Spider-Man star for Scorsese's Silence

Spider-Man star Andrew Garfield has been cast in Martin Scorsese's latest film Silence.

The actor will take a role in the director's adaptation of the Shusaku Endo novel, which he has been trying to bring to the big screen for decades. Variety reports that Scorsese has finally received the necessary financing from Emmett/Furla Films.

The story centres on two 17th-century Jesuit priests who travel to Japan to investigate claims of religious persecution.

Garfield will play the part of the Portuguese Jesuit priest Father Rodrigues, a role which formerly had been attached to Daniel Day-Lewis, Benicio Del Toro, and Gael Garcia Bernal in former plans for the project.

Inception star Ken Watanabe has also joined the cast of Silence as the priests' interpreter.

The screenplay has been written by Scorsese and Jay Cocks.

Silence is expected to being production in Taiwan in July 2014.

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Baz Luhrmann: 'I want Hamlet with Leo'

Baz Luhrmann has announced that he would like to tackle another Shakespeare classic.

The Australian director told The Hollywood Reporter that his dream project would be a version of Hamlet starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

DiCaprio stars in The Great Gatsby and also played the male lead in Luhrmann's updated version of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

Asked what his next collaboration with DiCaprio would be, Luhrmann replied: "Hamlet. To me, Gatsby is the American Hamlet. What else could we possibly do as a follow-up? It's just a dream at this point."

The Great Gatsby is released on May 10 in the US, and May 16 in Ireland.

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EastEnders: "gruesome" exit for Michael

Warning: Spoiler Alert! EastEnders actor Steve John Shepherd has hinted at a "gruesome" exit for his character Michael Moon.

Shepherd announced his departure from the soap in March and his current storyline sees him at war with his estranged wife Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks) over access to their baby daughter, Scarlett.

In an interview with Soaplife, he said: "It's leading to a gruesome and gothic finale.

"As you know, I'm leaving EastEnders later this year and I'm really pleased that things between Janine and Michael are going to be ghastly.

"I'm looking forward to it as I enjoy working with Charlie Brooks."

He added: "It's going to be a real battle of wits, and Michael doesn't contemplate the idea of losing for a minute."

However, things are looking up slightly this week when Janine employs Michael's ally Alice Branning (Jasmyn Banks) as Scarlett's nanny.

Shepherd said: "Alice can let him know what Janine is up to. And, of course, he has more chance of getting access to Scarlett if she is in Alice's care."

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Love/Hate's Nidge "doesn't know who he is"

With filming of the new series of Love/Hate due to wrap this Friday, star Tom Vaughan-Lawlor has been discussing his character Nidge's journey on the hit RTÉ drama.

In an interview with Miriam O'Callaghan on RTÉ Radio 1 this morning, Vaughan-Lawlor was asked whether he liked or disliked Nidge.

"It's a very good question. He's undeniably charismatic, but it's hard to judge as an actor," he said. "The minute you start making that kind of an analysis of a character, I think you're kind of lost.

"I think all you can do is identify his wants and his desires and his needs and play those as truly and as honestly as you can. But if you start stepping outside and making judgements, I think you're dead. So, yes and no is the short answer."

Vaughan-Lawlor continued: "A lot of people in the media have been obsessed with trying to pigeon-hole the character into being one specific person from the real world. But he's a mishmash of a load of different inspirations and real people and imagined people and fantasy people. He's a complex man.

"He's seductive because he's always changing, and that's why he's a brilliant character to play, because the minute you think he's one thing he changes and does something else. The minute you think he's growing a conscience he undercuts it and negates it with something really chilling. Or, alternately, he can do something very cold and then also be very tender.

"And that's why he's an amazing character to play: you're playing all these tones, all these colours, all these different notes. And, y'know, he doesn't know who he is, and that's part of his journey, I think."

Listen to the full interview here.

Vaughan-Lawlor returns to the Dublin stage next month in a new production of Howie the Rookie, the play which was written by Intermission director. The new production will be directed by O'Rowe.

Described as "a white-knuckle ride - a wild, urban odyssey through a nightmare landscape, hilarious and grotesque by turns", Howie the Rookie was rapturously received when it premiered in 1999.

The new Landmark production opens at the Project Arts Centre on Monday June 17th with previews from June 13th to 16th.

Tickets are available from the Project Arts Centre box office on: (01) 881 9613 or online from: www.projectartscentre.ie.

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Tubridy celebrates turning 40 with 2fm

Tonight (Wednesday) is the night where Ryan Tubridy invites his RTÉ 2fm listeners to join him as he celebrates his 40th birthday in Dublin.

Tubridy spoke to RTÉ TEN ahead of the party, which is happening a little earlier than his actual big day: "It's not quite my birthday. Someone described it as being like the Queen's birthday; you get an official one and a makey-upy one.

"So this is the makey-upy one where we're going to have a bit of fun with our listeners.

"I'll have the official one where I'll disappear with my family and friends and mark it gently, as I jump over the chronological cliff that is my 40th birthday."

Ahead of tonight's celebrations in Dublin's 37 Dawson Street, Tubridy added: "Tonight is just fun and sharing a bit of the messing and shenanigans with the listeners who have turned 40 or will be turning 40 this year."

He's also looking forward to coming face to face with many of his listeners: "I'm like a . . . politician. I think with the listeners you've got to go out and shake every hand, kiss every baby and that's what you have to do.

"For some people that's a chore; I like it."

Damien Farrelly, from 2fm's Early Breakfast show, will play the music tonight before returning to the airwaves tomorrow morning at 6am.

Tune into The Tubridy Show on 2fm, weekdays 9am to 11am and you can listen in on the RTÉ Radio Player here.

Check out the pictures and video from tonight's party on The Tubridy website here tomorrow and on The Tubridy Show Facebook page.

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Comic sequel cash causes cast chaos

Marvel is apparently struggling to secure cast members for The Avengers' sequel.

Following the revelation that Robert Downey Jr earned an estimated $50 million from the first movie, Deadline reports that the rest of the ensemble cast are seeking similar deals.

Downey Jr's earnings were so high because his deal comprised both an upfront payment and a percentage of the film's box office profits.

As things currently stand the Iron Man star has yet to sign up for Whedon's sequel or any further Marvel films. Iron Man 3 has currently grossed over $700 million worldwide since its debut at the end of April.

Cast members including Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo and Samuel L Jackson are also yet to officially sign on, while Chris Evans reportedly made a deal for The Avengers 2 at the same time as Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

Marvel has allegedly threatened to sue actors - for those who are still bound by contracts and options - or recast their roles.

In response, Downey Jr himself is reportedly getting involved in his fellow cast members' negotiations, putting pressure on Marvel to offer them better deals.

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Stars punk it up for MET Ball 2013

The annual Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute Gala is one of the biggest events on the fashion calendar, and the stars usually save their biggest and best frocks for the night.

This year's event, which took place last night (May 6), didn't disappoint, with an edgy punk theme.

Lashings of black eyeliner, spiked hairstyles, 90s-inspired platform heels, swathes of sheer material and studs all featured highly on the red carpet, with some actresses adopting a significantly different look for the evening, which makes for some interesting photos.

For an extensive gallery of the red carpet looks from this year's MET Ball, visit the RTÉ Fashion site here.

Sex and the City star Sarah Jessica Parker was one of our favourites, and she had one of the most experimental looks from the evening. SJP didn't shy away from the punk theme, donning a Giles Deacon dress, elaborate Philip Treacy headpiece and Louis Vuitton tartan thigh-high boots.

Beyonce went for a daring low-cut Givenchy dress which had a thigh-side split, revealing her matching gold patterned over-the-knee boots. A pair of coordinating gloves finished off the look.

Dior ambassadors Jennifer Lawrence and Marion Cotillard posed together on the red carpet in fabulous Dior evening gowns in contrasting hues.

Kim Kardashian made a bit of a fashion faux pas in a garish Givenchy floral dress, which featured a high neck, gloved sleeves and a side-split. Shoes in the same floral pattern led to complete print overload.

Kristen Stewart wowed in an intricate Stella McCartney jumpsuit, completing the look with fabulous burgundy smokey eye makeup.

Anne Hathaway revealed her new peroxide blonde locks, and turned heads in a black vintage Valentino gown from the designer's 1992 archives. This racy number featured feathered sleeves and mesh panels at the bust.

Diane Kruger nodded her head to the punk theme with dip-dyed pink locks and lashings of eye makeup. Her outfit choice was superb as always, she went for Chanel Haute Couture for the event.

January Jones also rocked a Chanel Haute Couture dress, pairing it with mega Nicholas Kirkwood heels, however, we can't say we're a fan of the heavy, deconstructed black eyeliner.

Miley Cyrus was clearly loving the punk theme, stepping out in a fishnet Marc Jacobs dress, accessorising with Eddie Borgo jewels and Prada shoes. She went all out in the hair stakes too, wearing her peroxide crop in gravity-defying spikes.

Gwyneth Paltrow must not have seen the memo about the punk theme, the actress went for a very safe, rather boring Valentino pink frock.

Katy Perry looked regal in a gorgeous, heavily embellished metallic Dolce & Gabbana dress, topping off the look with a gold crown and dangling earrings.

Madonna displayed her punk credentials in ripped fishnet stockings, a tartan studded jacket and leather gloves.

Sienna Miller wore a white ethereal Burberry plunging dress, but punked up the look with a studded cropped biker jacket, studded clutch bag a gold hairband.

Jessica Biel looked gorgeous in head-to-toe Giambattista Valli, and gave her nod to the punk-rock theme with a very delicate silver ring through her nose.

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Walliams, Stone welcome baby boy

David Walliams and Lara stone have welcomed their first child, a baby boy.

A spokesperson for the couple confirmed that Stone gave birth on Sunday (May 5th), however no further details - including their son's name - have been revealed.

Comedian Walliams announced the news of his wife's pregnancy on Twitter last November, saying: "Some wonderful news. My beautiful wife Lara is pregnant... [the baby] is due next year and we both couldn't be happier."

The Britain's Got Talent judge previously spoke of his excitement to become a father for the first time, saying: "I'm really looking forward to being a dad, the whole experience.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the baby for the first time, seeing this little person who's a mixture of you and the person you really love. But hopefully it will look like Lara and not Simon Cowell."

The Little Britain star and the Dutch supermodel married in Claridge's Hotel in London in May 2010.

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Al Pacino drops out of Despicable Me 2

Al Pacino has decided not to take part in Despicable Me 2 due to "creative differences."

The 73-year-old actor was set to play villain Eduardo in the Steve Carell-starring sequel to 2010's animated movie hit, according to Deadline.

In an official statement Universal Pictures said: "Over the production of Despicable Me 2, there were creative differences between us and Al Pacino, who had been cast as the voice of Eduardo in the film.

"We have mutually decided with Al to replace the voice of Eduardo with a new actor. Universal and Illumination thank Al for his many contributions to the process and look forward to a new actor bringing this memorable character to the screen upon its release this summer."

Despicable Me 2 hits cinemas on June 28.

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James Franco cast in Wim Wenders 3D film

Spring Breakers star James Franco has been cast in Wim Wenders's upcoming film Every Thing Will Be Fine.

The 35-year-old actor will play a man who accidentally causes the death of a child, according to Deadline.

The film follow Franco's character, Tomas, over a 12-year period following the accident.

Dawn of the Dead actress Sarah Polley is also reported to be starring in the movie.

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Spooks star Myles joins Transformers 4

Spooks actress Sophia Myles has joined the cast of Transformers 4.

33-year-old Myles is tipped to get her big break as a scientist in Michael Bay's upcoming action film, according to TheWrap.com.

Myles will work alongside Mark Wahlberg, Nicola Peltz, Irish actor Jack Reynor, Stanley Tucci and Kelsey Grammer in the latest instalment in the futuristic movie franchise.

Transformers 4 is set to premiere June 27, 2014.

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The Hit seeks song-writers for new series

New RTÉ series The Hit are on the hunt for song-writers who are looking to kick-start their career and work with top industry professionals.

The show, which originated as part of RTÉ's Format Farm project, will feature five-time Grammy-award winning producer Steve Lillywhite who has worked with U2, Talking Heads, Beady Eye and XTC among many others.

Speaking about the show, he said: "The Hit is a show that puts the song centre stage where it should be. As any artist will tell you: a great song can change a career overnight"

Interested songwriters should complete the application form available here and send it together with a copy of their song lyrics to thehit@vipmg.tv

Don't forget to send an mp3 or mp4 recording of your song (or a link to where the song can be streamed/downloaded) before the closing date of Friday, May 24th 2013.

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Eastenders casts Kirsty's bad-boy ex

Eastenders has announced the casting of actor Daniel Coonan as Kirsty Branning's ex-boyfriend Carl White.

Carl is set to arrive in Walford next month, turning Kirsty's (Kierston Wareing) world on it's head just as she thought she was finally being accepted as Mrs Branning.

He has spent the last few years in jail and is being billed as a new bad boy for the BBC soap.

While in prison, Carl shared a cell with Derek Branning and the two men became close friends. After being released, Carl tries to make contact with Kirsty, but she ignores him.

Once he finally tracks Kirsty down, Carl's early scenes see him try to recuperate money he feels is rightfully his. He also soon makes it clear that he wants Kirsty back.

Coonan said of his new role: "EastEnders has been a part of my life since I was 12-years-old. I even remember talking about the storylines in school playgrounds in Tottenham and I am very happy and proud to now be a small part of it's life."

EastEnders' executive producer Lorraine Newman added: "It's wonderful to have Daniel Coonan joining us in Walford to play Carl White.

"Oozing confidence and with a dangerous edge, will Kirsty be able to resist his bad boy charms for long, or can Max save her from the lure of the dark side?"

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Stars celebrate end of Cycle Against Suicide

The Cycle Against Suicide charity cycle event, supported by 2fm, ended yesterday with a big celebration for the 4,000 cyclists who participated over the past two weeks.

A sea of orange cyclists, wearing their charity t-shirts, made their way from Dundalk to Dublin for the final leg of their journey yesterday led by 2fm's Colm Hayes, event organizer Jim Breen, model Roz Purcell, sports presenters Brent Pope, musician and The Voice of Ireland coach Niall Breslin.

Speaking at the after party last night at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Golden Lane, 2fm's Hayes said: "The support has been phenomenal, from the cyclists, all the volunteers who have helped out along the way and the Irish public who have cheered us along the roads each day.

"Lifelong friendships have been made, cycling clubs born, and wonderful memories created.

"This is something I, and everyone who has been involved with the Cycle Against Suicide in some way, will never ever forget."

Jim Breen, centre beside Rosanna Davidson, came up with the idea for Cycle Against Suicide

The idea for the campaign came from businessman Jim Breen, following his appearance on RTÉ's The Secret Millionaire where he visited a suicide awareness group.

Commenting last night, Breen said: "Who would have thought that we were going to get 2,500 people cycling on these last two days alone, considering that our original target for the full two weeks was 1,000 people!

"What an incredible show of strength that together, shoulder to shoulder, we can break the cycle of suicide in Ireland.

"The message that it's ok not to feel ok, that it's more than ok to ask for help and that help is available locally, is now very clearly on the radar in Ireland.

"We are changing the way that mental health is perceived within Ireland. This has started - and it will not be stopped."

Bressie added: "The Cycle has had a massive impact on me personally and the positivity surrounding the cycle is immeasurable.

"I have been humbled by the stories my fellow cyclists have shared with me and I have been privileged to be able to tell my story to such receptive audiences. It's time to break the cycle."

Irish model, Purcell, who took part in most of the two week event, added: "I came on board for Cycle Against Suicide thinking of it as a physical challenge, not realising that what we are doing is changing the way a nation is thinking about mental health.

"Together, we are starting to remove the stigma surrounding mental health in Ireland and the Cycle has been an incredible part of that change."

For further information on the Cycle Against Suicide visit here

RTÉ is not responsible for content on external websites

Picture courtesy of Dean Kelly from Picture Boots

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Evil Dead star Levy files for divorce

Evil Dead star Jane Levy has filed for divorce from her husband Jaime Freitas.

Levy's court filing indicates that they were only together as a married couple for seven months in 2011, but have waited until last month to officially dissolve the union.

The pair's separation was reportedly amicable, with the actress making a request to not have to pay spousal support to her estranged husband.

Levy's spokesperson declined to make a comment on the divorce to TMZ.

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Our top three MET Gala 2012 looks

Ahead of tonight's Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute Gala, we've rounded up three of our favourite looks from 2012.

The MET ball is one of the biggest events on the fashion calendar, and the stars usually save their biggest and best frocks for the event.

We can't wait to see who and what will be working the red carpet later today, so in anticipation, we've chosen our top star looks from last year.

For a full round-up of last year's looks, including who is wearing whose designs, check out our Met Ball gallery over on RTÉ Fashion here.

1. Emma Stone

Emma Stone never fails to delight on the red carpet, and how darling does she look here, dressed in Lanvin at the 2012 Costume Institute Gala. The actress is never afraid of standing out, and here she's taken a break from the ubiquitous floor-sweeper gowns, going for a fresh and young hemline that hit her just above the knee. This playful little number was embellished with crystal flowers and featured a voluminous skirt, without being in any way over-the-top. Top marks!

2. Carey Mulligan

Carey Mulligan stunned the fashion critics at last year's MET Gala wearing a futuristic Prada gown. This was a fantastic red carpet moment for The Great Gatsby star, and proved she's not afraid of standing out from the crowd. This gold and silver paillette designed number featured a halter neckline and A-line silhouette which enhanced the actress's tiny waist. A subtle quiff and dramatic black eye make-up finished off this dynamic look.

3. Camilla Belle

Camilla Belle is always flawlessly turned out, here she's gone for a particularly vampy, flapper girl inspired look in a silver plunge-neck evening gown. The beautiful actress chose a couture Ralph Lauren gown which she topped off with vintage art deco jewels. To finish off the very sleek look, she wore her brunette locks slicked back, while a dark berry lip complimented the dress to perfection.

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Galifianakis: No Hangover 4

Comedian and actor Zach Galifianakis has said that the upcoming Hangover 3 will be the final part in the film franchise.

In an interview with Empire magazine, the actor, who plays Alan Garner in the film, said that he had to be convinced to partake in the third instalment: "It didn't make sense at first. I'm a leave-well-enough-alone kind of person. But looking back, I'm happy we did the third one.

"It feels like it's wrapping up nicely, where the second didn't feel like it was. A third one felt like it gave our characters a conclusion.

"What I would love to do is, if we all make it to 90, then get back together. That would be fun. But that's not going to happen.

"There's not going to be a fourth one."

The Hangover Part III will be released on May 24, 2013.

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Bieber fan storms Dubai stage

During Justin Bieber's recent concert in Dubai the singer was tackled on stage by a member of the audience.

While performing at a grand piano at the edge of the stage on Sunday, a fan by-passed security to gain access to the stage and the singer, knocking the piano over.

The singer later referenced the incident in a post to his 38 million plus followers on his Twitter page (@justinbieber): "Dubai. Nothing stops the show. 2 more to go."

His musical director Dan Kanter also tweeted (@DanKanter) about the event: "It wasn't a prank. Someone ran on stage during Believe and the piano got knocked off its platform.

"Everyone is fine. No need to worry!"

Bieber is currently in the middle of his world tour, Believe, which will see the19-year-old perform over 100 concerts.

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Sheridan Smith rules out Hollywood career

Quartet star Sheridan Smith has said that the prospect of a career in Hollywood "doesn't appeal" to her.

The 31-year-old star explained that she would miss home far too much.

Speaking to Saturday magazine (via Now magazine), Sheridan said: "A lot of people try it after being in a big show, like Downton [Abbey].

"That's better, rather than going over to queue for a pilot show. Also everyone's so glam and gorgeous. I'm happy here. It just doesn't appeal. I think I'd hate being away."

Sheridan further revealed that her schedule is "a bit crazy" at the minute, adding: "Recently I had to have a spray tan for one job I was working on in Lancaster, then I shot the scenes, got on a train back to London, and had to scrub all the tan off for another job I had the next morning.

"I was almost bleeding by the time I'd rubbed it all off. But I like to work. It keeps me out of trouble."

Smith can next be seen in BBC drama The 7:39 alongside Broadchurch's Olivia Colman.

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Corrie's Liz recovering well from heart attack

Coronation Street star Liz Dawn, who played Vera Duckworth on the popular soap, has said that she is "feeling better" after suffering a heart attack last week.

The 73-year-old actress is now recovering at home after being rushed to hospital with chest pains on April 29.

Speaking about her recovery, The Sun newspaper quotes Liz as saying: "Don't worry, I'm fine. I'm feeling better than I've felt for a long time."

Liz's husband Donald added: "She came out of hospital Friday night and she's fine. She's obviously having a lot of medication.

"All the time we were in Spain, she wasn't very well. We never went out of the apartment and stayed in all the time. We came back and she wasn't very well."

Dawn left Coronation Street six years ago due citing ill-health as the reason for her departure.

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Mumba 'signs $1 million musical deal'

Samantha Mumba has reportedly signed a $1 million deal to star in a Hollywood musical.

The Irish actress and singer is said to have landed a part in a new production that is said to be on the scale of Les Misérables, with contracts and roles already signed.

A source told The Daily Mail: "She was absolutely thrilled that she had landed a lead role in a big-budget Hollywood musical.

"She had been sworn to secrecy over what the film was, but said it was going to be as big-budget as Les Miserables."

"After the success of Les Mis at the box office Hollywood producers have been keen to follow it up and plans for the next big musical production are set to include Samantha."

The source added: "She has got the role and has signed contracts but has been told she has to wait for the film company to make the official announcement.

"Filming will start later this year for the multi million dollar film."

Mumba is best know for her role in 2002's The Time Machine.

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Michael Bay vows to work with Labeouf again

Director Michael Bay appears to have forgiven Shia Labeouf for slamming his Transformers films, insisting he would like to work with his former leading man in the future.

The 48-year-old filmmaker and the 26-year-old Even Stevens star fell out after LaBeouf attacked the first Transformers sequel at the Cannes Film Festival in France.

However, Bay has revealed that his decision not to feature Shia in the fourth Transformers outing had nothing to do with the things he has said about the franchise in the past.

Speaking to TheDailyBeast.com, Labeouf said: "He's (LaBeouf) trashed every movie he's ever been in, so... There's a specific reason why there's a new cast; it's just a way to freshen up the franchise.

"Shia and I are definitely going to work (together) again."

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Hollyoaks star teases future storylines

Hollyoaks star Nikki Sanderson has hinted that she will be involved in some challenging storylines in the near future.

The 29-year-old former Coronation Street star, who plays Maxine Minniver in the popular soap, also thanked fans for all their support.

Speaking to the Daily Star Sunday, Sanderson said: "I'm having such a good time and I absolutely love playing Maxine. She's an awesome character.

"I've had such a great reaction from the public. People have been so lovely. They've really taken to Maxine. The storylines coming up are going to challenge me as an actress.

"Whenever I get a new script, I can't wait to see what she's going to say next. She's feisty and happy but also really naive.

"She does so many things I would never do in real life. I love playing comedy but the really good thing with Hollyoaks is that they are going to show so many different dimensions to her."

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Bieber is two hours late for Dubai gig

Justin Bieber turned up on stage over two hours late for his Dubai concert last night (May 4).

The popstar angered fans and parents due to his late appearance at the Sevens Stadium as part of his Believe World Tour.

The gathered audience began to boo as organisers told them between 8pm and 10pm that Bieber was "on his way", reports al Arabiya.

Parents have since complained about their children being kept awake till the early hours of the morning, since Sunday is a school day in Dubai.

Rachael Quborsi, whose 11-year-old daughter only returned home from the gig at 12.45am, told Sky News: "I think it is disgusting that he can be over two hours late and he keeps on doing it. Who do these popstars think they are?"

Bieber's late arrival comes in the wake of making fans wait two hours at the O2 Arena in London on March 4.

He is set to play another gig in Dubai later today.

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RTÉ TEN'S Top TV Picks for Today

The Voice UK continues on its thrilling vocal journey, while Premier Soccer Saturday is mutating - there is a Premier Soccer Sunday too to look forward to after tonight's thrilling episode. Plus Jonathan Ross has Star Trek and Thom Yorke, quite a feat.

RTÉ TEN'S Top TV Picks for Today Saturday May 4

The Voice UK, BBC One 8.05pm

It's the final week of Blind Auditions and the final opportunity for artists to claim the remaining places on the coaches' respective teams, as the search to find the UK's next great voice continues. The coaches must fill the final coveted places on their teams based only on what they hear and their musical intuition. After Jessie J, will.i.am, Danny O'Donoghue and Tom Jones have chosen the 12 singers for their teams, the coaches dedicate themselves to developing their artists, sharing the secrets of their success and making their team's voices the very best they can be as they move into next week's Battle Rounds. Soap fans will be watching Actress Alice Barlow with interest. The actress spent two years in Hollyoaks playing the role of Rae Wilson, now she is impressing the coaches with her not inconsiderable vocal talents.

Premier Soccer Saturday, 8.00pm, RTÉ Two

Peter Collins and guests take a look back at the day's cross-channel top flight action including Swansea City v Man City, QPR v Arsenal and Spurs v Southampton. Make a note too about Premier Soccer Sunday, tomorrow night at 9.00pm on RTÉ Two, which will be broadcast in front of a live audience. Presenter Darragh Maloney will be joined by panellists John Giles, Kenny Cunningham, Ronnie Whelan and the lively audience for highlights, analysis and questions on the day's key games including Manchester United V Chelsea and the Merseyside Derby, Liverpool v Everton.

The Jonathan Ross Show, 9.20pm, UTV

This week, Wossie introduces Zachary Quinto and Zoe Saldana, the stars of one of this year's biggest movies, Star Trek Into Darkness. After being called back home, the crew of the USS Enterprise find an apparently obdurate and mysterious force which has attacked Starfleet and left Earth in chaos. Captain James T. Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise must lead the deadly manhunt to capture the attackers and, in the process, settle an old score. From hit stage show, The Illusionists, two of the world's greatest magicians will perform incredible acts. There's also a live performance from music megastar Thom Yorke from Radiohead.

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Corrie star Liz Dawn suffers heart attack

Former Coronation Street star Liz Dawn has been taken to hospital following a heart attack.

The 73-year-old actress, who played Vera Duckworth on the soap between 1974 and 2008, was taken to hospital after complaining of chest pains on April 29, reports The Sun.

She was transferred to Wythenshawe Hospital from her apartment in Whitefield, Greater Manchester. Her husband Donal Ibbertson said that Dawn is recovering from the incident.

He told the publication: "Liz is in hospital. She's had a slight heart attack. She is alright."

Dawn left Coronation Street in 2008 after being diagnosed with the lung disease emphysema.

Her former Corrie stars have been sending their best wishes, including Sally Lindsay who played barmaid Shelley Unwin.

She said: "Liz is the funniest person I've worked with. She was brilliant in Corrie - we all love her and every cast member will be right behind her.

"She always came across as a battleaxe. But in truth, she is one of the warmest, kindest, most considerate people you could ever meet."

Lee Boardman, who played Corrie villain Jez Quigley, said: "I'm so sorry to hear about Liz. She's a wonderful woman and we all send our love."

Sue Nicholls, who plays Audrey Roberts, said: "She is a real trouper - she will get through this. She gets as much love and support as we can possibly give."

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Knightley weds in low-key ceremony

Keira Knightley tied the knot with her musician boyfriend James Righton in a low-key ceremony in the south of France this morning (May 4).

The Anna Karenina actress exchaged vows with The Klaxons star in front of a small congregation of 11 of their close friends and family, reports The Daily Mail.

The couple married in the town hall in Mazan, a small town near Marseilles.

The 28-year-old star went for a laidback wedding look, wearing a white knee-length ballet-style dress which featured a tuille skirt.

She chose a pair of pale pink pumps and a chic Chanel boucle jacket, along with black sunglasses and a simple flower headband, to finish off the look.

Knightley chose a silver Renault Clio to pick her up from the wedding and bring her to the reception, which was about three miles away.

An onlooker said: "It was a very moving ceremony. Keira looked extremely moved by the whole thing - there were certainly tears of happiness.

"It was sunny day without a cloud in the sky. There were cheers of 'Well done, Keira' when she came out, but there were so few people present so they didn't make much noise.

"It was amusing to see them being driven away in a battered old Renault Clio - it certainly looked as though it had seen better days."

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O'Dowd talks about his new HBO sitcom

Chris O'Dowd is insisting that his new sitcom Family Tree is unlike anything he has done before.

The actor plays the lead role of Tom Chadwick in the HBO show, which is directed by This Is Spinal Tap star Christopher Guest.

Chadwick travels across Britain and America as he searches for his estranged family in the eight-part series.

Describing the role - which involves scripted work and improvisation - O'Dowd told Empire: "It's very reactive; unlike anything I've done."

Guest said that he was happy to work with O'Dowd, whose previous credits include hit movie Bridesmaids and TV shows The IT Crowd, Moone Boy and Girls.

The director - whose CV includes the comedy Best In Show - said: "Is it going to be epic? That's a big word. Let's just say it's a delight to finally work with Chris."

Fred Willard (Anchorman) and Tom Bennett (PhoneShop) will also appear in the sitcom, which will air on BBC Two this side of the Atlantic.

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Saldana says Avatar sequels together

Zoe Saldana has suggested that the two Avatar sequels will be filmed simultaneously.

The actress, who played Neytiri in the first instalment of the James Cameron movie franchise, said that filming the second and third movies needed to happen "at the same time".

Speaking on tonight's (May 4) The Jonathan Ross Show on UTV to promote the Star Trek Into Darkness film, she said: "I think that they're doing a part two and a part three and they're probably going to shoot it at the same time.

"Because if we just do two and then wait, I'll probably be 45 or 50 by the time we get to part three. It takes a long time, it's a very hard process."

Saldana also confirmed that shoot will begin early next year. It was recently revealed that the first sequel to the 2009 movie won't be released until at least 2015.

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Timberlake for music boss biopic

Justin Timberlake is to star as Casablanca Records founder Neil Bogart in a new film about the late record executive's life.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Spinning Gold will follow Bogart's rags to riches story up until his untimely death at the age of 39.

The project was formally announced yesterday (May 3) at the Cannes Film Festival and will begin filming early next year.

Timberlake will co-produce with Mark Damon, Laurence Mark and Gary A Randall, as well as Bogart's son Timothy Scott Bogart.

RCA Records will partner the project and release the film's soundtrack, which will feature a number of songs Bogart promoted during his career - but reimagined by today's musicians.

Bogart is credited with discovering artists such as Donna Summer, The Village People and Gladys Knight.

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OIivia Tracey for Saturday Night Show

Olivia Tracey, former Miss Ireland and hostess on high-tech 80s gameshow Murphy's Micro Quiz M, is among the guests on tomorrow's night's Saturday Night Show.

Olivia was the main attraction on the Sunday night quiz which saw families clash for prizes against a dazzling backdrop of state of the art computer graphics, all under the twinkling eye of host Mike Murphy. OK, it made Quicksilver look like The Krypton Factor.

Olivia, who represented Ireland in the 1984 Miss Universe compeition, now lives in LA where she works as an actor and she'll be talking to Brendan about life in la-la land.

Also on tomorrow night's show, which airs at 9.35pm on RTÉ One, Limerick-based guitar prodigy Andreas Varady, who has been signed up by Quincy Jones, talks about mixing with Hollywood legends, playing with some of most influential recording artists in the world and finding time to go to school. Andreas is just 15 years old.

Also joining Brendan is Mark Hederman, the Abbott of Glenstal Abbey. He'll be telling Brendan how he reluctantly became a priest and talks life, love and why he thinks the Catholic Church is a dinosaur.

Former Cork Butcher Pat Phelan, who lost everything to alcohol addiction, talks about how he rebooted his life, launched a tech startup and now looks set to be one of our most successful tech entrepreneurs.

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Timberlake set for Dublin summer gig

Justin Timberlake hits Dublin for one night only this summer for a gig at The Phoenix Park on Wednesday, July 10th.

Timberlake released his new album, The 20/20 Experience, in March and it topped the Irish chart as well as charts across the globe.

Tickets priced €79.50 inclusive of booking fee are on sale at 9.00am on Friday, May 10th from Ticketmaster outlets and online at www.ticketmaster.ie. Tickets are limited to 6 per person.

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Stars come out for Star Trek premiere

The cast of one of the most anticipated movies of the summer, Star Trek Into Darkness, were out in force last night for the London premiere.

Director J.J. Abrams took to the white carpet along with the cast of the 3D sci-fi film, Chris Pine, Benedict Cumberbatch, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana and Simon Pegg, ahead of the screening at the Empire Leicester Square theatre.

Also gracing the white carpet was franchise newcomer Alice Eve, who looked stunning in an Ermanno Scervino suede strapless dress with a subtle black belt.

Zoe Saldana also turned heads in a Vionnet dress, which featured a long black bodice and an asymmetrical white skirt.

Abrams ordered producer Bryan Burk, writer-producer Damon Lindelof, Robert Orci and Alex Kurtzman to the stage before calling the cast up as well.

Star Trek Into Darkness hits cinemas on May 9.

J.J. Abrams called the whole cast up on stage

(L-R) Actors Chris Pine, Alice Eve, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana and Benedict Cumberbatch attend the UK Premiere of Star Trek Into Darkness at The Empire Cinema last night (May 2nd) in London

Zoe Saldana turned heads in a Vionnet dress

Alice Eve sported an Ermanno Scervino suede strapless dress

Katie McGrath; J.J Abrams

Celebs joining the cast for the screening included Stephen Fry, Jonathan Ross and his daughter, boy band Union J and former Pussycat Dolls star Kimberley Wyatt.

Kimberly Wyatt and Max Rogers

Jonathan Ross and Honey Kinney Ross

Dakota Blue Richards

Bo Bruce

Union J

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Irish comics stand up for RTÉ's Comedy Awards

The RTÉ Two New Comedy Awards continue next Tuesday with another fistful of funny folk looking to take the inaugural crown.

This nationwide search runs over five weeks as 25 of the best new stand-up acts in Ireland perform in The Sugar Club, Dublin for a place in the final. The winner will receive a trophy and €5,000 prize money.

Hosted by Republic of Telly stars Jennifer Maguire and Bernard O'Shea, the next five comedians up include Anna Ryan - who freely admits that her journey to the Sugar Club isn't part of some master plan.

"I was doing a set in Blackrock one night after work and I happened to meet a bunch of people who were doing some stuff for RTÉ, and they told me about it," she recalls. "And basically, within a week, I was down in the Sugar Club recording."

Working full-time in advertising (that would've got the late, great Bill Hicks going), Anna was surprised to discover how much stand-up grew on her and offered an alternate view of life.

"I initially was doing it for the craic because I really enjoyed it, and it was a way for me to stop being passive-aggressive," she says.

"And then the more you do it the more you realise that there's a whole community of people who - it's not just something they do for two hours of an evening, they actually make a living out of it.

"The more you see of it, the more contagious it becomes. You start thinking: 'This is exactly what I want to do. These people are amazing.'"

Ryan makes her TV debut Tuesday on RTÉ Two New Comedy Awards. Does this mean champagne and canapés for 20 or a bottle of Chardonnay and a night alone with her cat?

"I'm sort of in two minds about Tuesday," Anna admits. "There's a part of me that's going: 'Oh God! I don't want a whole crowd of people because it's strange.'

"But no doubt there'll be a bunch of people coming over. But they'll all be just taking the piss out of me anyway."

Click here to see Anna Ryan's performance - and those of all 25 contestants - on the RTÉ Two New Comedy Awards.

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New RTÉ nature show makes shocking discovery

It may look set to be a sunny Bank Holiday weekend, but a new documentary to be aired on RTÉ One this Sunday (May 5), will make viewers think twice about putting their umbrellas away.

Expert Professor Mike Baillie from Queen's University Belfast has managed to show that it rained non-stop for 20 years in Ireland in 2345 BC, leading historians to believe that Noah's flood may have happened.

Speaking about The Secrets of the Irish Landscape documentary, producer Colm Crowley hinted that the massive weather phenomena may happen again.

He said: "The last major weather event happens around AD540 where it appears to rain for about 10 years. We haven't had one on this scale since around the time of Saint Patrick. Unfortunately we're long overdue one now."

Secrets of the Irish landscape presented by Derek Mooney starts this Sunday, May 5th on RTÉ One at 6.30pm.

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Here's looking at new - Summer on TV!

The return of The Good Wife and Blue Bloods and new shows including The Fall and The Americans - John Byrne forgoes Factor 50 for some top shows as he previews RTÉ television's new or returning summer acquisitions

Summer's (sort of) here and the time is right for, eh, watching telly? Anyone who thinks that the box is best ignored around this time of year is going to miss out on some great new and returning imports heading to RTÉ. Here goes . . .

The Good Wife
Due: May 23rd, RTÉ One

This is - and by some stretch - the finest primetime TV show on the planet. It may be billed as a legal drama but that barely touches the surface of this multi-layered, slick and utterly addictive series. Julianna Margulies heads perhaps the greatest cast assembled in TV history, which includes Josh Charles, Christine Baranski, Archie Panjabi, Alan Cumming, Matt Czuchry - all brilliant; and that's before considering the many great guest stars. Season four picks up where we left off, with Kalinda expecting an unwelcome visitor. Elsewhere, Zach gets pulled over by a cop, Peter's campaign becomes dominated by family values and Alicia deals with a journalist inquiring about the status of her marriage to Peter. At work, Will's suspension is over, and a trustee (played by Nathan Lane of Producers fame) is appointed to watch over the firm in the wake of its bankruptcy. Busy, busy, busy!

Blue Bloods
Due: May 10, RTÉ Two

Hugely popular cop show that focuses on the Reagan family, an Irish-American clan who are steeped in the NYPD, and led by Commissioner Frank Reagan (Tom Selleck), a character so pompous and self-righteous I just want to kick the telly. The cast is good - Donnie Wahlberg and Jennifer Esposito work particularly well as Danny, the angry detective and Jackie, his less malevolent partner - but it's about as subtle as napalm. In the season premiere, a dangerous criminal from Danny's past comes back to seek revenge and kidnaps Jackie. Meanwhile, Jamie (Will Estes) meets his new partner, while a young officer is shaken after he accidentally shoots an innocent man.

Person of Interest
Due: May 6, RTÉ Two

Now this could be great fun. Former Lost star Michael Emerson - he played the very spooky Ben Linus, leader of The Others - and Jim Caviezel (The Thin Red Line) head the cast as Harold Finch, an enigmatic software designer, and John Reese, a former CIA hitman who became homeless, who team up to prevent crimes before they happen. Finch built a computer system for the US government to predict future terrorist attacks and discovered that the computer was predicting ordinary crimes as well. Finch can determine the person involved, but not how or where they are involved. In his first assignment, Reese must help a district attorney who Finch has predicted will be involved in a violent crime.

The Fall
Due: May 12, RTÉ One

A BBC/RTÉ co-production rather than a straightforward acquisition, this brand new five-part drama set in Northern Ireland stars former X-Files star Gillian Anderson and follows a PSNI investigation into a string of recent homicides. When the PSNI are unable to close the case after 28 days, Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson (Anderson) of the Metropolitan Police Service is called in to review the situation. Under her new leadership, the local detectives must track down and stop the serial killer who is terrorising the city of Belfast. Even aside from Anderson, The Fall carries an impressive cast list. Simon Delaney (Bachelors Walk, The Good Wife) is probably the best-known Irish actor, while his former The Good Wife co-star, Archie Panjabi (she plays investigator Kalinda) is the other standout name.

Suits
Due: June, RTÉ Two

This fun-and-fluffy legal dramedy offers perfect summer viewing as it's easy on the eye and undemanding of the brain. Mike Ross (Patrick J Adams) is a brilliant college dropout with total recall. To make money to keep his grandmother in a private nursing home, he agrees to deliver a case of marijuana for his best friend. Mike discovers that the drug delivery is a sting operation and avoids arrest by accidentally sitting for an interview with Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht, above), one of New York's top corporate lawyers. Harvey is forced by company policy to hire an associate attorney, and takes Mike on, pretending that he is a Harvard Law graduate as required. Only Harvey's legal secretary and confidant Donna Paulsen (Sarah Rafferty) knows the truth.

The Americans
Due: May 23, RTÉ Two

Fans of Brothers & Sisters will recognise Matthew Rhys (he played Kevin), who stars alongside Keri Russell in this drama set during the latter end of the Cold War period, in the 1980s. Elizabeth (Russell) and Philip Jennings (Rhys) are two Soviet KGB officers posing as an American married couple in the suburbs of Washington DC in order to spy on the United States. In the pilot it's 1981, and we meet Philip and Elizabeth Jennings, undercover Soviet intelligence agents sent to the US 15 years previously. Their assumed identities are a married couple who run a travel agency, and even their own children Paige (Holly Taylor) and Henry (Keidrich Sellati) do not know their secret. Before coming to the US, they were instructed not to share their personal lives with each other, which makes their secret life together even more difficult.

Once Upon a Time
Due: May 18, RTÉ One

Making a TV show the entire family can enjoy is no mean feat these days - and this is certainly one of the oddest of them all. If you haven't seen it before, Once Upon a Time is all about fairytale characters. The Evil Queen interrupts the wedding of Snow White and Prince Charming to cast a curse on everyone and take away all their love so that she is the only one with a happy ending. Many of the fairy tale characters are then transported to a modern US town called Storybrooke where most of them have been stripped of their original memories and identities. Nuts!
On May 18, a week ahead of season two proper, Once Upon a Time: Magic is Coming offers a recap of the first season. If you've got kids and like fairytales, you'll love this show.

Suburgatory
May 21, RTÉ Two

One of the most enjoyable new comedies to come out of the US in recent times, Suburgatory stars former Six Feet Under star Jeremy Sisto (he played Brenda's brother, Billy) and relative newcomer Jane Levy (recently in Evil Dead) as George Altman, a single father who decides to get away from New York City to the upstate suburb of Chatswin so he can give his teenage daughter, Tessa, a better life. The show's strength is the range of characters and the quality of the supporting cast, including Cheryl Hines as Dallas Royce, Chris Parnell as Fred Shay and Alan Tudyk as Noah Werner.
As season two opens, Tessa returns to Chatswin after spending the summer in Manhattan with her grandmother. Upon returning, she continues to be interested in her mother's life and decides to perform at the local talent show.

Hell on Wheels
May 19, RTÉ Two

Back for a second season, Hell on Wheels is the proverbial gritty western. Set in 1865, the drama centres on the settlement that accompanied the construction of the first transcontinental railroad, referred to as "Hell on Wheels" by the rail company folk, prostitutes, mercenaries and others who make this mobile encampment their home. It stars Anson Mount as Cullen Bohannon, a former Confederate soldier who works as a foreman on the railroad as he tries to track down the Union soldiers who murdered his wife and young son, and Colm Meaney as Thomas "Doc" Durant, a businessman and investor in the transcontinental railroad, where he hopes to make his fortune.
In the season two opener, Cullen Bohannon robs trains, including one that's guarded by Elam Ferguson (Common); meanwhile Lily Bell (Dominique McElligott) and Doc Durant attempt to resume the Union Pacific Railroad's westward progress.

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Kris Kross star Chris Kelly dies aged 34

Chris Kelly, one half of the rap duo Kris Kross, famous for the 1992 hit Jump, has died in hospital aged 34.

The singer had been found "unresponsive" at his home yesterday, according to local media reports and was brought to a hospital in Atlanta, Georgia where he later passed away.

Kris Kross, made up of Chris Mac Daddy Kelly and Chris Daddy Mac Smith, were just 13 when they were signed to the So So Def label.

Kris Kross pictured at the height of their fame in the early 1990's

A statement released by So So Def and Kelly's mother, Donna Kelly Pratte said: "It is with deep sadness that we announce that our beloved Chris Kelly has passed away on May 1.

"To millions of fans worldwide, he was the trend-setting, backward pants-wearing one-half of Kriss Kross, who loved making music.

"But to us, he was just Chris - the kind, generous and fun-loving life of the party.

"Though he was only with us a short time, we feel blessed to have been able to share some incredible moments with him. His legacy will live on through his music."

Kris Kross reunited earlier this year to celebrate the anniversary of the label So So Def

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Orphan Kafi's story on The Zoo tonight

Dublin Zoo has released new pictures of Kafi, the three-year-old female western lowland gorilla who arrived at Dublin Zoo in August 2012 and whose story features on The Zoo on RTÉ One tonight, Thursday May 2, at 7:00pm.

Orphaned at five months, Kafi was hand-reared by the staff at Stuttgart Zoo and then joined a troop of gorillas in Romagne Zoo in France.

However, that move proved unsuccessful because Kafi was unable to integrate with the other gorillas, prompting a move to the Gorilla Rainforest at Dublin Zoo.

Watch a clip of Kafi on The Zoo by clicking the link on your left.

Ciaran McMahon, Dublin Zoo team leader for the gorillas, said: "After months of careful introduction Kafi has settled in very well. Luckily Lena, who is a fantastic mother with sharp maternal instincts, took Kafi under her 'wing', indicating her approval to the other gorillas.

"Kafi is a beautiful and very intelligent young gorilla. Since arriving she has learned amazing social skills and knows how to interact with the others, especially silverback Harry. The youngster is comfortable but still cautious and spends a lot of time playing with the other young gorillas, Kituba aged two, and Kimbiri, aged one-and-a-half years.

"We are extremely proud to have successfully integrated Kafi with the group. It is a phenomenal experience and great achievement. We still keep a very close eye on the troop and how they interact with each other.

"Once Kafi matures we hope that she will join the breeding programme and contribute to the survival of this highly endangered species of western lowland gorillas."

For more on Dublin Zoo, visit: www.dublinzoo.ie.

All photos: Patrick Bolger

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