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Researchers in Germany have conducted the world’s largest study on facial attractiveness, finding women’s faces were consistently rated more attractive than men’s—even by other women. The findings raise questions about how society values appearance and judges others. Model, author and former Woman Alive editor Tola Doll Fisher joined Esther to reflect on the "Attractiveness Gap" between men and women!
Released on 28 May 2026
More than six years after the UK's first COVID-19 lockdown, the pandemic's impact was still being felt physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. With fresh concerns over outbreaks including Ebola, meningitis and hantavirus, questions around public health and preparedness returned. Esther spoke to David Munkley from World Vision about Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and emergency physician Giles Cattermole about frontline lessons, faith and resilience after COVID-19.
The final showcased singers, dancers, comedians and performers, including acts with Christian connections. Spoken word artist Sonny Green moved audiences with an emotional performance, while Hawkstone Farmers Choir, led by former worship leader Lizzie Deane, performed an original song and went on to win the competition. Esther spoke to Gemma Francis of The Big Sing and Baptist minister and comedian Allan Finnegan about the growing visibility of Christian performers on one of the UK’s biggest shows.