we support the Homeless World Cup, which is a great event. All the money raised goes towards the sustainability of these projects.
"It's a real reflection of our history and heritage, because Manchester United have always been renowned for their youth development.
"The principles and beliefs are what the club is all about. If we can translate that to youngsters - things like hard work, discipline and time-keeping - then everyone's a winner."
Former Manchester United star Quinton Fortune, who played in the match, said: "Charity work in Great Britain is very important.
"I've also done a lot of charity work in my home country, South Africa, for Unicef, working with kids with Aids. I've also done things in Uganda with kids who were caught up in wars. It's fantastic - I try and do as much as I can."
Rapper Tinchy Stryder said: "I used to play for football at Wimbledon when I was younger, but I took the music route, as football seemed like hard work!
"It's always important to do things for charity and good causes - anything you can do to help is good."
Sport Relief is a scheme help disadvantaged people both in the UK and across the world's poorest countries. To find out more visit www.bbc.co.uk/sportrelief.
To find out more about the Manchester United Foundation, visit www.mufoundation.org.
From: Community Newswire
3 may 2010
Goal-den moments for celebs at United Relief charity match
The Theatre of Dreams became the stage for a host of showbiz stars at the weekend as celebrities lined up alongside footballing greats at the first ever United Relief Live charity match.
And it made the dreams come true for a host of celebs, who got to play on the Old Trafford pitch with some of their footballing heroes.
Boyzone stars Keith Duffy and Ronan Keating told The Diary they were just delighted to be playing at the home of their beloved United.
Keith said: “We’ve been in training for this for the last 16 years – and finally our time has come. Now we just don’t want to fall over!
“To be honest, we’re just delighted to be here and have our names on the back of United shirts.”
Ronan added: “We’ve been like kids on Christmas morning down in the dressing room with all the United greats.”
The event, which helped raise funds for the BBC’s Sport Relief campaign and the Manchester United Foundation, garnered huge support from the public – with 35,000 people packing into Old Trafford on one of the busiest days of the football season. Indeed, it was the second highest-attended match of the day after City’s game over at Eastlands.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson thanked fans for their support at the match saying: “It’s an amazing turnout on a Saturday afternoon with football matches going on all over the country. Well done to everyone here.”
Talk before the game had all been about the United side coasting to victory – containing as it did a host of former players from the famous treble-winning side of 1999 including Jaap Stam, Ronny Johnson, Dwight Yorke and Andrew Cole – up against the Rivals team of all-comers led by Liverpool legend Ian Rush.
But after a tame first half, the game came to life in the second with two goals by the Rivals’ Ralf Little and Ugo Ehiogu, before Ugo then scored an own goal at the other end for the United side.
Then, in the final seconds of added time, described by the matchday commentator as “Fergie time”, United won a penalty – converted by former Reds star Quinton Fortune which took the game to a 2-2 draw – and on to penalties.
After a string of misses from celebs from both sides – including X Factor star and crowd favourite Olly Murs and comedian Paddy McGuinness – it went to sudden death with the Rivals finally outshooting the United XI to win it 7-6.
From: Manchester evening news
2 may 2010
Boyzone - Shane Lynch & Ronan Keating
Boyzone Shane Lynch Eyes New Direction For Boyzone With Naked Video
Irish singer Shane Lynch didn't hesitate when he was asked to strip for the new Boyzone video - because he saw the saucy scenes as a chance to mess with the band's clean-cut image.
In the promo for Love Is a Hurricane, Lynch shed his clothes, and he admits it was a deliberate ploy to move Boyzone in a new direction.
He tells Britain's Live From Studio Five, "I actually suggested it. Me and the boys have always done tame videos and I said to the lads one day, 'We need to get naked!'
"The album we've released is a different step forward for us boys, it is an obvious transformation musically. The video was a visual transformation. I just said, 'Let's push the boat out and do things differently.'"
In other Boyzone related news star Ronan Keating has missed out on a race to Venice, Italy from London in a classic Jaguar sportscar - because the owner wouldn't let him get behind the wheel.
The Irish singer helped launch a car versus train race across Europe on Thursday morning (29Apr10) - between a 1956 Grand Prix Jaguar D-type and the Orient Express.
Keating had to settle for a seat aboard the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express train, which is favored to win the race to Italy, after he was told driving the car would not be an option.
Before the train left Victoria Station, the singer said, "I asked (to drive it) but they wouldn't let me."
The car's owner, Jonathan Turner, will share the responsibility of getting the car to Venice ahead of the train with Octane magazine editor Robert Coucher, who organized the race.
Both the train and the classic car are expected to arrive at their destination on Friday evening (30Apr10).
From: Femalefirst
2 may 2010