Table of contents for 12 - 2016 in Inside Soap UK

While I know in my heart that my favourite soaps are stories made up by writers and performed by actors (and that the Beales and Dingles and Connors and the rest don’t really all live inside my television set), sometimes I do confuse fact and fiction. To my shame, there are occasions when I have expected a soap star to be, in real life, just like the character they play on TV. I once involuntarily yelped in fear when I opened the door at an awards bash to find Archie Mitchell. Of course, it’s really a tribute to the actor’s skill in creating such a believable character, isn’t it? You’ll probably experience a similar confusion when you read our chat (on p54) with Corrie star Connor McIntyre, who plays the…

“HOLLY DOESN’T LIKE CAIN - BUT SHE’S NEVER GIVEN HIM A CHANCE” This week, Holly learns the hard way that Charity is not to be trusted – but fortunately, her mum Moira is on hand to pick up the pieces. Desperate for cash to pay off her dodgy ex-boyfriend – and drug dealer – Dean, Holly falls hook, line and sinker for one of Charity’s crooked schemes. But luckily for Holly, Moira has a solution to her problems – whether she likes it or not! “Holly is being very naive in getting involved with Charity – it’s a stupid thing to do,” sighs Natalie J Robb, who plays Moira. “Charity double-crosses her by setting her up to steal from the Woolpack – then tells Moira about it! So Moira’s ready…

AS TRACY DOES HER WORST, KATE THINKS IT’S THE BEST… “People tell me they absolutely love it when Tracy’s being a bitch!” chuckles the actress. “She’s capable of anything – she’s been to prison for murder, after all! – but when I bump into people, they’ve always been really nice to me. “For me, the ultimate soap bitch would have to be Alexis Colby from Dynasty. Joan Collins played that character, and funnily enough she starred in a film called The Bitch, too!”…

All hell is set to break loose in Erinsborough, as a massive explosion rips through Lassiters hotel! Show bosses have warned that three people will bite the dust, two of whom are regular characters… “This may well be the biggest week of Neighbours ever!” exclaims executive producer Jason Herbison. “Every episode sees new stories unfold, including shock returns, mysterious strangers, and jeopardy for our beloved residents. By the time the dust settles, the death toll will be up to three. Who won’t make it out alive?” Two mystery men will enter the boiler room of the hotel complex, setting off a disastrous chain of events that will change Ramsay Street forever. Both fan favourites and guests will be left fighting for their lives as they become trapped in the blast…

Niamh is caught between new boyfriend Ben and his ex Sarah this week, after finding a treatment that could help the pair’s poorly son, Harry. Unfortunately, the special procedure is only available in Switzerland – and Dr Richmond refuses to support Ben’s application for it. Niamh manages to find a similar case in Belarus, and suggests to Ben that he ought to talk about it with Sarah. However, Niamh realises the woman knows nothing about the treatment – or that Niamh is Ben’s new girlfriend! So when Sarah refuses to even consider Harry travelling abroad, will Niamh be forced to give Ben some space? Also this week… Heston tries to warn Jimmi about practice manager Anthony.…

ADAM played by Jimmy Essex “Adam is the eldest of the brothers, so he has a bit of a hold over his siblings,” explains Maxim. “He’s slightly more serious than Liam and Jesse, but that doesn’t mean they’re afraid to call him out when they think he’s wrong.” However, his siblings may fail to realise that Adam is the only one old enough to remember the devastating impact Fraser Black had on their clan. As a result, he’s determined to shield his brothers from the toxic influence of the Black family tree… JESSE played by Luke Jerdy Unlike Liam, youngest brother Jesse is a hopeless romantic who falls in love at the drop of a hat! Unfortunately, his enthusiasm means that he’s not quite as successful…

Did you know you’d be back in Coronation Street after your first stretch? …asks Marian from Swansea No, I didn’t – but soap law demands that villains always get their comeuppance in the end, so I wasn’t completely shocked to get the call. The writers have had the time to really flesh Phelan out and create a three-dimensional character who’s a bit of a tricky proposition. I’m delighted to be here and I’m having even more fun this time round! Phelan is definitely a wrong’un! But who’s your favourite screen villain? …asks Drew, via email My favourite villain of all time has to be The Child Catcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He had the earliest impact on me and he was a real baddy. You…

ROUGH JUSTICE Lesley Sharp, Robert Glenister and Indira Varma will star in new eight-part drama Paranoid for ITV. The thriller follows the case of a murdered GP - an investigation with dark and unexpected turns. TASKS AT HAND Greg Davies and Alex Horne have confirmed the contestants for series two of Dave comedy show Taskmaster. Jon Richardson, Richard Osman, Katherine Ryan, Joe Wilkinson and Doc Brown will be facing the next round of tasks. BRAND LOYALTY Jo Brand is to star in new comedy Going Forward for BBC4. She’ll reprise her Bafta award-winning role as nurse Kim Wilde from Getting On, in her new role as a care assistant in the community. Look out for the show later this year.…

SOAP SUPERHEROES! Eva and Billy in Corrie have made a really great team while trying to get to the bottom of the Marta mystery. I’d love to see them solve more crimes around Weatherfield together. God help Kylie and David if they ever decided to look into Callum’s disappearance! Brianna, London They’re the Batman and Robin of Weatherfield! DADDY DEAREST I can’t believe that Mrs St Claire is John Paul’s dad in Hollyoaks! I did not see that one coming – what a brilliant twist. I know Mrs S promised Myra that she wouldn’t tell John Paul the truth, but it’s bound to come out sooner rather than later. It is Hollyoaks, after all! Keith, via email Imagine how shocked JP will be when he finds out… LOFTY AMBITIONS I…

As Moira’s arch-rival Charity tries to get her claws into Holly, Moira is given another reason to despise her. But Natalie claims her ballsy alter ego won’t be messed with… “At the moment, Moira feels solid enough in her marriage to Cain to give as good as she gets when it comes to Charity,” insists the actress. “Moira’s not happy about her being back in the village, though – she’s like a bad smell or an irritating spot that’s always there! “She’ll always be wary of Charity, because of the history she shares with Cain – but if any cracks were to appear further down the line, then Moira is ready to sort them!”…

“IT’S TIME FOR NANCY TO TAKE A BREAK FROM HER FAMILY - AND ME FROM EASTENDERS” The Carter family is set to wave goodbye to another popular figure, following the news that star Maddy Hill has quit the role of Nancy. But the big question is whether Mick and Linda’s headstrong daughter will be leaving the Square with her ex Tamwar, given that actor Himesh Patel has also chosen to bid farewell to Walford… “It was time for Nancy to take a break from her family, and me from EastEnders after a wonderful time working on the show,” explains Maddy, who has been playing Nancy for just over two years. “I was surrounded by a terrific team both on and off camera, and I shall miss seeing them all on…

Our friends over at Emmerdale invited Inside Soap to the show’s set recently, where new series producer Iain Macleod gave us a sneak peek at all the exciting plots that are set to unfold over the course of the year. So buckle up, ladies and gents, as it’s going to be a bumpy ride… CHRISSIE VS CHARITY! There’s a new super-bitch poised to challenge Charity for her crown as the village’s chief vixen! Iain has tipped Robert’s wronged ex Chrissie as the next wicked witch to watch out for… “I think we’ve got a big bitch in the waiting in the form of Chrissie up at Home Farm,” grins the show’s head honcho. “We’ve put her through the mill with the helicopter…

Bernice gets a lot more than she bargained for this week, when she heads into the Home Farm office on an errand – to find Andy half-naked and hiding under Chrissie’s desk! It doesn’t take a genius to work out what the saucy pair have been up to, and blushing Bernice is mortified as Chrissie and Andy rearrange what’s left of their clothing before trying to explain themselves. But given that Bernice and Andy were once a couple – and that Bernice nearly abandoned husband Lawrence at the altar for the groundskeeper – how is she going to feel knowing that he and her new daughter-in-law have been enjoying secret trysts right under her nose? Prior to being interrupted in such humiliating fashion, Chrissie and Andy had got right into…

FAIR CITY Renee is concerned about Ellie’s behaviour this week, and realises it’s as a result of Heather’s absence. But when Ellie discovers a letter from the hospital, she’s determined to visit her mum. Elsewhere, Ama tells Farrah to go for it with Emmet, but the women teach him a lesson when he says he wants them both! Also, Charlotte seeks cash from Decco to leave Oisin alone. RIVER CITY Caitlin and Drew worry that they’re about to be abandoned when Jenny gets a uni place this week, and Caitlin catches Drew harming himself! With his secret out, Caitlin tells Drew who his dad is. Will this help? Meanwhile, Malcolm is taken to hospital with pneumonia, which leads to a surprise arrival… Also, Angus takes part in a paid sleep-deprivation…

“WILL GIVES MICHELLE LOTS OF ATTENTION – SHE ENJOYS IT!” Coronation Street’s Steve and Michelle are just about as rock solid as the cobbles themselves. They’ve seen some good times and bad – and survived the odd disaster here and there! However, we’ve been warned that the arrival of Michelle’s childhood sweetheart, Will, will shake the McDonald marriage to its foundations. Is Steve going to regret swanning off to Spain and neglecting his missus for months on end? Actress Kym Marsh, who plays Michelle, reckons so… “He’s been gone six months – and a girl has needs!” jokes the star, as we join her for a cuppa on the set of Nick’s Bistro at the soap’s studios in Manchester. “Michelle was there by Steve’s side throughout his depression, and now…

David’s health is in the spotlight on screen – but within the Wolfenden household, it’s Matthew’s newborn son Bowie who has been suffering. The baby boy, born to Matthew and his co-star Charley Webb (Debbie Dingle) in December, was very sick during his first weeks, causing his parents sleepless nights that were even worse than they’d been expecting. “Bowie was bringing up all of his feed,” explains Charley. “It didn’t seem normal – it was like extreme reflux. He was projectile vomiting. He lost so much weight after he was born, which was the biggest worry. It was horrible – I’ve never been more stressed or worried in my life.”…

“VIEWERS ARE BEGINNING TO SEE WHERE MERCEDES IS COMING FROM” Making a big impact on a show like Casualty is no mean feat. After all, you’re surrounded by the excellent regular cast, and you’ve got to make your character count in a short space of time. However, it helps to stand out when your screen alter ego does something so shocking that it would rock the show’s fan base to its core. That’s the reason why former pop star Hannah Spearritt has been getting plenty of attention as newcomer Mercedes… “Mercedes did pick the worst person to beat up when she mugged Noel,” says Hannah, who joins Inside Soap for a gossip. “He’s the sweetest guy. But she also did over Big Mac, who has the biggest heart. So she’s…

JACK&VERA DUCKWORTH Who’s the boss? Pot man Jack had always dreamed of owning a pub – it was literally free beer on tap – and his fantasy came true when he and wife Vera became Rovers licensees after a windfall in 1995. Bar style Fun-loving Jack and Vera ran the pub in their warm-hearted, playful style. Their squabbling provided the entertainment, and Vera was delighted to chit-chat with her customers. Where did it all go wrong? If only the Duckworths had been as diligent with the books as they were with the punters! By failing to keep enough money for tax, they ended up in such a mess that the only option was to sell up. It broke both their hearts. Time, please The Duckworths ran the Rovers for three…

VERITY’S BIG REVEAL Former Emmerdale star Verity Rushworth – who played tragic Donna Windsor – is expecting her first child with husband Dominic Shaw. The 30-year-old actress has had to pull out of a touring stage production of Breakfast At Tiffany’s – her role being taken by Inbetweeners star Emily Atack. MICE TO SEE YOU! Now we know why Jorgie Porter (Theresa) left Hollyoaks village so quickly – she had a plane to catch! The star was pictured cuddling up to Mickey Mouse at Disneyland Paris – while revealing the reason she left Hollyoaks after almost eight years. “I couldn’t go through life thinking I’d never tried anything else,” she said. “I want to look back and say, ‘I was scared, but look what I scared myself into doing’.” ACTION…

TISHAMERRY& ERIKAHEYNATZ CORRIE’S STEPH & HOME AND AWAY’S CHARLOTTE There’s nothing like yellow to add a ray of sunshine to your wardrobe, so zing into spring like Tisha and Erika with one of these scene-stealers… Lace is big news for spring, so get ahead of the trend with Very’s colour-pop lace top. New Look is on an accessories roll, so pick up this snakeskin bag with pom-pom detailing. Dare to wear this cut-out midi dress and ensure all eyes are on you! Make your pins stand out with this canary-yellow wrap midi skirt from River Island. Sumptuous suede is the fabric to be seen in, so snap up these little beauties from New Look.…

IT’S BEEN A LITTLE BITTERSWEET watching the current run of Fresh Meat and knowing it’s the last one, but seeing the show go out on fine form has made it all worthwhile. We’ve grown extremely fond of the Manchester Medlock gang, and watching them brace themselves for life after uni has been quite emotional: in particular seeing Josie - the only one who still has a year to go - trying to find new friends. This week’s episode is the very last one, and their results are in - but more important is the alternative graduation ball they’ve been planning……

“I HAD A PINK TINGE TO MY HAIR FROM THE KETCHUP - IT TOOK THREE SHOWERS TO GET IT OUT!” Phillip Schofield talks being assaulted with condiments on You’re Back In The Room “IT WAS QUITE AN EFFORT, BECAUSE I’M GOING ‘WHY DOESN’T SHE JUST TELL THEM ALL TO GET LOST?’” Arabella Weir on playing the eternally patient Beth in Two Doors Down “I GET PEOPLE COMING UP TO ME SAYING, ‘IF I WAS ON THAT ISLAND, I WOULD BE ABLE TO SURVIVE’.” Lots of viewers reckon they have what it takes for The Island, according to adventurer Bear Grylls “I DON’T WANT TO ENFORCE IT OR PUSH IT DOWN THEIR THROATS. ‘MOTHER’S ON THE TELEVISION AGAIN!’” Boomers star Stephanie Beacham watches the show with her family - but only…

The nation breathed a sigh of relief when courageous mum Linda brought baby Ollie back to life after he stopped breathing in EastEnders . But could the terrible situation have been avoided completely? My heart was in my mouth when Linda found Ollie lying motionless in his cot. Speaking as a mum myself, I can totally understand how that must have felt. Actress Kellie Bright’s reaction was spot on, and she deserves every accolade going. Shauna, via email Knowing how protective Mick and Linda are of their kids, I don’t believe for a second that they wouldn’t have taken Ollie to hospital to get checked out straight after the accident. And, even though they weren’t there when it happened, it used to be Whitney’s job to take care of…

ARIES 21 MARCH - 20 APRIL  An interesting debate will be sparked between your friends this week. You’re not always the loudest in the group, but that doesn’t mean you can’t voice your opinion. Just try to stay calm when doing so! TAURUS 21 APRIL - 21 MAY  This week is a time for teamwork. You might enjoy working alone, but the task ahead requires a collaborative effort. You can still take the lead, but remember to listen to the input of others! GEMINI 22 MAY - 21 JUNE  You conquered winter, and now spring is with us you’ve already got your eye on summer! This week you’ll start putting plans in place to make the most of the sun - you could even book a trip abroad. CANCER 22…

Returning EastEnders star Ross Kemp – who is due to reprise the role of hard man Grant Mitchell – has seen a lot of scary sights while filming in some of the world’s most dangerous places. But with his Albert Square comeback looming, the actor admits that he’s absolutely bricking it at just the thought of playing Grant again… “I’ve had sniper rounds go through the wall behind me, and I’m quite cool under fire,” admits Ross, who shadowed the Army in Afghanistan. “I’m good at dealing with things like that – but I’m wetting myself at the thought of going back to EastEnders!” When it was announced that Ross would be returning to the show for his screen mother Barbara Windsor’s (Peggy) emotional exit, the…

While the Carters go to war on screen, the actors who play them couldn’t be closer. And they’ll be present and correct to see leading man Danny Dyer (Mick) get hitched… “I’m inviting all my Carter clan as I love them dearly,” gushes the star, who is set to tie the knot this summer with long-term partner Joanne Mas. “I really don’t want the day to be anything like Mick and Linda’s, though. I don’t want to be jumping in any lakes or wearing a pink dressing gown!”…

Billie goes on trial this week, accused of lighting the fire that gutted Leah’s house – but we all know that she didn’t do it! As Billie heads to court and takes the stand, she once again reiterates her innocence. However, while her brother Ash is standing by her and believes she’s telling the truth, will the judge see it that way? “Billie feels like she has her back against the wall,” explains Tessa de Josselin, who plays her. “She knows she’s been set up, but she’s at a loss because she doesn’t know who really did start the fire.” Of course, viewers know full well that it was troubled teen Hunter who lit the blaze. He’s struggling with his guilt as Billie stands accused, so he’s alarmed when Andy…

Paul puts his latest devious scheme into action this week, as he plots to wreak havoc on Lassiters! The businessman is left fuming after Robinsons loses its liquor licence, forcing the council to move the upcoming Citizen Of The Year ceremony to Lassiters instead. And when his bitter rival Julie Quill can’t help but gloat about Paul’s misfortune, the furious fella vows to get his revenge. After Paul takes his frustrations out on housemate Terese, he’s left further upset when she puts him in his place, and tells him not to come home until he’s cleared his head and sorted out his priorities. However, Paul’s not about to give up, so meets with an old associate, Cecilia – and asks her to make sure the Citizen Of The Year ceremony…

“LIAM ALWAYS HAS A SMILE – BUT HE ALSO HAS A DARK SIDE…” Hollyoaks is famous for having the sexiest cast in soapland, and it’s a pretty big cast at that – but as far as we’re concerned, you can never have too much of a good thing. Thankfully, the show’s bosses feel the same way, so they’ve decided to give us three gorgeous new brothers to feast our eyes on! The trio are being billed as the ‘hot hunks’ of the village, and this week we meet the first brother, Liam Donovan. But Maxim Baldry, who plays the stud, clearly didn’t get the memo… “Really, we’re all hunks?” laughs the star. “Well, in that case, it’s great being one of the new hunks of Hollyoaks! I’m definitely going to…

There was a bit of the old razzledazzle at the Chicago after-party, as a trio of Albert Square favourites reunited to celebrate former EastEnder John Partridge’s (Christian Clarke) role in the musical revival. Joining the star – who plays corrupt Chicago lawyer Billy Flynn – was his long-time friend and one-time co-star Laurie Brett, who plays his sister Jane in the soap, as well as former Walford actress Tamzin Outhwaite (Mel Owen). Ian Beale would no doubt be alarmed to see two of his wives having such a good time together out on the town up west! Also starring...…

Indulge yourself in a gourmet shower experience with Palmolive’s rich and creamy body wash with cocoa extract – it leaves skin deliciously scented. Hop into the bath and soak with Lush’s Golden Egg. It’s filled with moisturising oils that will leave you with skin smoother than caramel. A lipstick that comfortably coats lips in bursts of intense and high impact colour, and leaves you with the taste of chocolate on your lips all day long. Yum! Treat your nails to a sensuous manicure with Essie’s rich and delicious chocolate-brown nail polish. A tasty pick ’n’mix of matte and shimmer shades for your eyes. There’s no doubt you’ll want to try every chocolate in the box!…

1 SATURDAY DVD BRIDGE OF SPIES This dramatic thriller sees Brooklyn-based lawyer James Donovan (Tom Hanks) thrust into the centre of the Cold War, as a CIA operative sends him on a near-impossible mission to negotiate the release of a captured US pilot. Directed by Steven Spielberg. WIN! For the chance to win a copy, tell us who plays Tom in Hollyoaks: A) Ross Adams, B) Ellis Hollins, or C) Greg Wood. Text ISPRIZE1, a space, then A, B, or C and your name & address to 87080 (50p). Or see below for postal entries. 2 EASTER SUNDAY DVD BEOWULF: RETURN TO THE SHIELDLANDS Featuring an ensemble of truly fascinating characters, this epic drama follows Beowulf as he strives to be a man as well as a hero,…

IN THE FAMILY One of the horrible kids who threatened Chesney in Corrie recently looked really like Kelvin Fletcher, aka Andy in Emmerdale. Could it be his little brother, perhaps? Mike, via email Well spotted, Mike! The actor in question was in fact Brayden Fletcher – and Kelvin took to Twitter to say how proud he is of his little bro. Aw! PHIL IN THE GAPS? When EastEnders’ Phil bumped into that lady Lorna at the group for alcoholics, it was clear that they had some kind of history, but it was never explained on screen. What happened between them? Bev, via email Phil first met Lorna at an alcoholics’ support group years ago, and the two of them had an affair. When Phil ditched Lorna, she spilled the beans…

BULLSEYE! “My bounty is boundless as the sea. My love is as deep. The more I give to thee, the more I have. For both are infinite,” declared Jack to Ronnie, as he finally won her over with a passage from Romeo And Juliet. Quite lovely, but we all know how that ended. Eek! “This won’t be a day we forget in a hurry!” gushed Laurel on her wedding day to Ashley, sounding the Soap Klaxon Of Doom and promptly making him forget the whole thing. So cruel! Meanwhile… “It’s not every day your parents get married,” observed their son, Arthur. No, sweetheart – just every 10 years or so. Kylie’s friendship with Freddie is very sweet, but we’ll happily give a tenner to the first…