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SUSAN BOYLE TO MAKE SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE AT DRAM OF DESTINY 

Internationally acclaimed Scottish singer Susan Boyle will make a special guest appearance at Dram of Destiny, taking to the stage at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh on Saturday 30 January 2027. 

Susan will join an evening of music, ceremony and entertainment that also features the internationally renowned Red Hot Chilli Pipers, whose high-energy fusion of traditional pipes, drums and rock will bring a contemporary pulse to the celebration. 

The announcement adds another major name to an event that is already attracting interest well beyond Scotland. Alongside guests travelling from across the UK, confirmed attendees will be making the journey from Texas, California, Canada and Germany to share in this ambitious celebration of Burns, whisky and Scottish culture. 

Susan’s appearance will give guests the opportunity to experience one of Scotland’s most recognisable voices as part of a wider programme combining music, storytelling, dining, ceremony and record-attempt activity. 

The occasion will also reunite Susan with Dram of Destiny’s Master of Ceremonies, acclaimed Scottish actor James Cosmo. The pair previously appeared as husband and wife Herbert and Eleanor Hopewell in the 2013 festive drama The Christmas Candle. 

Kevin Blair, founder and organiser of Dram of Destiny, said: 

“Susan Boyle’s voice has reached audiences throughout the world, yet she remains unmistakably connected to Scotland. We are delighted that she will be making a special guest appearance at Dram of Destiny. 

“Her time on stage will offer a wonderful contrast to the tremendous energy of the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and bring another memorable dimension to the evening. 

“It is also lovely to be reuniting Susan with James Cosmo. With guests now confirmed from across the globe, Dram of Destiny is becoming an international gathering united by a shared love of Scotland and its culture.” 

Susan Boyle became a global sensation following her appearance on Britain’s Got Talent, when her performance of I Dreamed a Dream captured the attention of millions. She went on to establish an international recording career while retaining the warmth, authenticity and Scottish identity that first connected her with audiences. 

Her guest appearance will be woven into the wider Dram of Destiny programme, creating a distinctive musical moment during an evening that will move from traditional Burns ceremony and dining to live performance and collective celebration. 

Susan Boyle said: 

“I am delighted to be joining Dram of Destiny for what promises to be a very special celebration of Scotland. 

“Burns Night brings together music, storytelling, friendship and tradition, and I am looking forward to being part of the evening. It will also be wonderful to see James again.” 

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers will bring their internationally recognised “bagrock” sound to the event, combining the power of traditional Scottish instruments with the drive and spectacle of a full live band. 

Dram of Destiny will bring thousands of guests together for a traditional Burns Supper, an in-person whisky tasting, live entertainment and record attempts for the largest Burns Night Supper and the largest in-person whisky tasting. 

The event is being delivered on a not-for-profit basis, with all proceeds remaining after operating costs donated to the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Funds raised will support the Foundation’s work to accelerate research into motor neuron disease and improve the lives of people living with MND and their families. 

Further performers, special guests and programme details will be announced as the event approaches. 

Early Bird Tickets and further information are available at www.dramofdestiny.com

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James Cosmo is HOSTAGE on Netflix! Thriller Star Reckons Actors Should Run the Country

Scottish acting icon James Cosmo, known for classics like Braveheart and Game of Thrones, is back and starring in the gripping new Netflix political thriller, Hostage – and he thinks actors might be better suited for politics than actual politicians.

The 77-year-old legend is one of the top names in the drama, playing Max Dalton, the seriously ill father of the British Prime Minister, Abigail (played by the superb Suranne Jones).

A Real-Life Political Nightmare

Hostage plunges into a sinister plot where PM Abigail’s husband is kidnapped, and the visiting French President, Vivienne Toussaint (Julie Delpy), is blackmailed. Dalton cuts a forlorn figure as he battles cancer while his daughter faces an impossible dilemma: resign immediately or risk her husband’s life.

Cosmo, who played Campbell in the Mel Gibson epic Braveheart, joked that his on-screen daughter, Suranne Jones, would give real-life politicians a run for their money.

“I think that it would be a good lesson for politicians to be more of themselves and not so much a politician,” he stated.

He believes the modern political landscape rewards communicators and people with presence—skills actors possess—over “philosophers and thinkers.”

“That Could Really Happen”

While the plot is fictional, James is convinced the high-pressure twists in Hostage could easily play out in the modern world.

“It’s a real high-pressure political thriller. I think with new access to the internet, politics is becoming outrageous,” he said. “You can look at a TV show or movie and think, ‘that could really happen’. I wouldn’t be all that surprised if this situation came up.”

The series forces the British PM and the French President to set aside their differences and work together, with the world watching, as they decide whether to meet the terrorist demands or stand strong and risk lives.

Lying Down on the Job (Literally!)

Cosmo’s character, Max Dalton, spends much of his time in a hospital bed as he battles cancer—a welcome change for the action veteran.

“It’s terrific. The older I get, I have riders in my contracts now that say I’ve either got to be sitting or lying down,” he quipped.

The actor admits the drama made him glad his own sons steered clear of politics, a world he’s happy to observe from a distance. “I don’t think as an actor I should have influence. I’ve got one vote and everybody else has got one vote and I don’t wish to influence people because they know my face from the telly.”

Supporting the Arts in the Age of AI

Having featured in several big Netflix productions, James praised the streaming giant for providing a platform for “new directors, new actors and new writers.”

However, he voiced concern over the rise of AI and the challenge it poses for young performers.

“I don’t know where AI is going to take us but I don’t think it’s going to get any easier for actors,” he admitted, stressing the need for continued support for the arts. “It’s vital that we do as I believe AI can only go so far. We need content that challenges people to think.“

Don’t miss Scottish legend James Cosmo and Suranne Jones in the heart-pounding political thriller, Hostage, streaming now only on Netflix.

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James Cosmo Takes a Leap into the Sci-Fi World with ‘Voidance’

Iconic actor James Cosmo, known for his roles in Highlander, Troy, and Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, is venturing into the realm of science fiction with his latest project, Voidance. The film, currently in post-production, offers a thrilling glimpse into a futuristic world where loyalties are tested and choices have far-reaching consequences.

A Stellar Ensemble:

Cosmo leads an impressive cast, including Zoe Cunningham, Neil Bishop, Mim Shaikh, Billy Price, and Chris Charles. The film, shot in London, is directed by Marianna Dean, marking her second feature.

Intriguing Plot:

Voidance follows Alana Toro (Cunningham) as she faces her final exam to join the ATIC Guard. Tasked with preventing a historical terrorist attack, Alana delves deeper into the scenario and begins to question her unwavering loyalty to ATIC. As she uncovers the motivations of both terrorists and bystanders, she grapples with a difficult choice: will she enact the solution she’s found, even if it goes against her newfound understanding?

A Director’s Vision:

Director Marianna Dean shares her excitement about working on such a “fast-paced and intriguing project,” drawn in by the script’s captivating blend of sci-fi elements and realistic characters.

Cosmo’s Enthusiasm:

Cosmo expresses his love for the science fiction genre and his enjoyment in playing this character, adding a touch of his signature charisma to the film.

With its compelling storyline, talented cast, and visionary director, Voidance is poised to become a must-watch for fans of both James Cosmo and thought-provoking science fiction. Keep an eye out for this exciting new addition to the sci-fi landscape!

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Lights, Camera, Action in Wales: ‘Salvable’ Wraps Filming!

The Welsh landscape has just set the scene for the highly-anticipated boxing crime-drama, Salvable. Featuring a star-studded cast led by Toby Kebbell, Shia LaBeouf, and James Cosmo, the film promises a captivating tale of redemption and the fight of a lifetime.

Salvable - Promotional Image. (C) Metro International

A Knockout Cast:

Salvable boasts an impressive ensemble, including Kila Lord Cassidy, Elaine Cassidy, Michael Socha, Aiysha Hart, Nell Hudson, and Barry Ward. Adding authenticity to the boxing world, former World Champion boxer Carl Froch trained the lead actors and makes a cameo appearance.

A Story of Redemption:

At the heart of Salvable is Sal “The Bull”, a washed-up boxer nearing 40, played by Kebbell. Haunted by regrets, Sal’s life takes a turn when his old friend Vince (LaBeouf) introduces him to the world of illegal boxing. This opportunity offers a chance at redemption, but it threatens his bond with his daughter, Molly (Lord Cassidy).

Behind the Scenes:

Salvable marks the directorial debut of UK-based duo Franklin & Marchetta, known for their music videos. Producers include Jamie Gamache and Connor O’Hara for Lowkey Films, and Julien Loeffler and James Kermack for Featuristic Films. Aisling Knight of CBA Casting led the casting efforts, and Simon Plunket is the Director of Photography.

A Global Sensation:

With Metro International Entertainment handling worldwide sales, Salvable has already generated buzz across the globe, securing pre-sales in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Portugal, Former Yugoslavia, CIS, and the Middle East.

Stay tuned for more updates on Salvable, a film that promises to pack a punch both in and out of the ring!

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Dram dreams come true for Scottish actor James Cosmo as he launches STORYMAN, his premium blended whisky made by Annandale Distillery

Iconic Scottish actor James Cosmo has launched his own whisky, STORYMAN, created in a unique partnership with award-winning Annandale Distillery in Dumfries & Galloway. 

James was joined by family, friends, fellow actors and celebrities, international whisky experts, investors, and members of the team who created STORYMAN, for the London launch at The Caledonian Club in Belgravia on Wednesday night. [June 14] 

They heard how James first became aware of Annandale Distillery when he was filming Outlaw King [the distillery is built on what had been King Robert the Bruce’s land, near Annan] and was so impressed with the team’s passion for creating the best single malt single cask Scotch whisky that he entrusted them with making his dream of having his own whisky – “the kind that is delicate, complex, and with a warmth that grows on you” – come true. 

It was an almost three-year journey to create the perfect whisky inspired by James, his iconic presence and personality, with a distinct flavour profile based on months of complex research by international research companies MMR (Mathematical Market Research) Research Worldwide and Huxley Global, owned by Annandale Distillery co-owners Professor David Thomson and Teresa Church.  Professor Thomson said: “We wanted to capture James’ essence in a bottle, to create a whisky that reflects his personality, his values and his stories. We used our expertise in consumer research to understand how people perceive James and what kind of whisky they would associate with him. We then translated that into a sensory profile that guided the blending process.”  

Master blender Keith Law describes the unique blend of Annandale’s award-winning Man O’ Words and Man O’ Sword (peated) whiskies, as “a tale of mellow fruitfulness, smooth honey and rich vanilla, with a spicy edge that brings real warmth to its heart.” 

And is that warmth that James was delighted with for his whisky, named STORYMAN to reflect his 60-year career as a storyteller with iconic roles in films and TV programmes including Braveheart, Highlander, Game of Thrones, Trainspotting, Jack Ryan, and Six Four. 

“STORYMAN is a lovely blend,” he says. “It’s gentle and the sort of whisky you want to sit by a fire and have a little sip of. It’s delicate and thoughtful and absolutely a whisky for telling stories with. I’d like to think that people will open a bottle and sit back and regale people with stories.” 

You can be part of James Cosmo’s story: STORYMAN is available to buy now at www.storymanwhisky.com