Entertainment
Pembrokeshire stunt man sues America’s Got Talent after on-set incident
FAMED Welsh stuntman, Jonathan Goodwin, who was born in Pembrokeshire, has initiated legal proceedings against the producers of ‘America’s Got Talent: Extreme’ after a horrifying accident on the show left him paralysed in 2021. Goodwin, whose audacious performances catapulted him to celebrity status on ITV’s ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ in 2019, met an unfavourable fate while executing a high-risk stunt, which concluded in catastrophe and subsequently altered the course of his life and career.
The ominous incident involved Goodwin being suspended upside-down, situated precariously between two cars 30 feet in the air, all whilst bound in a straitjacket. The stunt went awry when the vehicles were prematurely released, ensnaring and crushing him amidst the flaming wreckage.
The 43-year-old entertainer, who recently captured the heart of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ 2023 star, Amanda Abbington, filed a lawsuit this week in the Los Angeles Superior Court. Within the legal documents, Goodwin enumerates various entities, including Fremantle Media North America, Syco Entertainment, and NBCUniversal, as defendants. Reports from TMZ elucidate that Goodwin is alleging that NBC and the producers incessantly amplified the risk and magnitude of the stunts in an attempt to galvanize viewership for AGT.
The lawsuit explicitly denounces the show for ostensibly neglecting to adhere to industry safety protocols, accusing them of employing inadequately qualified personnel to conceptualise and supervise the dangerous stunt. Moreover, Goodwin alleges that requisite tests, employing a crash dummy for example, were glaringly absent in the preparation phase. In the aftermath of the chilling incident, he has subsequently retired from his career as a stunt performer.
Engaging with his followers in a social media Q&A, Goodwin was probed about the incident by a fan: “What caused the accident? Improper set up or did you just f up?” His response, encapsulated in a selfie, steadfastly asserted his blamelessness: “I didn’t do anything wrong.”
A glimmer of love amidst tragedy, Goodwin and actress Amanda Abbington, renowned for her role in ‘Sherlock,’ embarked on their romantic journey in an unconventional manner. Social media facilitated their connection for over a decade, but it was only post Abbington’s separation from Martin Freeman that they met in person. Subverting traditional romantic timelines, Goodwin proposed marriage merely 30 minutes into their initial meeting, adding a tender chapter to a tale interwoven with professional turmoil.
This case undoubtedly casts a shadow upon the responsibility and ethics of reality TV production, catalysing debates regarding the extent to which entertainers are imperilled in the quest for viewership and the stringent necessity of upholding safety protocols within the industry.
Entertainment
Carew Castle Car Show: A timeless journey on wheels
The Carew Castle Car Show is gearing up to offer an enchanting day for automotive enthusiasts and families alike. Scheduled for Monday, 6 May, from 10 am to 3 pm, the event promises to showcase a splendid array of classic and vintage cars, motorbikes, and military vehicles, all set against the historic backdrop of Carew Castle and Tidal Mill.
This year, the event is drawing participants and spectators from across South Wales, each eager to feast their eyes on the mechanical beauties that symbolize different eras of motoring history. The show, which has become a must-visit for anyone with a penchant for automotive culture, is also a celebration of community and craftsmanship.
Adding to the vehicular allure, the event will feature live performances by the popular Pembrokeshire folk band ‘Razor Bill’, known for their vibrant and engaging musical style. Attendees can also enjoy the thrills of funfair rides brought by Pembrokeshire Attractions, ensuring that there’s something enjoyable for every age group.
For families, the Brilliant Birds Treasure Trail offers a delightful educational experience, allowing children and parents alike to explore the natural and historical richness of the area. Culinary treats will be available as well, with fresh Welshcakes and bacon rolls being served from the opening hour, perfect for those looking to indulge in local flavors.
Despite the excitement, the organizers remind attendees that the show’s occurrence is weather-dependent. However, with hopes high for a sunny day, the community is buzzing with anticipation.
Visitors should note that normal castle admission fees apply, but the ticket includes access to the car show, making it a value-packed day out. While the show is fully booked for exhibiting vehicles, showcasing the high demand and popularity of the event, there are plenty of reasons for spectators to attend and enjoy the varied offerings.
For those planning to attend, it’s an opportunity not just to admire the craftsmanship of vintage and classic vehicles, but also to immerse in the cultural and festive atmosphere that only Carew Castle can offer. With its combination of history, entertainment, and community spirit, the Carew Castle Car Show is set to be a highlight of this spring season in South Wales.
Entertainment
New card game ‘Tenby’ set to arrive soon!
TENBY is a captivating game that combines card drafting and strategic placement. Despite its abstract nature, it immerses players in the charm of the seaside town it’s named after, thanks to vibrant illustrations and recognisable landmarks.
The gameplay of Tenby focuses on tactics rather than luck. Players draft cards from a display and strategically place them in rows, following specific placement rules to maximise their scores based on feature adjacency. It’s quite the brain-teaser.
What makes Tenby truly stand out is its innovative action drafting system. Each round, players select actions from a shifting pool of cards, determining the turn order for the next round as well. This adds depth and strategy to each decision.
Tenby is suitable for all player counts, though it primarily offers a multiplayer-solitaire experience, which I personally appreciate. Turns are quick, ensuring there’s always something to ponder during downtime.
The vector art, while not my usual preference, bursts with colour and complements the game perfectly. I particularly enjoy the witty puns, such as the “Uptown Swirl” ice cream parlour!
It’s easy to learn and teach, with intuitive iconography. The unique action drafting mechanic adds layers of depth, and the vibrant art and theme increase its appeal.
After careful consideration, I struggled to find any downsides. Any suggestions I had are already on the designer’s to-do list, including an exciting solo mode!
For more information visit www.cosycubgames.com/games
Entertainment
Create a dried meadow flower artwork at Roch Castle
ROCH CASTLE near St Davids is hosting a workshop to create a dried meadow flower wall artwork to adorn your home on Sunday, May 19 (12pm-2pm).
During the two-hour session you will learn how to fill a 40cm x 30cm natural wood frame with your chosen mix of dried flowers, grasses and seed heads.
Most of the flowers have been grown and dried by Karen MacKechnie from the Floral Goat on her Pembrokeshire farm, with some additional stems sourced from other British flower farmers.
Places at the dried flower meadow workshop, which will be led by Karen, are priced at £70 per person to include all materials as well as tea/coffee and Welshcakes. Book online via Roch Castle’s website www.rochcastle.com or call 01437 725 566.
Free parking is available on-site but as space is limited please car share where possible. As a 12th century castle, access within Roch Castle is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties.
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