July 3rd 2024.
Shaun Ryder and Bez, best known as members of the iconic English rock band Happy Mondays, have been friends for decades. In 1993, they formed a new band, Black Grape, and have been collaborating ever since. But now, the two have taken on a rather unusual project together - planning Shaun's funeral.
Despite his past struggles with drug addiction, Shaun is now clean and has signed up for a new Channel 4 series called Celebrity Send Off. This show follows famous duos as they plan a fake funeral for their celebrity counterpart, with guidance from Co-op Funeralcare experts. The first episode features Bez as he takes on the role of arranger and prepares for Shaun's fake funeral.
As Shaun and Bez discuss their plans, they reflect on their shared experiences and friendship. They both agree that they want to honor Shaun's Catholic upbringing with a traditional church service. However, there are some differences in opinion when it comes to burials, cremations, and other details such as floral arrangements and transport methods. Bez also wants to incorporate Shaun's interest in UFOs and Extra-Terrestrial life into the funeral, as well as pay homage to their working class roots in Salford with a special plaque.
For Bez, the experience was a bit strange as he didn't want to think about his best mate dying. But he ended up enjoying the process and getting creative with ideas that he knew Shaun would appreciate. As the two watched the funeral together on a big screen, Bez couldn't help but feel emotional. He realized the importance of having open conversations with loved ones about their funeral wishes while they are still alive.
Shaun also found the whole experience surreal, but it made him realize the importance of discussing funeral plans with loved ones. He admits that it's not something we usually think about or talk about, but it is necessary.
Shaun and Bez have been friends and collaborators for many years, even appearing on Celebrity Gogglebox together. Shaun also came in second place on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in 2010. Other pairs featured on Celebrity Send Off include Gogglebox's Marcus Luther and his wife Mica Ven, and Olympian Kriss Akabusi and his daughter Shakira Akabusi.
The show can be streamed on Channel 4's YouTube channel. And as always, if you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, don't hesitate to get in touch with the entertainment team at The Agency. They can be reached via email, phone, or by visiting their Submit Stuff page. They would love to hear from you.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]