Home//Inside Soap UK/13 - 2019/In This Issue
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Welcome!Oh, I love it when soaps use their history, of course I do – I’ve been a mega-soap fan my whole life! But there can be a fine line between giving your long-time fans a treat, and alienating your more recent viewers. However, I think EastEnders has got that balance just right this week.“EastEnders has the balance just right!”Firstly, there’s a return to the Square for Ben, with a new attitude – and a new face – as well as an old friend, Lola, the mother of his daughter Lexi. The pair have loads of connections to Walford, but also come straight in with an intriguing mystery that will see newer fans’ interest piqued, while the older ones will enjoy seeing the duo reunited with their friends and family.Also this…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019“It was my choice for Rana to die!”There was outcry from Kate and Rana – aka ‘Kana’ – fans following Rana’s tragic death in the factory roof collapse last week, with many furious that bosses had decided to rip her and Kate apart in such a devastating way.But as we sit down for one final chat with star Bhavna Limbachia – who leaves the show after playing Rana for three years – she tells us that bumping off her character was her decision…How did you feel about Rana’s exit?It was my choice for Rana to die, as it was the only fitting end for the character. Kate and Rana had fought so hard to be together, there was no way Rana was going to have a change of heart, hop in a cab and leave. I felt…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019BEN’S BACK ...for trouble?Missing Ben Mitchell makes a shock reappearance in Albert Square this week, with his former love Lola and their daughter, Lexi, in tow – so what’s prompted their sudden return?Phil is already up to his eyes in trouble, thanks to the gang of Costa Del Crime heavies currently breathing down his neck for cash. But when Ben pledges to support his dad, as he and Lola make themselves at home again, just how honest are the pair’s intentions?“There’s a reason Ben and Lola have turned up at this point,” teases Max Bowden, who has taken over the role of Phil’s son. “Ben’s been away in Portugal before now, but he’s also been building a family relationship with Lexi, and visiting her and Lola up in Newcastle, where they’ve been living.…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019CLOSE TO HOME“This plot has been important to me, especially the emotional abuse between Sinead and Laurie,” explains Steph. “I’ve lived that in real life, so I want to make a difference – I want those watching to recognise the signs, and get help if they’re in the same situation. Sometimes in a relationship, you don’t know what’s right and what’s wrong, but people should know these things aren’t okay.“I’m excited to see how viewers will respond,” adds the star. “Hopefully it will help people to ask for help. You doubt yourself so much, but hopefully this story might make something click for people.“I’m in a good place in my life, so it’s been hard going over it all again,” continues Steph. “My mum and my boyfriend [Owen Warner, who plays Romeo]…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019STOP PRESS!Street slip-upITV3 viewers were baffled when the channel aired classic Corrie episodes in the wrong order! After skipping the instalment from 23 December 1991, it then showed the two Christmas Day episodes from that year the wrong way round – leading to a string of complaints.Hot stuff !Home and Away’s Lynne McGranger (Irene) is set to strip off for the Aussie version of The Real Full Monty! She will join other female stars baring all on the one-night-only special to help raise cancer awareness.Bye bye, Burrows?Hot on the heels of Kym Marsh’s departure from Corrie, her screen son James Burrows (Dr Ali) has hinted that he could be leaving, too! “I won’t stay for years,” he admitted. “There are other roles I’d like to do.”…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Brave Ruby fights back!Ruby is forced to muster every ounce of courage she possesses this week, as she faces her rapists, Ross and Matt, in court.Martin’s old school mates are charged with sexually assaulting Ruby following an evening out last October. But with both men insisting that they’ve done nothing wrong, will justice be served? Or will Ruby have to watch on as they get away with their vile crime?“Ruby has been haunted by this for six months”“Ruby’s been haunted by the events of that night for the past six months, so this is her chance to finally put what happened behind her,” explains our Walford insider. “She’s gone through so many extreme emotions since that fateful evening – and there have been moments when she’s questioned whether or not she has the…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019STAY OR GO?Sally’s attitude towards her sister mellows considerably this week, after she realises she owes Gina a huge debt of gratitude. Sally knows that if it hadn’t been for Gina’s intervention, it could have been a whole different story, and Tim’s health scare could have been a hundred times worse – or she could even have lost him completely. But with Gina planning to leave, is it too little, too late?Following Tim’s return home from the hospital, Sally heads over to see Gina to say a proper thank you. And Gina is utterly stunned when her sis demonstrates her sincerity by asking her to stay in Weatherfield! Both Sally and Tim tell Gina that they’re willing to put the past behind them, and that they want her to hang around.However, will…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Jean’s terror!Jean Slater opens up to Linda and Shirley Carter this week, as she finally admits to her friends how terrified she is to begin treatment for her ovarian cancer.Even since she moved into the Carters’ home above the Queen Vic, Jean has kept her true feelings about her illness mostly to herself. And as this week begins, she carries on shutting out everyone else, by lying to Shirley and Linda and going to her hospital appointment alone. However, when she arrives, she realises that she could have really used some support after all…“Jean is trying to take her troubles somewhere else,” says Gillian Wright, who plays her. “She thinks that Stacey has enough on her plate and Jean doesn’t want to trigger a bipolar episode for her. Jean has a…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019You can say that again!“You were never that good with heights, were you, Sal?”She’ll be even worse now!“I’ve got a good feeling about this. And when I’ve got a good feeling, nothing can go wrong.”Hmm. Next time Emma has a good feeling, get the first tram out of town.“Today is going to be the best day of our lives!”Will soap characters never learn to stop saying this?“This protest will end in disaster. You mark my words.”On the other hand – always listen to Beth!“The dress is ruined again.”Yes – brick dust stains terribly. What bad luck for you!“Who gets married in a jumpsuit? Except someone from ABBA. Or Elvis in the Vegas years.”We love Jenny at weddings. She never has a good word to say about anything.…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Busted?There’s a shock for Maya and Jacob this week, as David arrives home early from his trip, and finds the furtive pair cosied up together on the sofa!David reckoned that Maya was a safe pair of hands for his teen son, little realising the secret couple were delighted about being left to their own devices in David’s absence. They’re making romantic plans for their final night alone together when he makes his unexpected appearance – and David doesn’t look happy about the scene he walks in on.Can Maya explain away the awkward situation?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Ken 4 Claudia?Beth and Claudia butt heads this week, at a do for baby Bertie – yet as Ken leaps to Claudia’s defence, she wonders what it means for their relationship.Claudia’s gift of a baby monitor backfires after she hears Beth slagging her off via the machine! Ken stands up for Claudia – although when he insists that they’re nothing but friends, Claudia is hurt.Later, the pair end up having an emotional heart-to-heart in the Rovers – so will they finally admit to one another that they are more than just good mates?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019The BIG DEBATE!What exactly do Corrie bosses have against Kate? First she loses her brother Aidan, now her fiancée Rana! The final scenes between them were utterly heartbreaking – but I’m glad they got to say their wedding vows in the end.HeatherI’m absolutely fuming after Rana’s death! I’ve invested so much time in her relationship with Kate, and the least the two of them deserved was a happy wedding, not a horrible, tragic ending to their love story! Why did Corrie have to bump off Rana? It sends out a terrible message that they decided to kill the gay, Muslim character.Becky, KnutsfordI get that people are sad about Kate and Rana’s relationship ending in such a tragic way, but actress Bhavna Limbachia wanted to quit. What would fans prefer, that Rana just…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Double TROUBLE!As Max Bowden takes over the role of Ben Mitchell from previous actor Harry Reid, it’s not the first time someone new has stepped into a part, but that doesn t make the task any less daunting.However, arriving in the show alongside an old hand must surely help, and that’s certainly the sense we get on joining Max and co-star Danielle Harold – whose character Lola accompanies Ben back to Walford this week. And judging by the banter between the pair as we settle down for a chat, both the actors and their Albert Square alter egos are set to be a force to be reckoned with…Welcome to EastEnders, Max! So how was your first day on set?Max Day one I was thrown in at the deep end – it…5 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019STAR turn!Earlier this month, Daniel wowed audiences by ditching Billy’s dog collar to transform into The Greatest Showman.As a contestant on All Star Musicals, Daniel took on the role PT Barnham, the real-life circus maestro played in the hit film by Hugh Jackman. His rendition of the film’s song From Now On wowed the judges, and he was crowned the winner.“I had the time of my life,” enthuses Daniel. “I’ve done lots of theatre in the past, but not musical theatre, so it was a new experience. As much as I adore Corrie, it’s good to push yourself and do something different!”…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Taking a LIBERTY“If a person like Liberty gets proposed to, she goes all in!” exclaims Hollyoaks star Jessamy Stoddart, as she gives us the lowdown on her alter ego’s engagement blunder. “She’d be so embarrassed if she discovered the truth – we all know she gets her wires crossed a lot!”Liberty’s latest romance with Sami has been progressing slowly – however, it’s about to soar to new heights when she thinks he’s popped the question! But did he really mean to propose to her?“It happens at an awkward meal,” explains Jessamy. “Liberty and Sami end up there with their exes, which is bad – yet much worse when one of them is Sinead! It’s an amalgamation of jealousy and a few glasses of wine, but Sami definitely doesn’t propose!”So while Liberty is…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019“It says on theDoctors website that you once posed as a pilot to get on a plane – how did that happen?”I was going out with a pilot and he flew single-operated chartered flights. To join him, I used to pose as his co-pilot. I’d be dressed in the uniform and have all the maps on my lap, and we would tell the clients that I was just learning the route. I never handled the plane in any way, so it was all legal – if a bit naughty!Every week, we put your questions to a star of the soaps. Look out for requests on our Facebook page, or email your questions to youask@insidesoap.co.uk, putting the actor’s name in the subject line. Our favourite question each week will win a £20 prize!PHOTOS: GETTY, FAMOUS, TWITTER/BBCDOCTORS…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Couch POTATOLouisa I’ve just seen the movie Shoplifters, which was up for a Foreign Language Film Oscar earlier this year. It’s about a poor Japanese family, and it’s amazing. I also saw Beautiful Boy – I’m surprised that wasn’t Oscar-nominated because both of their performances [Steve Carell and Timothée Chalamet] in it are amazing. I thought it was great.Saoirse-Monica I’m really into Mad Men at the minute – it’s sort of ruining my life, slightly! It’s making me really unproductive. And comedy-wise, we all love Catastrophe – we’re its biggest fans, so we were really excited when it came back. I think Sharon Horgan’s writing is amazing.Louisa I’ve just started watching Pure, the comedy-drama about a woman with OCD. And I watch a lot of RuPaul’s Drag Race, because it’s so…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019TALKING SHOPInside TV is used to talking to people who are excited about their new projects, but even we were bowled over by Paul Martin’s enthusiasm for his new series, Curiosity. Mind you, it’s not surprising, as he doesn’t just present it – he and his wife Charlotte also came up with the idea…“We looked at the daytime schedules and thought, ‘The Crystal Maze is a great show’,” Paul tells us. “So I thought, let’s write a show that’s a bit like that, meets Four Rooms, meets an antiques show. I pitched it as ‘Four Rooms through four centuries’!”In each episode, two teams of amateur antiquers take part in a selection of games, hoping to win the chance to rummage in Paul’s cabinet of curiosities. The team that curates the most…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019IN and OUTSTIRLING GALLACHER (Paula Martin, Corrie )IN We haven’t seen all that much of lawyer Paula since she lost Sally’s court case towards the end of last year, before breaking up with girlfriend Sophie. However, could their romance be back on track? Star Stirling recently tweeted a short video of herself looking very cosy with Brooke Vincent (aka Sophie), adding, “I have had the absolute and total pleasure of goofing about with this dreamboat all day.” We can’t wait to find out more… Later this springLACEY TURNER (Stacey Fowler, EastEnders )OUT soon Pregnant be taking star Lacey a break will from Albert Square, although hopes to return soon. “I started at EastEnders the day after I left school,” she told OK! magazine. “It will be nice to have a break, but…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019The HOT listTHEATREHAIR THE MUSICALIt’s 1967 and HAIR’s hippie youngsters want to change the world – but Claude, Berger and their roommate Sheila struggle to steady their violent world with the dream of a peaceful one. The show will tour the UK and stars former Hollyoaks actress Daisy Wood-Davis (Kim Butterfield) – for info, visit www.hair50.comWin!Text or write in book * to win or DVD any on this page bottom (*see details of the at page the )DVDLES MISÉRABLESAt a time of civil unrest in France, Jean Valjean can’t escape his past life, while his future is threatened by an old nemesis. Elsewhere, Fantine goes to desperate lengths to provide for her daughter. Starring Lily Collins and Dominic West.Win!For the chance to win a copy, tell us who plays Holby City’s Dominic:…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Carla UNDER ARRESTUnderworld boss Carla is handcuffed and taken to Weatherfield police station this week – charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the factory collapse.Her arrest comes after she is forced to admit her part in the horrifying incident to mourners at Rana’s memorial, provoking fury from the survivors, her family and Rana’s loved ones.Carla’s world starts falling apart once investigator Wayne concludes his structural report and informs Carla she has more questions to answer. Although she tries to stick to her story, the intensity of Carla’s guilt and the police probe push her beyond her limit. Peter’s horrified when Carla decides the only thing that she can do is tell the truth – but there’s worse to come when it tumbles out at Rana’s emotional memorial.“Kate looks to Carla for the…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Will you marry me?Dan is hoping for a happy ever after this week, when he proposes to girlfriend Kerry – but is he in need of a miracle?Dan’s keen to get their relationship back on track after Kerry flirts with another man – yet it’s fair to say that she doesn’t exactly look bowled over with excitement when he gets down on one knee in the Woolpack! As Dan’s daughter Amelia looks on with pride, however, can Kerry somehow be persuaded to say yes?“It’s the last throw of the dice so far as their relationship is concerned,” admits Liam Fox, who plays the wannabe husband. “He’s hoping that when he steps up to the mark and gets that engagement ring out, all the bad vibes of their relationship will be forgotten – that…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019BAD ROMANCEWhile Phil’s playing happy families with his boy Ben, he’s also keen to keep his oblivious daughter Louise out of danger. Fearing that the next step for the violent gangsters he’s riled could be to target his little girl, Phil insists that Keanu must do whatever it takes to keep her safe – pressuring her former boyfriend into getting their romance back on track. However, when Keanu’s ex-lover Sharon returns home to find the pair cosying up together on the sofa, can she manage to keep her jealousy under control?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019HOME FOR HIS MUM!Sean’s much-anticipated first scenes back in Walford have been revealed, and it looks as if it’s going to be an emotional time as he’s reunited with the Slater family.It’s no secret that Sean’s set to return to Albert Square in the wake of mum Jean’s cancer diagnosis. But it’s not just on screen that ‘Mum’ was instrumental in his return. Actress Gillian Wright (aka Jean) has revealed that it was a meeting with EastEnders’ new boss Kate Oates that first sparked the idea that Sean – played by now-Hollywood star Rob Kazinsky – could come home.“It was very much a discussion with Kate – she said I want to pitch this idea to you [of Jean’s cancer, see p24] and see what you think,” explains the star. “Kate asked me…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Bear crashes in!There’s a big shock for Paddy and Chas this week – as Bear Wolf comes back into their lives, just at the wrong time!After their frank conversation in Belfast, Paddy had presumed that he and his biological father had drawn a line under everything and wouldn’t cross paths again. He couldn’t be more wrong, because Bear Wolf shows up this week, and it’s clear that he has unfinished business with Paddy… but what does he want?“It’s quite a mystery,” says our Emmerdale spy. “Bear Wolf made it clear to Paddy in Belfast that he wasn’t an emotional man, and that he couldn’t be a father in the traditional sense. It looked as though they’d missed the chance to build a relationship, and Paddy had made his peace with that. So,…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019STACEY’S JUSTICEIt’s not just a challenging week for Ruby – her close pal Stacey also struggles to keep it together when she’s reminded of what Archie did to her 10 years ago.As she kicks herself for messing up her testimony, Stacey admits to her best friend that she never got to face her attacker in court. With that in mind, Ruby suggests an idea – and takes Stacey to visit Archie’s grave, in the hope that she can finally find some closure.But as Ruby encourages Stacey to get everything off her chest that she feels about Archie, will this simple act of venting help Stacey to truly move on?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Vote Nicola King!Nicola launches her bid to win a seat on Hotten’s council this week – however, she discovers that she has one formidable opponent!The outraged woman wants to be elected so that she can oppose plans for the school to operate a four-day-week policy, but also because it’ll help her curry favour with boss Kim Tate. After spending too long being under Graham’s thumb and robbed of her managerial roles at Home Farm and the factory, Nicola’s ready to lead again. The issue is that another woman stands in her way – and she has quite a manifesto.“Hilary Benshaw is everything that Nicola isn’t – she’s calm, well-spoken and very much election-ready,” whispers our Emmerdale spy. “In contrast, Nicola looks as though she’s just playing at politics, and can’t be taken…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019SHIRL BE THERE!Jean’s illness has revived an on-screen friendship that we haven’t seen an awful lot of in recent times, as this week we see her open up to Shirley Carter – who had a cancer scare of her own, back in 2008.“I think it’s a very special relationship,” considers Gillian. “I can’t speak for Linda [Henry, who plays Shirley], but I feel that they’re very dear to each other and they care about each other a lot – even though they can be very brusque and bitchy about one another! You saw with all of the stuff at the hen party recently, when Jean had the pram – it was Shirley’s way of trying to cheer her up. It’s not totally appropriate, but she doesn’t blame Shirley. Jean is just struggling…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Gary’s blackmail shock!Blackmailer Gary piles the pressure on Peter this week – but the cash that he receives isn’t enough to satisfy loan shark, Rick.Following the horror at Underworld, Gary knows that Peter and Carla are desperate to keep him quiet about what she knew about the state of the factory roof. Now owing thousands to scary Rick, Gary is forced to demand payment from them for his silence, so that he can pay off his violent creditor. However, if Gary thinks he’s found a solution to his problems, he’s mistaken!“He’s in too deep, and Rick enjoys having people like Gary in his debt,” warns our Corrie insider. “The money Peter can scrape together isn’t enough to cut Gary loose. Rick loves nothing better than ramping up the interest on his loans…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Dean turns to drugs!Dean takes drastic action to help him forget about Ross’ murder this week – by scoring sleeping pills from his River Boy pals!Dean’s been struggling to sleep in the wake of Colby shooting Ross in cold blood – and when he does nod off, he’s plagued by nightmares…“Although Dean’s a bad boy, he still has a moral compass,” reckons Patrick O’Connor, who plays him. “Deep down, he believes that shooting Ross wasn’t the right thing to do. Every time he closes his eyes, he has flashbacks to the murder – and as a result, sleep is the last thing he wants.”Willow can see just how much pain her best pal is in, so calls his mum Karen to the Bay. But will she be able to help her boy through…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Honey to the BBilly continues to pine for his ex-wife Honey this week – but will he use some potentially explosive information to ruin her new relationship?Having witnessed a smooch between Honey’s new squeeze Adam and Habiba last week, Billy is wrestling with what he should do with the news. However, as he confides in Jay about what he saw, Jay advises his pal to stay out of it!Billy and Honey are thrown together later in the week, when they meet with the headmaster of a potential new school for their son Will. But rather than using the opportunity to get closer to Honey, Billy blows his chances by embarrassing her in front of the teacher!Does Billy stand any hope of ever winning back his former flame?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Farewell, Piper!Piper decides that her time in Ramsay Street is up this week, and bids an emotional goodbye to her family and friends.After the bombshell that Imogen is working as Finn’s defence lawyer, frustrated Piper and her sister clash. As the two girls open up, Imogen delivers Piper a reality check – she’s unhappy and doesn’t know what she wants out of life, or where it’s going.Having celebrated the memory of her brother Josh on the anniversary of his death, Piper realises that she might need to take a risk and uproot her life in Erinsborough to chase a different future. Delivering the news to her neighbours that she’s leaving, Piper visits Leo and breaks it off with him.With Leo left hurt, Piper then gives her mum some advice about her…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019SOAP BOX Request SPOTSTYLE FRIESMyra in Hollyoaks was wearing a jumper covered in chips the other day – it was hideous, but would make a great comedy present for my sister! Where can I get one?AnnieI’ve found a 3D french fries sweatshirt just like Myra’s for £19.78 on beautifulhalo.com! I’m sure your sister will be delighted with it…MOVIE KING?Could you please put me out of my misery and let me know how many action films Corrie’s Alison King (Carla) has been in? I was watching a Steven Seagal film the other night and saw her in it – has she done more?Mrs Marilyn CookThe film you mention is 2005’s Submerged – but Alison also had a small role in Shanghai Knights with Owen Wilson and Jackie Chan in 2003, as well as bigger…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019“Ben’s very clever – but he needs Lola!”“I can’t do this. I thought I could, but being back here, lying to everyone like this…” So says Lola to Ben in EastEnders’ recently released new season trailer – but while Max and Danielle have already admitted that their alter egos may be on some kind of mission (see our story on p10), who might be the driving force behind whatever it is they’re up to?“Ben’s got Lola on board – for now,” teases Danielle. “They’re not coming back with a ‘bam’, and it’s nice to take time with the storylines. It’ll be building week by week, which is great. Lola’s feisty and mouthy, but she’s always got a conscience with her, whereas Ben maybe doesn’t…”“Being one of the Mitchells, Ben’s always been around dodgy dealings and he’s not…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Where there’s a WILL!“The first scene I filmed, I put my stethoscope on the wrong way round!” chuckles Casualty’s latest recruit, Jack Nolan, who plays locum doctor Will Noble. “I’ve had no medical training, so I didn’t realise there was a right way and a wrong way to put it on!”Thankfully, Jack’s alter ego is a lot more on it when he arrives at Holby City’s ED this week, planning to work just a few shifts while department boss Connie looks for a full-time consultant for the position. Will soon makes a good impression on his new colleagues, Connie included – so much so that she invites him to apply for a permanent post at the hospital! But can the nomad be tempted to put down some roots?Hey, Jack! What can you tell…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019“Graham could turn against Kim if pushed too far...”Kim is left reeling this week, when her trusty henchman Graham goes behind her back and tells the police that Joe is still alive. But as actor Andrew Scarborough reveals, Graham’s loyalties stretch further than Kim – whether she likes it or not…“Yes, for whatever reason, Graham’s in love with Kim,” the star tells us. “However, Kim’s making it seem as if she’s about to go off and kill Joe – for real this time! Of course, Graham won’t let that happen, so if he makes it public knowledge that Joe’s not dead, it makes it more difficult for Kim to kill him in some secretive way. So that’s exactly what he does.”The news that Joe is alive is bound to come as a big surprise all round – not…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 201910 totally true FACTS about... Maureen Lipman1 Maureen Diane Lipman was born on 10 May 1946 in Hull, to parents Maurice Lipman and Zelma Pearlman. Maureen’s love for the arts was fuelled by going to Beatles concerts and watching the Elizabeth Taylor film Butterfly. She was encouraged to act by her mother, who used to push her on to the stage at local pantomimes!2 After completing drama school, Maureen mainly worked in theatre – but soon moved into television, appearing in several sitcoms. Her big break came in the show Agony, which aired from 1979 to 1981. Maureen played agony aunt Jane Lucas, who – despite enjoying success on a radio show – had a disastrous personal life.3 Maureen’s late husband Jack Rosenthal was a playwright, who also wrote 129 episodes of Corrie. They married in…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019BEAUTY BOXSanctuary Spa Indulgence BoxWorth double the price, this ‘Indulgence Box’ contains some of the brand’s most beloved treats, such as the new Liquid Gold Bath Elixir.Lush Petal Power Gift SetBrighten up your mum’s day with this gift set full of flowery bath bombs and bubble bars, for a botanical bath treat.Floral Street The Discovery SetTreat mums to a mini-scent wardrobe – normally worth £24 – with this set containing eight floral perfumes, such as London Poppy and Wonderland Peony.Yardley London Nourishing Hand Cream Duo Gift SetHard-working mums deserve pampering, so lavish them in these luxe hand creams, with skin-caring floral extracts and shea butter.STYLED BY RACHEL COPE, MAIN PHOTO: BACKGRID…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019What do you mean you’re NOT watching...IT’S A BRAVE MOVE TO HAVE an almost-ungoogleable title (search ‘Channel 4 Home’ and see if it assumes you’re looking for Grand Designs), but internet issues aside, we’ve really warmed to this quietly brilliant sitcom about a family from Dorking returning from France to find a Syrian refugee in the boot of their car. Comedy stalwarts Rufus Jones (also the writer) and Rebekah Staton are great as Peter and Katy, who let Sami into their (well, Katy’s) home and awkwardly try to do right by him – but the real find is Youssef Kerkour as Sami, whose warmth and comic timing are just masterful.…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Telly TATTLECRISIS MODENew Sky One drama COBRA will follow a fictional government in the midst of a national crisis. Robert Carlyle will star as the PM, with Victoria Hamilton as his chief of staff.CLASS ACTTamsin Greig and Philip Glenister are to star in Belgravia, the new drama from Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes. The series, – which also stars Alice Eve and Harriet Walter – examines secrets and dishonour in 19th-century London’s high society…SINGLE FILEApplications are open for ITV2’s new reality show Singletown. In the series, five couples will press pause on their relationships and live the single life for the summer – and decide if they really want to stick together. To apply, visit itv.com/beontv…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019WHO’S WHO?CASUALTYConnie Beauchamp.......... Amanda MealingGemma Dean...................... Rebecca RyanIain Dean..................... Michael StevensonLisa ‘Duffy’ Duffin................ Cathy ShiptonCharlie Fairhead.............. Derek ThompsonNoel Garcia.......................... Tony MarshallElle Gardner.......................... Jaye GriffithsEthan Hardy.................... George RainsfordDavid Hide................................ Jason DurrArchie Hudson..................... Genesis LyneaJan Jenning............................... Di BotcherDylan Keogh........................... William BeckMarty Kirkby................ Shaheen JafargholiJade Lovell.......................... Gabriella LeonJacob Masters....................... Charles VennRash Masum........................... Neet MohanRobyn Miller................ Amanda HendersonWill Noble................................. Jack NolanRuby Sparks.............................. Maddy HillCORONATION STREETDev Alahan........................ Jimmi HarkishinIzzy Armstrong............... Cherylee HoustonAmy Barlow.......................... Elle MulvaneyKen Barlow......................... William RoachePeter Barlow....................... Chris GascoyneSimon Barlow.............................. Alex BainLeanne Battersby................... Jane DansonToyah Battersby.................... Georgia TaylorEmma Brooker............... Alexandra MardellChesney Brown.......................... Sam AstonClaudia Colby.......................... Rula LenskaMary Cole.................................. Patti ClareCarla Connor............................. Alison KingJenny Connor............... Sally Ann MatthewsJohnny Connor.................. Richard HawleyKate Connor........................... Faye BrookesMaria Connor............. Samia LongchambonMichelle Connor........................ Kym MarshRyan Connor........................ Ryan PrescottRoy Cropper.......................... David NeilsonTyrone Dobbs........................... Alan HalsallPaul Foreman............................... Peter AshAbi Franklin........................... Sally CarmanSeb…6 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Next week...EASTENDERSMel s in hellLIFE WITHOUT HUNTER IS HITTING HER HARD…With her beloved boy stuck behind bars, fragile Mel’s already buckling under the pressure – however, as Hunter’s plea hearing approaches next week, she’s determined to help him. Seeing as she’s the only one in Walford on his side, though, pleading his case will be no easy task. So how will Mel cope while Hunter gets ready to be questioned all over again?EMMERDALERhona’s unhappy birthdayShe’s already trying to deal with the consequences of life-changing surgery – but when birthday girl Rhona is called out on an emergency vet job in the middle of her special day next week, another disaster is set to strike…CORRIECut and run?Nick needs David’s help in cutting canny blackmailer Natalie out of the barber shop next week…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019BULLSEYE!In the midst of the factory disaster, the hullabaloo at Home Farm and whatever’s supposed to be happening in Walford at the moment, we want to take this opportunity to praise the performance of Emmerdale’s Zoe Henry, as Rhona faces up to her early menopause. It’s a mature and subtle story, told with dignity and heart, and it’s one that’s well worth exploring.The Underworld collapse wasn’t the only disaster on Coronation Street this week. There was also Michelle’s outfit at the wedding.We’re getting quite obsessed with Lacey Turner’s giant all-weather, indoor/ outdoor, pregnancy-hiding yeti coat.Walford teen Louise Mitchell has zero time to listen to any of your nonsense.As one, the nation shouted: “Stop calling Kate’s voicemail and dial 999, you idiot!”Oh, just get down to it, guys!Death by poisoned lasagne…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019THE BLAME GAMESEB Given the scale of the devastation, it seems that whoever was up on the roof that night knew what they were doing – and we know they went equipped with the tools for the job. So, we think the finger points to hot-headed builder Seb. “I’m going to teach Gary and his dodgy workers a lesson!” he vowed, having been humiliated by his former boss. He also looked very guilty when he discovered his own mum, Abi, was almost killed.NICK If Seb has the means, then Nick most certainly has the clearest motive. We know that he considered an insurance claim on the factory to be his only means of paying off his blackmailer, Natalie. And while we’ve seen a dark side to Nick recently – and have no…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019TAKE TWO?As he braces himself for the prospect of walking down the aisle with Kerry a second time, has Dan forgotten the disaster that was his and Kerry’s first wedding?The couple got hitched back in 2014, in a Big Fat Gypsy- style wedding – the likes of which the village had never seen. But it was in the midst of this outrageous ceremony that Kerry was unveiled as being a bigamist, when her other husband Kev arrived and it all kicked off in the middle of the Woolpack! So as Dan chooses the very same location for his latest proposal, here’s hoping Kerry’s reaction isn’t quite as humiliating as that unforgettable moment……1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019MISERY for SineadSinister school teacher Laurie unleashes his fury on wife Sinead this week, after learning she kissed Sami!Viewers have already caught glimpses of Laurie’s dark side, following a night of passion that resulted in Sinead being covered in bruises. What he does next, however, is set to leave Hollyoaks fans stunned, as he crosses a line that he can never come back from…“What happens this week is a game-changer,” reckons actress Steph Davis, who plays Sinead. “Sinead is in complete denial. She’s trying to make excuses for Laurie – she doesn’t want to think that the man she loves could do something like this.”We’ve witnessed Laurie’s manipulation of his wife get more and more twisted over the past few months. And this week, poor Sinead is driven insane with jealously, after…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019CASH CRISIS HITS ALBERT SQUARE!The BBC’s ambitious plans for a fancy new EastEnders set have been slammed by parliament, after it was revealed that the renovation is £27million over budget!The project – codenamed ‘E20’ after Walford’s postcode – includes a complete rebuild of EastEnders’ iconic set, as well as an extension of production facilities at the soap’s home in Hertfordshire. But MPs are furious that the whole thing is costing way more than the £59.7million initially budgeted, and will take an extra five years to complete. One of the reasons for the delay was that some negotiations took six months longer than planned, partly because of discussions about what bricks to use for the set!The overspend is set to come at “significant extra cost to licence-fee payers,” according to the Public Accounts Committee –…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Your soap story Wish list!“There’s been a factory in Corrie for decades – but now it’s gone, perhaps it’s time for a change? Maybe the site could be redeveloped as a college, to bring a lot of new young blood to the Street? Adult classes too, of course!”…suggests reader Henry“Emmerdale looked beautiful on Moira’s farm this week. Now Kim has her horses, can we see more countryside again? The show seems shy of it, but Countryfile is a huge hit on the BBC.”…muses reader Mary from Lytham St Annes“I think Kush should admit the truth of his feelings for Big Mo, and give in to them. Never mind Bex – what he needs is a REAL woman.”…insists reader Joe from London“Home and Away’s Brody is such a love rat! Ziggy and Simone should team…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Tim’s deadly health scare!Tim faces a potentially fatal situation this week, as he starts to experience pains in his chest, before being rushed to hospital!Tim’s health scare occurs shortly after he begins to feel unwell, and he initially puts the discomfort down to indigestion. He takes some tablets to try to alleviate the pain in his chest, but when Gina calls in at the cab office en route to leaving the Street, she’s appalled at the state in which she finds him…“Gina can see straight away that this is rather more serious than simply a grumbly tum after a big lunch,” reports our Coronation Street insider. “Tim is sweating profusely, he appears dizzy and disoriented, and he’s obviously short of breath too. He’s clearly in no fit state to be working.”“Gina can see…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Under attack!There’s a nasty shock for poor vicar Harriet this week – when a hooded figure jumps out and attacks her!Harriet is stunned by the violent act because there’s nothing to explain why the mystery assailant targets her. She’s merely in the village attending to regular parish duties when the incident happens, and it leaves her shaken. However, Harriet is determined to discover who lashed out at her and why.Given her past role as an undercover policewoman, Harriet has a tricky history with some very dodgy people. It’s her association with criminals that brought her and Dawn together, and the fallout was horrendous. Now, she and Dawn have put their troubles behind them and have rebuilt their relationship – but that’s not the case with all the people Harriet crossed. In…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Gary proposes – as Kyle returns!There’s a huge surprise in store for Amy this week, as Gary asks her to marry him – just at the moment her ex Kyle makes a shock return!It’s complicated enough that Amy is now dating Gary, having been in a relationship with his son Kyle a few years back. With Kyle living in Germany, things were rosy – but his return to Erinsborough could change everything…“It’s the worst possible moment that Kyle could walk in!” groans Zoe Cramond, who plays Amy. “It couldn’t be more awkward or weird – the timing is just terrible! Gary and Amy are in a very good place. They’ve sorted through a lot of stuff, and are finally experiencing some calm in their lives – well, until now!”“This whole situation is a minefield for…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Gemma gagged!Chesney arrives home to a shocking scene this week – a trail of blood that leads to bound and gagged Gemma!He and Gem have been through a lot of scrapes in their time, but this is more serious than anything Ches has seen before. He knows his girlfriend has a past of fraternising with dodgy characters such as drug dealers and thieves, yet he didn’t expect something like this to happen to her!Ches knows he needs to call the police immediately, while Gemma looks terrified and is desperate to be freed from her bonds – as she wants to explain to him how she’s ended up in this situation.It’s only been a few short weeks since they became an official couple, and Chesney has fallen head over heels for Gemma…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Michelle vs Robert!Michelle loses it with Robert this week – as he returns to the Bistro and makes big changes…Although he initially said he’d take a break from their business, Robert tells Michelle he’s going nowhere. In fact, he intends to take more control of staffing and, having sacked Ryan for spying on his phone calls, Robert introduces the fella’s replacement.He’s made an agreement with Billy that the restaurant will hire young offenders, to help them get back on their feet and gain experience in the workplace. His first hire is Chloe, a young girl who Billy has brought in to start her first shift. Chloe soon meets Michelle, and Robert explains that she’s taking over Ryan’s role – and that his estranged wife had better get used to the fact that…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Maxine goes missing!Damon accompanies Maxine to a medical appointment this week – however, he’s stunned when she disappears!After running test after test, Misbah recently gave Maxine the all-clear. But having collapsed outside the Dog, Maxine returns for a fresh diagnosis. Damon goes to the hospital with Maxine for moral support, yet while doctors are trying to get to the bottom of her illness, Maxine vanishes!Is Maxine simply worried about the outcome of their investigations? Or is there something else on her mind?…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019SOAPBOXNIGHTINGALE NIGHTMAREI was so relieved that Hollyoaks’ Breda didn’t bump off James in the end – that would have been such a terrible loss to the village. I’m really loving his new family set-up with Harry, Romeo and Juliet, and I’m glad we’ll get to see him trying to be a proper dad to Romeo now.Becca, BirminghamTIME TO MOVE ONIt’s about time EastEnders’ Sonia got her act together and found a home for her and Bex, so she can give her all to her daughter as she goes through her A Levels. Bex is really struggling, and it just seems nobody is giving her the back-up and love she needs. Living in a chaotic household with Stuart, with his really creepy ways, is certainly not helping. Instead of Martin flying…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Recipes for the sofa!Cheese and Roast Beef SlidersPrepare for a love affair, as these Cheese and Roast Beef Sliders win your heart! The treats are easy to make and just as easy to eat – if only life in the Dales or Albert Square was this simple…200g roast beef, thinly sliced12 mini seeded bread buns50g wholegrain mustard (optional)2 sprigs of dill, chopped150g Primula Cheese ‘n’ Chives1 Preheat the oven to 190°C/Gas mark 5.2 Slice the bread buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.3 Add the mustard and dill evenly over the bread buns.4 Place the roast beef on each bun bottom.5 Squeeze Primula Cheese ‘n’ Chives over the beef.6 Add the top half of the bread buns.7 Wrap in foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019“Billy may be a vicar, but he does love a bad boy!”The chemistry between vicar Billy and ex-con Paul has been electric ever since their surprise snog earlier this year. So, we’ve been rooting for the unlikely couple to sort themselves out and get together. It’s not just us and the viewers who are shipping Billy and Paul either, as keen matchmaker Rita is also eager to make this romance happen. That’s why she decides to play fairy godmother this week to try to make the two blokes see sense.“It’s really cute!” laughs Daniel Brocklebank, who plays Billy. “Rita’s efforts certainly get Billy and Paul to spend some time together. I love working with Barbara Knox, she has such a fantastic twinkle in her eye.”Despite their attraction, Billy called time on things with Paul when he discovered that Gemma’s twin brother…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019Faking IT!Playing a doctor on screen can be tricky, as it’s not just the lines you have to learn – it’s all the complicated medical procedures that go with them! And Jack tells us that sometimes the special effects used on Casualty can be a little too realistic…“I was shooting a scene earlier where somebody had a piece of metal sticking out of them,” he winces. “You never get used to that! Some of the injuries can be pretty intense. And sometimes, when you’re filming with fake blood, you can end up with the instrument you’re using stuck to your hand!“We have medical advisers on set at all times, though, and they’re fantastic,” adds Jack. “I’ll sit down for ages and really hammer the medical jargon into my head, only to…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019JAN PEARSONAs The Mill’s receptionist, Karen is the GP surgery’s first line of defence. But there’s nothing defensive about Jan, as she tackles your questions…“Can you still remember your first day at Doctors?”I certainly can! I sent my boyfriend a text saying, “What have I done?” I’d been working on another job in Vienna until the day before, and I couldn’t start when they needed me to. So I had to catch up on everything I’d missed on my first day – it was a real baptism of fire. But it got a lot better after that…“Would you prefer Valerie or Karen as a receptionist at your GP surgery?”“Who’s been your most memorable co-star?”I’ve worked with Roy Hudd three times, and he’s utterly delightful – always a joy to work with,…4 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019STAR Watch!Hol lot of victory!HOLLYOAKS WINS BIG AT THE RTAS…It was a mighty win at the Royal Television Awards (RTA) for Hollyoaks, as it beat rivals Corrie and Casualty to win the prize for Best Soap and Continuing Drama for the first time ever! Making the most of their victory, the cast members attending the event at London’s Grosvenor House captured their glorious win by posing proudly with their award. Judges were blown away by the soap’s recent storylines, including the grooming of Ollie Morgan ( Aedan Duckworth), and cast members including Sarah Jayne Dunn (Mandy), Rachel Adedeji (Lisa) and Lysette Anthony (Marnie) were joined by boss Bryan Kirkwood, who said, “We tell the boldest stories that are happening to our audience right now. The footballer abuse story has been one…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019THE ENEMY WITHIN“THESE TWO ARE BY FAR OUR MOST DANGEROUS ADVERSARIES YET” MARTINWe’ve had a two-year wait between series of Line Of Duty – possibly because writer and creator Jed Mercurio was off working on some low-profile side project called Bodyguard or something – but Inside TV is happy to confirm that AC-12 is back this Sunday, as an investigation into a criminal gang led by John Corbett (Stephen Graham) and Lisa McQueen (Rochenda Sandall) looks like it might hold a new clue to the identity of ‘H’ – the corrupt cop at the top…“We are people of interest to AC-12 – and that’s really all I can say!” teases Rochenda. “Lisa is co-leading a massive organised crime group that is very close to, if not in line with, the police corruption.”“AC-12’s…3 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019DOWN TO EARTHIn the 50 years since man first walked on the moon, the human race has doubled in numbers – yet the planet that we live on is the same size. With this in mind, Netflix’s new natural history series Our Planet doesn’t just show us the myriad miraculous species we share the Earth with, it also tells us what we need to do to ensure they – and we – survive and thrive. We spoke to the narrator of the show, Sir David Attenborough, to find out a little more…There’s a spectacular shot of an iceberg crumbling in episode one – what was your reaction to seeing that?Astonishment – from a number of points of view: Not just that it’s happening, but also that we managed to film it! If…2 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019JOLLY RANCHERS“It’s like watching a Western, but with Louie Spence and Bobby Norris in it!” enthuses presenter Stephen Bailey, as Inside TV chats to him about Celebs On The Ranch, and that’s enough to get us on board. Other stars taking part include Jenny Powell, Love Island’s Eyal Booker and The Wanted’s Siva Kaneswaran. And Stephen thinks the celeb cast acquitted themselves well…“They surprised me – all of them gave it 100 per cent,” he shares. “This is a proper working ranch, so they had to muck in or they were gone. I don’t think any of them really expected what it would be like. Even I didn’t anticipate it to be quite like it was, and I was briefed before I arrived!”Another aspect which caught Steven out was the Arizona…1 min
Inside Soap UK|13 - 2019THE EX FILES!GARETH’S HOSPITAL DASHEx-Corrie star Gareth Berliner (who played Cormac ‘Macca’ Hibbs from 2014 to 2019) had a health scare recently, when he was rushed to hospital with sepsis. The star, who has had Crohn’s Disease for the past 30 years, took to Instagram to explain what had happened. “I was brought into hospital by ambulance about 1am, owing to some amount of sepsis, with terrible rigors, while hooked up and infusing saline,” he said. “It wasn’t even pumping that fast. Vomiting and upset gut, and a temp of 39.” The actor seemed happy enough to have been put in isolation, though (“I have a room to myself!”), and we wish him a speedy recovery.SHANE WRITES SONGS!Former Walford resident Shane Richie (Alfie Moon) is teaming up with composer and producer Tim…1 min
