The BBC has released a new podcast series exploring the life of Salfordgangster Paul Massey.
Presented by investigative reporter Livvy Haydock, the 5 Live boxset will chart Massey’s rise from young tearaway on the local streets of Ordsall to the operator of one of the country’s biggest organised crime groups.
Massey’s ruthless rise to the top saw him seize control of drug supplies and nightclub doors in the city (including The Hacienda) – building a reputation as a community vigilante for dealing out his own brand of street justice.
This dark and riveting gangland tale is told by those who were closest to Massey; as well as an unheard interview with the man himself recorded before he was shot dead in 2015.
Host Livvy Haydock stated: “Telling the story of Salford’s ‘Mr Big’ was never going to be a straightforward one.
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“But as a crime reporter, I’ve been really interested to learn all about the power and eventual downfall of Paul Massey.
“As with all notorious figures, Massey’s story isn’t completely black and white and I hope listeners enjoy being transferred back in time to 90s Manchester, learning about this extraordinary, hair-raising tale.”
All episodes of ‘Gangster’ are available on BBC Sounds.
TV & Showbiz
Review | The Karate Kid at Palace Theatre and Opera House, Manchester – very much wax ON
Lonnie Bowes
The theatrical version of The Karate Kid has arrived at the Palace Theatre and Opera House, bringing a well-known story of discipline, resilience and mentorship to a live audience.
Best known for its iconic cinematic legacy, The Karate Kid translates surprisingly well to the stage. It leans less on spectacle and more on character, movement and emotional growth.
At the production’s heart, the story still revolves around a young outsider trying to find confidence and belonging in an unfamiliar environment, guided by an unexpected mentor.
The narrative follows Daniel, played by Gino Ochello, marking his first professional stage debut, as he struggles to adjust to a new life, facing intimidation and self-doubt before encountering the legendary Mr Miyagi, played by Adrian Pang.
What unfolds is more than just a story of learning karate; it becomes a study of patience, balance and inner strength for Daniel. The central relationship between student and teacher remains the production’s strongest theme, grounding the story in warmth and sincerity.
The bond between student and Sensei is clear to see throughout. Focusing more on the movement side of things, the musical definitely has its fair share of action; the production shines with storytelling through choreography.
The fight sequences are carefully staged. The whole production walks a balanced line between movement and tension that feels immediate without losing theatrical elements.
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These scenes are not about aggression alone but about control, reflecting the philosophy at the core of the story: balance. If you’ve seen the movies or the likes of Cobra Kai, you’ll know the vibes.
The cast works cohesively to maintain this balance. Ochello playing Daniel captures a mix of genuine vulnerability and determination as he attempts to settle into his new life in California, a million miles from the streets of Jersey he once knew.
While Adrian Pang portrays Mr Miyagi does this with a quiet authority. Their dynamic evolves on stage flawlessly, allowing the audience to invest in their journey rather than simply anticipating the next fight.
Visually, the production makes effective use of staging and design. The set shifts fluidly between locations, using lighting and more than a few well-timed transitions to keep the pace moving.
Subtle changes in atmosphere mirror the cast’s internal world, moving from insecurity and isolation to confidence and connection as the story progresses. The music throughout further supports this, blending nostalgia from the old flicks we all knew and love, with a new contemporary stage feel.
As the story builds toward its familiar ending, the focus remains less on winning and more on personal growth. The final moments emphasise discipline, self-belief and restraint rather than triumph alone.
A well-deserved standing ovation. (Credit: The Manc)
Reinforcing why the story has endured across generations and how the themes explored remain powerful pillars of life in today’s world.
Ultimately, The Karate Kid on stage at the Palace Theatre succeeds not by trying to replicate the film exactly, but by reinterpreting its themes for a live audience. It’s a production that leans into character, movement, friendship and emotional resilience.
It reminds viewers that its real power lies not in the fights, although sometimes necessary as a last resort, but in what they represent on the inside. We had a much deeper experience than we expected, and loved pretty much every minute of it.
BBC announces David Attenborough is returning to narrate Blue Planet III
Emily Sergeant
The BBC has announced that Sir David Attenborough will be returning to narrate Blue Planet III.
The original Blue Planet was broadcast across the globe to huge success more than 25 years ago now, and then in 2017, the follow-up Blue Planet II revolutionised our perception of life in the oceans.
But, as the BBC said, this was ‘only the beginning’, as it’s now announced that Sir David Attenborough will provide the narration for the forthcoming Blue Planet III.
This brand-new series is set to build on the groundbreaking legacy of the previous two series by ‘redefining the realm of possibility’ in underwater wildlife filmmaking.
Producers say it will reveal new and untold stories from magical underwater worlds.
Blue Planet III is coming – and Sir David Attenborough is providing narration for the new series!
“Combining our deeper understanding of the oceans with a whole new generation of camera technology including splash drones, long-term remote underwater cameras and a ‘mini dome’, we can now showcase stunning stories and extraordinary behaviours, previously impossible to film or only recently discovered,” a description for Blue Planet III on the BBC website reads.
Where Blue Planet II exposed the threats to our oceans, Blue Planet III will also explore stories of adaptation and resilience in this changing world, along with stories of hope and recovery.
Speaking ahead of the series’ release, Jack Bootle, who is the BBC’s Head of Specialist Factual Commissioning, commented: “I’m thrilled that David is taking the helm of Blue Planet once again.
“His extraordinary talent for storytelling has shaped the way generations of audiences understand and connect with the natural world, and his voice remains synonymous with the very best of the BBC’s natural history output.
“I’m absolutely delighted that he’ll be once more bringing his unique skill and authority to Blue Planet III.”
The Manc -
19th April 2021 
